Projects
Got one small repair staring at you from across the room? Pick the closest project below, read the whole card before you touch a tool, then work slowly enough that you can still remember where every screw came from.
My rule: if the job needs hidden wiring, hidden plumbing, gas, structure, permits, or heroic ladder work, the project has outgrown this little homepage.
Fix a Leaky Compression Faucet
Difficulty: Beginner | Time: 45-90 minutes | Gear: eye protection, towel, bucket
Tools and Materials
Adjustable wrench, Phillips and flat screwdrivers, replacement washer or cartridge, plumber's grease, rag, masking tape for protecting chrome.
Steps
- Turn off the hot and cold shutoff valves under the sink. Open the faucet to relieve pressure and prove the water is really off.
- Plug the drain so tiny screws do not escape to the underworld.
- Take a phone photo before disassembly. Future you, covered in plumber's grease, will appreciate the documentary evidence.
- Remove the handle cap and handle screw, then lift off the handle without forcing it sideways.
- Unscrew the packing nut and pull the stem straight out. Lay parts in order on a towel.
- Bring the worn washer or cartridge to the store so you match the shape, not just the hopeful vibe.
- Reassemble, turn water on slowly, and check for leaks around the handle and spout for a full minute.
What if the shutoff valve drips? Stop and close the main water valve only if you know where it is and can turn it back on safely. Otherwise, bucket under the drip and call help.
Call a pro if: valves will not shut off, pipes are corroded, the leak is inside the wall, or the faucet is tied to old brittle plumbing.
Patch a Small Drywall Hole
Difficulty: Beginner | Time: 2 short sessions plus drying | Gear: dust mask, eye protection
Tools and Materials
Putty knife, sanding sponge, self-adhesive patch or mesh tape, joint compound, primer, matching paint, drop cloth.
Steps
- Trim loose paper and brush away dust.
- Cover the hole with a patch or mesh tape, keeping it flat.
- Spread joint compound thinly past the patch edges. Feather the edges so there is no hard ridge to sand later.
- Let dry, sand lightly, then add a second wider coat if the patch still shows. Thin coats beat one big frosting glob.
- Prime the repair before painting so the finish does not flash shiny in the afternoon sun.
What if the wall is damp? Do not patch over moisture. The EPA mold guide is a better first stop than a bucket of joint compound.
Call a pro if: the wall is damp, moldy, soft, cracked in long lines, or may contain asbestos or lead paint in an older home.
Hang a Simple Wall Shelf
Difficulty: Beginner-intermediate | Time: 1-2 hours | Gear: eye protection, helper for long shelves
Tools and Materials
Stud finder, level, tape measure, pencil, drill, bits, screws, anchors rated for the load, shelf brackets, shelf board.
Steps
- Decide what the shelf will hold and choose brackets and anchors rated above that weight.
- Find studs and mark bracket locations. Whenever possible, screw brackets into studs; drywall alone is for light loads, not bowling trophies.
- Hold the shelf line level, mark holes, and drill pilot holes so the screws do not wander.
- Install anchors only where no stud is available and the load is light enough for them.
- Fasten brackets firmly, set the board, and check for wobble before loading.
What if the stud finder lies? Tap lightly, check from both directions, and test with a tiny pilot hole where the bracket will hide it. If you hit empty air, patch the dot and try again.
Call a pro if: the shelf will carry heavy tools, electronics, stone, plumbing, or anything over a crib, bed, or walkway.
Before You Sand an Old Wall
For homes that may have older paint, skim the EPA lead page before sanding, scraping, or drilling dusty holes. If testing or certified work is needed, that is not a defeat; that is the house telling you it has history.
