A Home handyman is a skilled generalist.

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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.

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