Home Improvement & Maintenance Tips
Owning a home in South Jersey comes with its unique set of challenges, from the seasonal weather changes to the wear and tear of daily life. Many homeowners frequently encounter common repair issues, such as leaky faucets, clogged gutters, squeaky doors, and drafty windows. These problems, while often small, can quickly escalate if not addressed. For instance, a dripping faucet not only wastes water but also increases utility bills, while clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and potential roof damage. Drafty windows and peeling paint compromise your home's energy efficiency and aesthetics while running toilets waste gallons of water daily.
Other common issues include cracked drywall, loose cabinet handles, faulty light fixtures, and creaky floors, all of which can impact the comfort and functionality of your home. While some of these repairs can be tackled with basic tools and DIY know-how, others require professional expertise to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. At Brandon The Handyman, we specialize in helping South Jersey homeowners address these challenges, offering expert handyman services to save you time, effort, and future headaches.
Whether it’s a small fix like tightening a cabinet handle or a larger project like repairing damaged drywall, we’re here to help. Contact us today to take the hassle out of home maintenance!
10 Common Home Repairs Every South Jersey Homeowner Faces and How to Fix Them
Owning a home in South Jersey comes with its unique challenges. From the seasonal weather changes to the wear and tear of everyday life, it’s common for homeowners to encounter repair needs. Fortunately, many of these issues are fixable with a little know-how—or the help of a reliable handyman. Here are the top 10 home repairs South Jersey homeowners face and practical advice on tackling them.
1. Leaky Faucets
The Problem: That annoying drip-drip-drip isn’t just a nuisance—it can waste gallons of water and hike up your water bill.
The Fix:
Replace the washer or O-ring in the faucet.
If the faucet is outdated, consider upgrading to a more efficient model.
When to Call a Pro: If replacing the parts doesn’t stop the leak or you’re unsure of the plumbing setup.
2. Clogged Gutters
The Problem: Leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water overflow and potential roof damage.
The Fix:
Use a ladder and gloves to clear out debris.
Install gutter guards to prevent future clogs.
When to Call a Pro: For high or hard-to-reach gutters, hiring a handyman can save you time and ensure safety.
3. Squeaky Doors
The Problem: Squeaky doors are common, especially in older homes with worn hinges.
The Fix:
Apply lubricant (like WD-40) to the hinges.
Tighten screws or replace damaged hinges if necessary.
When to Call a Pro: If the door is misaligned or sticking, it may require adjustments to the frame.
4. Drafty Windows
The Problem: Drafty windows increase energy bills and make your home uncomfortable.
The Fix:
Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulking.
Add thermal curtains for extra insulation.
When to Call a Pro: If windows are outdated or severely damaged, a handyman can help replace them with energy-efficient models.
5. Running Toilets
The Problem: A constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water.
The Fix:
Replace the flapper or adjust the float in the tank.
Check for leaks in the fill valve.
When to Call a Pro: If repairs don’t resolve the issue or the tank mechanisms are too old.
6. Peeling Paint
The Problem: Paint peeling off walls or ceilings is not only unsightly but can also expose surfaces to moisture damage.
The Fix:
Scrape off loose paint, sand the surface, and apply a fresh coat of primer and paint.
When to Call a Pro: For large areas or hard-to-reach spots like high ceilings.
7. Cracked Drywall
The Problem: Small cracks in drywall can appear over time due to settling or minor impacts.
The Fix:
Fill cracks with spackle or joint compound.
Sand smooth and repaint to match the surrounding area.
When to Call a Pro: For extensive damage, such as large holes or water-damaged drywall.
8. Loose Cabinet Handles
The Problem: Cabinet handles and knobs can become loose with regular use.
The Fix:
Tighten screws or replace stripped ones with slightly longer or thicker screws.
Use wood filler if the screw hole is too large.
When to Call a Pro: For cabinet door alignment issues or if hinges are damaged.
9. Faulty Light Fixtures
The Problem: Flickering or non-functional light fixtures can disrupt your home’s comfort and ambiance.
The Fix:
Check and replace bulbs.
Ensure the fixture is properly wired and connected.
When to Call a Pro: For wiring issues or fixture replacements requiring electrical work.
10. Creaky Floors
The Problem: Wooden floors often creak due to loose boards or shifting subflooring.
The Fix:
Sprinkle talcum powder or graphite powder between floorboards to reduce friction.
Secure loose boards with screws or nails.
When to Call a Pro: For widespread creaking or if floorboards need replacement.
Why Call a Handyman for These Repairs?
While some of these repairs are DIY-friendly, others require specialized tools, experience, or just more time than you have. A professional handyman can:
Handle multiple repairs in one visit.
Save you time and effort.
Ensure repairs are done correctly the first time.
Need Help with Home Repairs in South Jersey?
At Brandon The Handyman, we specialize in tackling common home repairs for homeowners in Voorhees, Cherry Hill, and surrounding areas. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, patching drywall, or addressing more complex issues, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today for a free quote and let us take the hassle out of home maintenance!
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