For the first time home repairer there are some basic tips that will save him or her time and money.
First: If it is electrical or plumbing seek expert advice! Of all the repairs these two are the most disastrous when something goes wrong. A simple mistake in plumbing can end up costing you hundreds of dollars to fix, while a small mistake in electrical repair could prove fatal, either from electrocution or fire. Rule of thumb; if you have to tear down a wall or go into an electrical junction box let a professional handle it.
Second: If it is not plumbing or electrical seek expert advice! Don't be afraid to ask! Most home improvement stores are chock full of people who have "been there and done that'! I've never met a professional who didn't want to talk about what he or she has done! Use their experience. In every job there are usually little tricks that experienced people know about that can make all the difference in installation and repair.
Third: For short term repairs use a long term solution. If a hinge finally breaks on a door, when you replace it; replace all the hinges at the same time. If one part of a fixture fails then it's a good bet that a similar part was stressed and may also fail. For an extra $3.00 splurge and replace the other parts, you will be glad that you did.
Fourth: Have a plan and plan ahead! If you know you have to fix a water leak be aware that you might have to shut off the water for several hours so stock up. Find out all the parts necessary to complete the job and have them on hand before you start.
Fifth: Have a back up. When you are at the store and you aren't sure if it is five 1/3 bolts, or six 1/2 bolts then buy both quantities and sizes. Almost all reputable hardware stores will allow you to return merchandise with a receipt (many will even without one). Nothing is more frustrating than having had the right part in your hand and finding out you have to go back for that one little piece.
Sixth: Rent rather than buy. If you are doing a one-time bathroom project, find out if you can rent that tile saw rather than purchase one that will end up in the back of your garage collecting dust.
These are some common sense tips that, if you keep them in mind, will translate into time spent actually working on the repair job instead of time spent in your car back and forth to the home improvement store or money spent to repair your repair job.
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