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10 Common Home Repairs You Should Leave to a Handyman

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10 Common Home Repairs You Should Leave to a Handyman

Let’s be honest. We all like to think we are handy around the house. But when was the last time you tried fixing something and ended up making it worse? That is why knowing the list of typical handyman services is more than just nice to know, it is essential. Sure, you could attempt a quick DIY, but not every job is a DIY task. Sometimes, calling a professional is the smartest choice for your wallet, safety, and sanity.

So, what are the common handyman tasks that a handyman can do for you? Let’s take a look at the most requested handyman services that every homeowner should consider leaving to a professional handyman. These tasks require experience, tools, and patience. The small mistakes you avoid today will save you a mountain of frustration tomorrow.

Electrical Repairs

Even if it is “just a light switch,” DIY electrical work is risky. Ever tried fiddling with wires and nearly shocked yourself? That is why “can a handyman do electrical work?” is a question we hear a lot. The answer is yes, if your handyman is trained. They can handle electrical repairs, install ceiling fans, swap out old fixtures, and manage switchboard wiring safely. Trying this yourself might save a few bucks today but could cost you a lot tomorrow in warranty protection and safety issues.

Plumbing Leaks and Repairs

A dripping faucet may seem harmless until it turns into a water damage prevention nightmare. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can a handyman do plumbing?” The answer is “yes”. A trained handyman can handle plumbing repairs, clogged drains, under-sink leak repair, and even fix a leaking toilet. They have the specialized tools and skills to stop small leaks before they become major structural problems. That is what makes professional plumbing less stressful.

Drywall Repairs

Tiny dents in drywall may appear simple, but getting a smooth, paint-ready finish is not. Your local handyman can manage drywall repair with precision, sanding, and finishing to restore your walls. Skipping this and doing it yourself often leads to visible seams and extra work. Knowing what can a handyman do without a license ensures you hire someone who knows how to patch up your wall without creating more work for you.

Appliance Repairs

Installing or fixing appliances like dishwashers or washing machines may seem plug-and-play. But anyone who has tried a washing machine repair knows it involves electrical, drainage, and water connections. A professional handyman handles appliance hookups correctly and prevents voiding warranties. So why risk a flood or a broken appliance when a simple call solves it all?

Tile and Grout Work

Ever tried fixing tile yourself and ended up with crooked lines? Exactly. That is why this is not a simple handyman job. Replacing broken tiles or repairing grout is another task better left to the experts. Poor installation can ruin the floor or wall appearance. A handyman skilled in tile installation and tile and grout work uses the right materials and precision. Your floors or bathrooms will look professional and last longer. 

Furniture Assembly

Some furniture looks easy on the box, but those IKEA wardrobes or modular shelves can be a nightmare. Professional handyman services save you hours of confusion with furniture assembly. These trained experts know the tricks to get everything safe, stable, and level. No more wobbly shelves or missing screws. That is a real time-saving benefit.

Door and Window Repairs

Squeaky doors, misaligned windows, or drafty entryways are common headaches that homeowners complain about. A handyman is trained to do door repairs, door replacement, window repair, or even new window installation, all without breaking a sweat. They handle locks, hinges, and weatherproofing so your home is not only secure but also energy-efficient. Trying this yourself often leads to more frustration and less energy efficiency down the line.

Painting and Wall Repairs

Painting may look easy, but achieving an even, flawless finish is not. A handyman handles painting, wall prep, minor wall repairs, and touch-ups with the right technique. They ensure surfaces are smooth, clean, and ready to impress. Your walls will look like new without the stress of uneven lines or dripping paint. It is one of those common handyman tasks that is best left to the professionals.

Hanging Fixtures and Wall Mounting

Mounting TVs, shelves, or heavy decor is about more than just looks. Incorrect mounting can ruin walls or even cause personal injury. Not something you would want to try, right? A handyman skilled in mounting TVs, and mounting shelves]ensures everything is safe, level, and secure. Why risk a cracked wall or falling shelf when a professional handyman can handle it in minutes?

Routine Maintenance Tasks

Most homeowners forget the small, preventive tasks that keep a house running smoothly. From seasonal filter cleaning to caulking, gutter cleaning, gutter repair, or minor deck repair, a handyman handles it all. These services save money, improve structural integrity, and reduce stress. Maintenance packages from a handyman are perfect for preventive maintenance that keeps your home safe and functional year after year.

When to Call a Handyman

So, when should you stop DIY and call a handyman? If you are unsure of your skills, lack specialized tools, or risk safety, it is time. Knowing different types of handyman services gives you clarity and peace of mind knowing the job is handled by someone who does it right. Small repairs, short fix, or long fix projects all benefit from professional assistance. Hiring a handyman is not just about time-saving, it reduces cost savings and ensures safety compliance, allowing you to handle home repairs more efficiently.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Handyman

It is common for homeowners to ask, “How much does a handyman charge per hour?” The truth is, the price varies depending on the task and duration. On average, it often ranges from $50 to $100 per hour for most small to medium jobs, while flat fees for specific tasks like mounting TVs, appliance hookups, or furniture assembly can range from $75 to $250 depending on complexity. A licensed handyman brings experience along with the right tools and know-how to get the job done correctly. Many also offer maintenance packages that bundle multiple services, providing long-term cost savings and extra peace of mind.

Conclusion

So, the next time you see a leaky faucet, a crooked shelf, or a patchy wall, think twice before reaching for your toolkit. A professional handyman ensures home improvement is stress-free, safe, and done right the first time.

If you need a reliable handyman, we at Santino’s A+ Handyman Service provide the best handyman services for all your home repair needs. From small fixes to larger projects, our team has the skills, the required handyman experience, and the right tools to get the job done efficiently and professionally. 

For more information or to get a quote, visit us at https://santinosaplushandymanservice.com/ and take the first step toward hassle-free home repairs today.

People Also Ask

A handyman covers plumbing repairs, electrical repairs, drywall repair, painting, furniture assembly, appliance hookups, wall mounting, deck repair, and general home repairs.

For small or routine jobs, a professional handyman is cost-effective and efficient. Larger tasks like major electrical or plumbing work may require licensed specialists.

Look for a licensed handyman, check reviews, ask for references, and ensure they have specialized tools to handle the job safely and efficiently.

10 Handyman Jobs You Probably Shouldn’t DIY

Posted on by admin

10 Handyman Jobs You Probably Shouldn’t DIY

DIY tutorials and weekend projects have made many homeowners feel confident about tackling their own repairs. While it’s true that small fixes like painting a single wall or replacing a cabinet handle are manageable, larger jobs are a different story. Certain home repairs require specialised handyman skills, proper tools, building code knowledge, and even permits.

Attempting these jobs yourself can lead to safety hazards, water damage, electrical fires, structural issues, or expensive repairs later. At Santino’s A Plus Handyman Service, we handle these tasks every day,  saving homeowners time, money, and stress.

Here are 10 handyman jobs you probably shouldn’t DIY and why professional help is always the better choice.

1. Plumbing Repairs and Changes

Plumbing is one of the most complex systems in any home. While replacing a showerhead or tightening a faucet handle may be simple, more advanced work should always be left to professionals. Jobs like moving fixtures, replacing pipes, installing water heaters, or repairing septic systems require permits, plumbing codes knowledge, and specialised tools.

DIY plumbing often results in leaks hidden behind walls, water waste, mold growth, or sewage backups. Even small oversights like cracked caulk or missing grout around tubs, showers, and sinks can allow water to seep into floors and drywall.

A professional handyman ensures proper installation, tight seals, correct drainage, and long-lasting results. Handyman services can also address leaky faucets, running toilets, and clogged drains quickly and efficiently, preventing expensive plumbing disasters.

2. Electrical Work

Electrical repairs are among the most dangerous DIY jobs. Even something that seems small, like adding outlets, upgrading switches, or replacing circuit breakers, can result in fire hazards, shocks, or overloaded circuits.

Electrical systems are heavily regulated, and most projects require permits, inspections, and licensed work. Improper wiring can invalidate insurance claims and create long-term safety issues.

Professional handyman and electrical services cover a wide range of tasks, including light fixture upgrades, ceiling fan installations, hard-wired system repairs, and central vacuum connections. Choosing a licensed handyman protects your home from electrical fires, electrocution risks, and costly rewiring later.

3. Deck Building

Decks are a popular way to expand outdoor living space, but building one isn’t as simple as laying boards. Elevated decks must meet strict building codes regarding joist spacing, railing height, and structural support. DIY deck building is one of the most common violations reported by inspectors.

Without the proper foundation, a deck can sag, tilt, or collapse. In addition, digging for posts without marking utilities can damage underground plumbing or electrical lines.

Handyman services ensure decks are constructed to code, anchored correctly to the home, and built with pressure-treated lumber and weather-resistant materials. A professional handyman also saves you weeks of labor by finishing the project quickly and efficiently.

4. Roof Repair

Your roof protects your entire home, yet it’s also one of the most dangerous places to attempt DIY repairs. Climbing ladders, balancing on angled surfaces, and handling materials at height create significant fall risks.

Roofing also involves more than replacing visible shingles. A handyman checks for water-damaged underlayment, cracked flashing, clogged vents, and poorly sealed plumbing stacks that run through the roof. Missed details can result in leaks that cause ceiling damage, drywall rot, and mold growth inside the home.

Professional roof repair ensures the job is done safely and thoroughly, extending the lifespan of your roof and preventing future costs.

5. Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Removing popcorn ceilings is labor-intensive and messy. The process requires scraping, sanding, patching divots, applying joint compound, priming, and painting multiple coats. Working overhead for hours on ladders adds physical strain and safety hazards.

Some older popcorn ceilings even contain asbestos, which requires certified removal. Attempting this DIY can spread harmful particles throughout the home.

A handyman service manages the entire process, from sealing off rooms and using protective equipment to delivering a smooth, professional finish. This saves homeowners days of cleanup and eliminates health risks.

6. Exterior House Painting

Painting a home’s exterior is a much bigger project than an indoor accent wall. It requires extensive prep work, including pressure washing, scraping old paint, sanding, caulking cracks, and applying primers. You’ll also need to paint soffits, trim, siding, and rake boards, often from ladders or scaffolding.

DIY exterior painting is not only dangerous but often short-lived if surfaces aren’t prepped correctly. Paint can peel, blister, or fade within a year, forcing you to redo the job.

Handyman painting services provide the right paint types, brushes, sprayers, and safety gear to ensure a long-lasting, attractive finish. Professionals can also identify related issues like rotting trim, leaking outdoor faucets, or loose siding during the project.

7. Installing Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures

Ceiling fan and light fixture installation combines electrical wiring with ladder work. While assembling the fixture may seem straightforward, securing it properly to a support bracket and wiring it safely is complex.

Improper installation can result in wobbly fans, sparks, or fixtures pulling out of the ceiling. A handyman ensures proper anchoring, balanced blades, and wiring that meets electrical codes.

Professional handyman services also provide upgrades for outdated or flickering lights, improving both the safety and the aesthetics of your home.

8.Door Replacement

Replacing a door might look simple, but precise alignment is key for security, insulation, and smooth operation. Poorly installed doors may drag, stick, or leave gaps that increase energy costs.

Projects like French doors, sliding glass doors, or storm doors require adjustments to frames, accurate measurements, and correct sealing. A handyman ensures the door fits flush, locks securely, and enhances your home’s appearance.

Handyman services also cover door hardware replacements, weatherstripping, and threshold adjustments, all of which contribute to efficiency and security.

9. Fencing Installation

Building a fence is labor-intensive and requires careful planning. Posts must be set deep in concrete, panels must be level, and property lines must be respected to avoid disputes.

DIY fences often lean, sag, or collapse because of improper installation. Without permits, you may also face fines if your fence doesn’t meet height or setback requirements.

Professional handyman services handle the entire fencing process, from securing permits to installing posts, panels, and gates correctly. They also ensure the project avoids damaging underground plumbing, sprinkler systems, or utility lines.

10. Wall Hangings, Drywall Repair, and Finishing Touches

Small finishing tasks can have big consequences when done incorrectly. Hanging TVs, mirrors, or shelves requires finding studs and using the right anchors. Mistakes can damage drywall or puncture hidden wiring and plumbing lines.

Ignoring drywall dents, cracked caulk, missing grout, or loose trim can allow moisture into walls, leading to mold and structural damage.

Handyman services cover drywall repair, baseboard repair, crown molding installation, trim upgrades, and painting touch-ups. These finishing details make a home look well-maintained while preventing hidden problems from spreading.

Why DIY Isn’t Always the Best Choice

DIY home repairs may feel like a money-saver, but in reality, the wrong approach can be far more costly. Attempting complex jobs yourself risks:

Safety hazards:  shocks, electrocution, falls, mold exposure

Legal risks:  failed inspections, fines, permit violations

Expensive repairs: water damage, electrical fires, or collapsed structures

At Santino’s A Plus Handyman Service, we bring the expertise, tools, and code knowledge needed for safe, reliable results. Our handyman services cover everything from plumbing and electrical work to roofing, drywall repair, painting, and fencing.

The Smarter Choice for Your Home Repairs

DIY is great for simple touch-ups, but when it comes to plumbing, electrical, roofing, fencing, or drywall repair, attempting the work yourself can cost more in the long run. Professional handyman services provide the right tools, skills, and knowledge of building codes to ensure every job is safe, efficient, and long-lasting.

At Santino’s A Plus Handyman Service, we take pride in handling the home improvement projects you shouldn’t DIY. From electrical upgrades and plumbing services to fence installation, drywall patching, and ceiling repairs, our team delivers reliable results that protect your home, save you money, and give you peace of mind.

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FAQs on Handyman Jobs You Shouldn’t DIY

Basic tasks like painting a small wall, changing a showerhead, or tightening drawer slides are safe. Anything involving plumbing, electrical, roofing, or major structural changes should be left to professionals.

Plumbing mistakes can cause leaks, mold, sewage backups, and hidden water damage. Even a small caulking error can create thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Yes. Projects like deck building, electrical upgrades, and major plumbing work typically require permits. Skipping them risks fines, inspections, or demolition orders.

Preventive repairs like fixing leaky faucets, repairing drywall holes, sealing grout, and upgrading electrical fixtures save money by stopping bigger issues before they start.

We provide affordable, reliable handyman services for plumbing, electrical, painting, drywall, fencing, and more. Our team ensures safety, compliance, and lasting results.

What is a Handyman? All You Need to Know

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Are piled up home repairs stealing your weekends? Let’s face it, dripping faucets and faulty fixtures to damaged walls and peeling paint are small issues around the house that quickly become a source of frustration. And though DIY might seem tempting, it often leaves you in a worse position than where you first started from. 

That’s where a handyman can help you. But what exactly is a handyman and what good is one? This blog attempts to define what a handyman is, what services he can provide, and how hiring one can make home maintenance and repairs more convenient and cost-effective.

What is a Handyman?

A handyman, also known as a fixer, handyperson or handyworker, is defined as a person who has expertise in a wide variety of small home repair jobs around the house. A handyman is someone who can tackle a wide range of tasks around your home, often checking off items from your never-ending to-do list. Whether it is fixing or installing doors and windows, handling minor painting jobs, repairing carpentry or drywall, or performing basic plumbing and electrical work, a handyman is well-equipped to manage many common household needs.

Think of a handyman as a general practitioner in medicine; they are skilled in many areas and can resolve a variety of everyday issues. However, for more complex or specialized problems, they will typically recommend calling in a licensed expert such as a plumber, electrician, roofer, or general contractor.

Common Services Offered by Handymen

A handyman is well-equipped to handle a variety of common household tasks. According to a poll result, below are some of the most common services a handyman is called upon to provide.

General Home Repairs

Every home requires ongoing upkeep to function efficiently. A handyman brings practical expertise to address those small but important issues that affect daily comfort and long-term durability.

Includes:

  • Leaky faucets
  • Door adjustments
  • Replacing light bulbs
  • Window repairs

Painting & Wall Repairs

Walls do more than define space; they set the tone for your entire home. Handymen help restore and refresh surfaces, giving your interiors and exteriors a clean, well-maintained appearance that enhances both aesthetics and value.

Includes:

  • Wallpaper removal
  • Drywall patching
  • Texturing walls

Light Electrical Work

A well-functioning home relies on dependable electrical features. Without getting into complex installations, a handyman can safely manage essential tasks that support comfort, lighting, and modern home conveniences.

Includes:

  • Outlet replacement 
  • Dimmer switches
  • Outdoor lighting

Plumbing Fixes

Reliable plumbing is key to a healthy and comfortable household. Handymen handle minor plumbing concerns efficiently, helping prevent leaks, blockages, and water-related damage before they become bigger issues.

Includes:

  • Toilet repairs
  • Shower head replacement
  • Sewer line checks

Carpentry & Woodwork

Wooden features add timeless character to a home. With attention to detail, handymen perform light carpentry work that maintains the charm and functionality of everything from trim and molding to custom shelving and furniture.

Includes:

  • Custom shelving
  • Baseboard installation
  • Molding and trim

The Difference Between a Handyman and a Licensed Contractor

When it comes to home improvement and maintenance, knowing who to call can be just as important as the work itself. People tend to confuse a “handyman” and a “licensed contractor” as the same thing. However, while both handymen and licensed contractors provide valuable services, their roles, qualifications, and scopes of work differ significantly. 

The main differences between a general contractor and a handyperson are their licensing requirements. They also differ in the size and types of jobs they work on.

A licensed contractor typically works on larger projects. They can build new homes, carry out major renovations, or make big changes like remodeling a kitchen or expanding a living room. Contractors usually oversee the entire project, making sure everything runs smoothly.

On the other hand, a handyman is ideal for smaller jobs that don’t require a lot of technical expertise. A handyman typically takes care of smaller repairs and everyday home maintenance. These tasks might include fixing a leaky faucet, painting a room, or repairing a door.

When to Call a Handyman vs. a Contractor

Both handymen and contractors serve essential roles in home maintenance and renovation, but knowing when to call a handyman versus a contractor is key to ensuring your home projects are handled efficiently and correctly. For smaller, routine repairs or maintenance tasks, a handyman should be your go-to choice, offering a quick and affordable solution. 

However, for larger, more specialized projects that require expert knowledge or legal compliance, a licensed contractor is recommended. They ensure the work is done safely, up to code, and with the proper expertise. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right professional for each task, ensuring your home gets the care it needs.

Get the Right Handyman for You

Tired of your home repairs piling up? Let the expert handymen at Santino’s A+ Handyman Service take the stress off your shoulders. As a trusted handyman contractor, we provide professional handyman services tailored to meet the unique needs of homeowners. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more involved project, our reliable team is here to ensure your home stays in top condition.