The bathroom is a sanctuary, a place for rejuvenation and self-care. However, it’s also one of the most frequently used rooms in the home, which makes it susceptible to wear and tear. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or crumbling grout, bathroom issues are inevitable. But before you dial up the experts, why not roll up your sleeves and tackle some of these problems yourself?
In the points below, we’ll explore the top five bathroom repairs that you can easily handle on your own. A little initiative goes a long way in preserving the aesthetics and functionality of your lavatory. For those more challenging repairs, consider contacting professionals for bathroom repair in Malvern.
- Fixing a Leaky Faucet
Symptoms:Drip, drip, drip. The constant sound of water droplets can be agonising, not to mention wasteful.
Solution:
- Identify the type of faucet: Different faucets have different mechanisms – compression, ceramic disc, ball type, or cartridge. Understanding the type can guide you in the right direction.
- Turn off the water supply: Usually, you’ll find a knob under the sink.
- Disassemble the faucet: This often involves removing the handle and other components. Keep track of parts and their order for reassembly.
- Replace the O-ring or washer: Generally, leaks are due to worn-out O-rings or washers. Replace these, reassemble the faucet, and test.
- Unclogging the Drain
Symptoms: Water pooling around your feet during a shower is an unpleasant experience and indicates a clogged drain.
Solution:
- Remove obstructions: Take out visible obstructions like hair or soap scum manually.
- Use a plunger: A few firm pushes should usually clear minor clogs.
- Chemical drain cleaner: For stubborn clogs, a chemical drain cleaner can be effective. Follow the instructions carefully.
- Repairing Tile Grout
Symptoms:Cracked or missing grout not only looks unsightly but also jeopardises the integrity of your tiles.
Solution:
- Clean the area: Remove loose grout and clean the area thoroughly.
- Mix new grout: Follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Apply the grout: Use a rubber float to apply the grout at a 45-degree angle.
- Seal the grout: Once dry, apply a silicone-based sealer to protect against future wear.
- Replacing a Showerhead
Symptoms:Low water pressure or an old, corroded showerhead calls for a replacement.
Solution:
- Remove old showerhead: Use a wrench to unscrew the old showerhead.
- Clean threads: Remove old Teflon tape and clean the threads.
- Apply new Teflon tape: Wrap new Teflon tape around the threads.
- Install new showerhead: Screw on manually first, then tighten with a wrench.
- Sealing a Leaky Toilet Base
Symptoms: If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it’s time to reseal it.
Solution:
- Turn off water and drain toilet: Shut off the water supply and flush to drain.
- Loosen bolts: Loosen the bolts securing the toilet to the floor.
- Remove old seal: Lift the toilet carefully and remove the old wax ring.
- Apply new seal: Place a new wax ring and reinstall the toilet. Tighten the bolts, reconnect the water supply, and test for leaks.
Ready to get started?
Empowering yourself with basic repair skills not only saves money, but also brings immense satisfaction. However, some repairs may be beyond the reach of a DIY approach – for those situations, don’t hesitate to seek expert assistance for a thorough and professional solution.Happy repairing!