A Home handyman is a skilled generalist.
A home handyman is a skilled generalist who can perform a wide range of maintenance, repair, and improvement tasks around the house. While their expertise may vary, they typically handle smaller-scale projects that don’t require specialized licenses (like electrical or plumbing work in some areas). Here’s a breakdown of common jobs a handyman can do:
1. General Repairs and Maintenance:
- Fixing leaky faucets and repairing minor plumbing issues.
- Replacing door handles, locks, and hinges.
- Patching drywall and repairing minor wall damage.
- Caulking windows, bathtubs, sinks, and showers.
- Gutter cleaning and repair.
- Painting touch-ups or small-scale painting projects.
- Window and screen repairs.
- Minor appliance repairs, like fixing doors on dishwashers or tightening knobs on stoves.
2. Carpentry:
- Building or assembling furniture (bookshelves, desks, cabinets, etc.).
- Repairing wooden fences, decks, and gates.
- Installing shelves, closet organizers, or curtain rods.
- Repairing trim and molding.
3. Electrical Work (Non-specialized):
- Replacing light bulbs or fixtures.
- Installing ceiling fans.
- Installing or replacing light switches and outlets.
- Mounting TVs and installing basic home theater setups.
- Replacing smoke detector batteries.
4. Plumbing (Non-specialized):
- Unclogging drains.
- Fixing running toilets.
- Installing or replacing faucets, showerheads, and garbage disposals.
- Replacing or repairing toilet flappers, handles, and seats.
5. Outdoor Work:
- Pressure washing decks, driveways, and siding.
- Repairing broken pavers or stepping stones.
- Painting fences or sheds.
- Lawn maintenance (in some cases), including trimming hedges, pruning, and weeding.
- Cleaning patios, decks, and outdoor furniture.
6. Installations:
- Hanging pictures, mirrors, and artwork.
- Installing blinds, shades, or curtains.
- Mounting shelves or racks.
- Installing weather stripping or insulation for doors and windows.
- Installing mailboxes or house numbers.
7. Flooring:
- Repairing or replacing tiles.
- Fixing squeaky floors.
- Installing laminate or vinyl flooring in small areas.
- Regrouting or resealing tile.
8. Miscellaneous:
- Moving furniture or helping with light home organization.
- Childproofing (installing baby gates, outlet covers, etc.).
- Hanging holiday lights or decorations.
- Assembling outdoor furniture, playgrounds, or sheds.
Jobs Handymen Might Not Be Able to Do:
While handymen can tackle many jobs, some tasks may require a licensed professional, such as:
- Major electrical work, like rewiring or installing new circuits.
- Large-scale plumbing projects, such as installing new water lines or replacing sewer pipes.
- Structural repairs to a home.
- HVAC repairs or installation.
- Roofing repairs or replacements.
If the job requires specialized training or permits, a licensed contractor may be necessary. However, for most minor home repairs and improvements, a handyman can be an affordable and convenient solution.