# 5 Simple DIY Fixes Every Homeowner Should Know
Being a homeowner in Portland means dealing with unexpected repairs — leaking faucets, loose door handles, squeaky hinges, or drywall dents. The good news? Many of these issues are easy to fix on your own, even if you have zero experience.
Here are **five simple DIY repairs** that can save you time and money.
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## 1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water every month. In most cases, the issue is a worn-out rubber washer or O-ring.
**Quick fix:** - Turn off the water supply - Remove the handle - Replace the washer - Tighten everything back
It’s a 10-minute job and costs less than $5.
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## 2. Patching Small Drywall Holes Whether caused by door handles, moving furniture, or wall anchors — small wall holes are super common.
**What you need:** - Spackling paste - Putty knife - Sanding sponge
Apply, smooth it out, let it dry, sand lightly, and paint. Perfect walls again!
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## 3. Quieting Squeaky Door Hinges A squeaky hinge can make your home sound like a haunted house.
**Fix in 30 seconds:** spray WD-40 or silicone lubricant on the hinge pins. Open and close the door a few times — done.
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## 4. Resetting a Tripped Breaker When an outlet or light stops working, it’s often a tripped breaker.
Steps: 1. Open the breaker panel 2. Look for a switch that’s not fully in the ON position 3. Flip it OFF → then back ON
This solves 80% of “dead outlet” calls I get.
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## 5. Replacing a Showerhead A new showerhead improves water pressure and saves water.
**How to replace:** - Unscrew the old showerhead - Clean the threads - Wrap Teflon tape - Screw on a new showerhead
Takes 2–3 minutes.
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## Final Tip If you ever feel unsure about electrical, plumbing, or structural repairs — call a professional. Some tasks are safer (and cheaper) to let a handyman handle correctly the first time.
If you're in Portland or Vancouver and need help with home repairs, I’m always happy to assist!