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.