Say goodbye to delays! Discover simple fixes for irritating household problems that you won’t believe you didn’t tackle sooner.
Fixing a Running Toilet
Is your toilet constantly running? The culprit is often a leaky rubber flapper that allows water to flow from the tank to the bowl.
Fortunately, there’s a simple and inexpensive fix for this issues. To confirm that the flapper is the culprit, drop some food coloring into the tank and wait a few minutes.
If you notice the color seeping into the bowl, it’s time to head to the hardware store for a new flapper.
Repairing Damaged Window Screens
Repairing torn window screens can be a simple task, and there are a few different options depending on the size of the tear or the condition of the mesh.
For small tears or holes, clear nail polish can be an effective solution. Applying a thin layer of clear nail polish on both sides of the tear can help bond the screen back together. Make sure to let it dry completely before using the screen again.
If you have larger rips or tears, you can use window screen repair tape or a repair patch. Window screen repair tape is a self-adhesive tape specifically designed for repairing window screens. Simply cut a piece of tape larger than the tear and apply it to the damaged area, ensuring that it covers the entire tear. Press it firmly to ensure good adhesion.
Alternatively, you can use a repair patch, which is typically a piece of screen material with an adhesive backing. Cut the patch to a size that covers the tear and affix it to the damaged area, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Both window screen repair tape and repair patches can usually be found at hardware stores or online retailers like Amazon.
If the mesh is severely damaged and beyond repair, you may need to replace the entire screen. You can purchase a window screen replacement kit from your local hardware store. These kits typically include a roll of screen mesh and the necessary components for installation, such as a spline and a spline tool. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to remove the old screen and install the new one.
Remember, safety is important when working with tools and materials. Always take appropriate precautions and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturers to avoid any potential issues.
Patching Picture Holes
Want to hide unsightly holes left behind by picture frames? Fill them up with premixed spackling using a putty knife.
Once it dries, smoothen the spot with a small sanding sponge. If you don’t have the original paint color, don’t worry.
Simply bring a sample of the wall color to any paint store, and they can match it for you.
Resolving Sticky Locks
When faced with a sticky keyhole, lubrication is essential to address the issues and restore its smooth operation. However, it’s crucial to select the appropriate lubricant to prevent attracting dirt and worsening the problem.
Commonly used liquid lubricants like WD-40 or spray silicone can leave behind residues that attract dirt and debris, leading to recurring sticky keyhole issues. It’s advisable to refrain from using such lubricants for keyholes.
Instead, powdered graphite offers an excellent solution for lubricating keyholes. Graphite serves as a dry lubricant that doesn’t attract dirt and provides long-lasting lubrication. You can conveniently find powdered graphite online, including on platforms like Amazon.
To apply powdered graphite, utilize a small nozzle or the included graphite applicator, if provided. Insert the nozzle into the keyhole and gently squeeze a small amount of graphite powder inside. Subsequently, insert and withdraw the key several times to evenly distribute the powder and allow it to coat the internal components of the lock. This effectively reduces friction and facilitates smooth key turning.
Always ensure to follow the instructions provided with the selected powdered graphite product and take appropriate precautions while applying it.
In addition to the keyhole, it’s also a good idea to apply a small amount of powdered graphite on the latch or other moving parts of the lock mechanism to ensure overall smooth operation.
Remember to follow the instructions provided with the powdered graphite product you choose and take appropriate precautions while applying it.
*The information is for reference only.
