5 Cheap Do-It-Yourself Home Repairs

Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.

Image Not Available

For many, the lousy economy means putting off major home improvement projects. But no matter how tight money is, there are simple projects you can’t afford not to do.

  1. For example, your air filters. According to Angie’s list, 60% of heating and A/C service calls are due to dirty filters: they also cost energy. Change or clean them monthly.
  2. A leaky faucet can cost you: if it’s cold water, 25 dollars year. Hot? 25 dollars a month! So fix leaky faucets and running toilets: it’s usually cheap and easy.
  3. Check the caulking around your tub and shower. That’s what keeps mold away and your drywall dry. And caulk is a lot cheaper than new drywall and tile.
  4. And while you’ve got that caulk out, check the weatherproofing on your windows and doors. Use a candle to see where air is leaking: seal off those places and cut your energy bill by up to 10% a month.
  5. Finally, take the time to go around your house and inspect your electrical outlets, light switches and smoke detectors. Bad wiring can cause fires… smoke detectors save lives.

Bottom Line? There are simple repairs you can do this weekend that could save you money… even your life. Not handy? There’s no shortage of laid-off people out there that are. Help one and help yourself.

Get smarter with your money!

Want the best money-news and tips to help you make more and spend less? Then sign up for the free Money Talks Newsletter to receive daily updates of personal finance news and advice, delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for our free newsletter today.