Page 24 - Real Estate Now Sept-Oct 2021

Easy Must-Know DIY Home Repairs

Gord Brown courtesy REALTOR.ca
hether it’s a hole from mounting hardware, or discovering a torn screen, minor damage and everyday wear-
and-tear in our homes is a fact of life. Despite the rising popularity of DIY, not everyone feels comfortable
Wmaking their own repairs, opting to employ professionals or family and friends, instead. Before starting
your online search for a “local handyperson,” let’s look at eight easy repairs you can do around your home.

Repair or replace window screens
Small holes in a screen can be corrected in moments using a screen
patch kit, while larger tears require a screen replacement kit. Nylon
screen replacement kits are the easiest to install and contain a roll of
nylon screen, spline (the vinyl cord which secures the screen inside the
frame), and a spline roller (used to push the spline and screen into place).
Click to watch a video by Ace Hardware as they walk you through both a
screen patch and replacement.

Fix squeaky hinges
A few drops—or sprays—of lubricating oil makes a quick fix for noisy door hinges. But, if that doesn’t
do the trick, place a shim or wedge under the door for stability, and remove the hinge pins. Wipe each
pin with steel wool, then replace and apply oil. Your door should operate smoothly (and silently) again.
Replace door knobs and locks

Damaged or aging door knobs can be replaced with a new one using a screwdriver or electric driver
in about five minutes. While new knobs come with detailed installation instructions, click to watch the
video by Pretty Handy Girl and see just how quick and easy this job is.

Patch drywall holes

Small holes (¼ inch or less) in drywall (also called gypsum board) from old
hooks, or small dents from furniture on moving day can quickly be corrected
using a putty knife and spackle. Fill the hole using the putty knife and spackle,
then allow it to dry completely. Sand it down lightly and repaint the area (if
necessary).

A drywall patch kit is best to handle larger holes up to 4 inches (10 cm) and
typically cost less than $15. Larger holes require a sturdier material to actually
bridge the gap and hold the repair for a long period of time. Follow the
instructions included with the kit for the best results.

Replace weather stripping
The weather stripping around doors and windows deteriorates over time, so it’s important to replace them before
they affect heating and cooling costs. You’ll generally need a flathead screwdriver and a utility knife or scissors, along
with the replacement stripping.
Click to watch a video from House Improvements and see how you can replace your door’s weather stripping with
ease.
Windows require a little more work as they need to be removed altogether and may have one of a variety of stripping

24 | REAL ESTATE NOW | denise@BCislandhomes.ca