House Repair Tips, Costs & DIY Guides
Got a leaky tap, a cracked wall or a sagging roof? You’re not alone. Homeowners across the UK face the same everyday repair problems, and the good news is you don’t have to call a professional for every little issue. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice you can act on right now, plus clear cost expectations when you do need a trade.
Common Repairs You’ll Face
Foundation cracks are often the scariest thing to see. A hairline crack in a concrete slab can be normal settlement, but a wide, horizontal crack usually means serious movement. Check the width with a ruler – if it’s wider than 5 mm you should get a structural engineer’s opinion. The repair cost can range from £200 for a simple epoxy fill to £3,500 for a pier‑and‑beam solution, depending on depth and access.
Roof leaks tend to pop up after heavy rain or when the roof is over a decade old. First, locate the source by looking for water stains on the ceiling and tracing them up to the roof. Small shingle gaps can be patched with roofing sealant for under £30. Larger issues, like damaged flashing or rotten decking, typically cost £500‑£1,200 to fix.
Bathroom remodels don’t have to drain your savings. Start by planning the order: demolition, plumbing rough‑in, tiling, then fixtures. Re‑using existing plumbing reduces labour. A mid‑range bathroom upgrade (tiles, vanity, shower) averages £7,000, but a DIY approach can shave 30‑40% off that price.
Plumbing emergencies – a burst pipe or blocked drain – demand quick action. Shut off the main supply, then use a pipe‑clamp or epoxy putty as a temporary fix. A professional call-out usually starts at £80, plus hourly rates of £45‑£70. Knowing how to turn off valves can save you from flood damage.
Saving Money on House Repairs
Plan ahead. Seasonal maintenance (cleaning gutters in spring, checking boiler pressure in autumn) catches problems early when fixes are cheap. For bigger jobs, get three quotes. Many tradespeople will match a competitor’s price if you ask.
Do it yourself where you feel confident. Simple tasks like silicone sealing, replacing a tap washer or fitting a new light switch are one‑hour jobs with minimal tool cost. YouTube tutorials from reputable sources can guide you step‑by‑step.
Consider bulk purchasing. Buying a set of replacement tiles, a bundle of pipe fittings or a pack of roofing battens from a local supplier often drops the unit price by 10‑15%.
Finally, keep a repair fund. Setting aside £100‑£200 each month builds a buffer that prevents you from scrambling for cash when a major issue appears.
House repair doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right knowledge, a bit of planning and the occasional professional help, you can keep your home safe, comfortable and within budget. Need a hand? McNeil Plumbing & Construction Services are just a call away for any repair that feels out of your depth.
