Home Repairs: Knowing When To Do It Yourself

In these tough times, "Do-It-Yourself" is a tempting way to go for many homeowners looking to save a few dollars on anything from dripping faucet to running toilets.

The savings can add up in a hurry when you don't have to call a repairman, especially for things like painting, plumbing and appliance repair.

There are some home repairs, of course, that an unskilled homeowner should avoid, among them situations where having heavy equipment makes the job go much better, especially outdoors.

Many household repairs and projects can be tackled by a do-it-yourselfer who takes the time to learn what's required. The Internet is great for learning what to do and how to do it.

When taking on a project, begin by finding out where in your home you turn off the water and gas, and how the circuit breakers work. If you need a professional to show you, hire one.

Some of the jobs a do-it-yourselfer can learn include repairing drywall, replacing a deadbolt, or installing a new light fixture or ceiling fan.

Good rule of thumb: Avoid jobs where you could injure yourself or damage property. Other than that, do your homework, and go for it. Happy repairs!