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DIY Home Care—Not So Hard

Homeowners only need a few simple tools and a little know-how

By Eleanor Villforth,  Newser User

Posted Apr 8, 2008 4:04 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Homeowners can save big bucks on maintenance and keep their houses shipshape by mastering 10 simple skills, Allen Norwood observes for McClatchy Newspapers:

  1. Swap out your door locks: Remove a few bolts and screws and easily replace an existing lock for a new one.
  2. Become familiar with your filters: Note the size of your air-conditioning and furnace filters, where they're located and how to change them.

  1. Know how to cut the flow: Locate the main water cutoff (generally in a utility room or at your water tank); knowing how to close the gas valve is important, too.
  2. Zero in on the studs: If you're hanging something heavy, you can use the "tap-tap-tap routine" or look for finishing nails in the baseboard—they're in studs.
  3. Install a ceiling fan: It may take a few hours to complete this popular upgrade; don't forget to turn off the power at the breaker box.
Click the link below for the full list.

No more excuses: tasks like hanging hollow-wall anchors are simple to master.
No more excuses: tasks like hanging hollow-wall anchors are simple to master.   (KRT Photos)
With a few tools bought at stores like Lowe's or Home Depot, homeowners can easily make repairs and do simple upkeep.
With a few tools bought at stores like Lowe's or Home Depot, homeowners can easily make repairs and do simple upkeep.   (Getty Images)
Do-it-yourself repairs can save homeowners cash.
Do-it-yourself repairs can save homeowners cash.   (KRT Photos)
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Home-repair advice: This Old House
thisoldhouse.com

Home-repair advice: Lowe's
lowes.com

 
home improvement • list • repair • homeownership • home renovation • utility tools • maintenance

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