Living solo? Here are seven things you can fix at home

A woman's home is her sanctuary, a place where she creates, rejuvenates and nurtures her dreams. Thus, mastering the art of home maintenance is a valuable one, especially if you live solo or with your children.

Left with little choice, you become the handywoman, the architect and the curator of your living space. This can be both very empowering and daunting at the same time. Instead of giving up or constantly calling the caretaker, here are a few skills you can learn and do easily all by yourself.

Unclogging a drain: A clogged sink or shower drain can be annoying, but fear not! You can tackle this issue with a few simple tools. Start by removing visible debris from the drain cover. Then, use a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blockage. For added effectiveness, mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar and pour it down the drain before flushing with hot water.

Fixing a running toilet: A running toilet is not just a water waster, it can lead to high water bills. To fix it, remove the tank lid and check the flapper. If it's not sealing properly, it's likely the culprit. Adjust the chain length or if necessary, replace the flapper. If the issue persists, it might be a faulty fill valve that needs replacing. Now you can call a plumber.

Patching holes: Accidents happen and wall holes from moving furniture or hanging pictures are common. To repair them, all you need is some spackling paste, a putty knife and sandpaper. Fill the hole with spackling paste, smooth it with the putty knife (which you can buy at a hardware store), and sand it once it's dry. You can then touch up the paint to match your wall's colour.

Installing shelves: Adding shelves can enhance both storage and aesthetics. Measure and mark where you want to install the shelves ensuring they are level. Use wall anchors and screws to secure them. This DIY project allows you to showcase your favourite decor items or create functional storage space.

Replacing a doorknob: If you have a loose or broken doorknob, replacing it is a straightforward task. Remove the screws from the old knob using a screwdriver and take it off. Then, fit the new knob in place and secure it with screws. It's a quick fix that enhances both safety and functionality.

Replace a light fixture: Upgrading or replacing a light fixture can instantly transform a room. Turn off the power, remove the old fixture and install the new one. It's a small change that can make a big impact on your home's ambience.

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Assemble furniture: If you have purchased flat-pack furniture, do not be discouraged because you can assemble it yourself. Most furniture comes with clear instructions and all you need are basic tools. Grab what you have, pour yourself a glass of wine and start piecing together your masterpiece.

Remember that it's perfectly okay to seek help for complex issues or when you're unsure about a repair. However, by learning how to do these simple DIY fixes you will not only save time and money but also gain a sense of self-reliance.