Four easy DIY tips to spruce up your home this spring and save on future repairs
SPRING is the perfect time to take on jobs around the home.
Tackling projects yourself can save on the cost of using an expensive tradesperson and prevent more expensive work down the line.
Here are some easy fixes.
RESEAL FRAMES: Replacing doors, windows or frames can cost thousands of pounds but you could avoid this outlay by working on any wood that has gone rotten over winter.
Just sort any gaps with filler. A tube of ready-mixed wood filler costs £2.99 from The Range and is easy to use.
CLEAR GUTTERS: It’s a good time to clear gutters of leaves that have built up over winter, as well as checking your roof for damaged tiles, both of which can cause leaks.
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You will need a sturdy ladder and to follow safety precautions to do the job.
It’s worth asking on neighbourhood groups if anyone has one you can borrow, or app Olio offers a place for communities to lend tools, such as ladders.
You could also consider renting. B&Q and other trade sites have plenty of options for hire.
FIX UP: Repair fences damaged by winter storms and freezing temperatures to avoid a bill for a full replacement.
The parts of wooden fences most prone to rot are the post sections buried underground, which will pull down the entire fence if not caught in time.
If yours has become loose, use a concrete repair spur to secure it.
These can be bought for £10-£20 from stores such as Wickes.
There is a useful step-by-step guide on how to repair wooden fences on B&Q’s website.
TACKLE PLUMBING: With temperatures now rising, you can start to turn the heating off, making it a good time to address plumbing issues such as bleeding radiators or reinsulating pipes.
Again, B&Q has a guide on how to do these types of jobs.
If you do need a professional, lower demand for plumbers as we head out of winter can mean more competitive prices for work.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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