DIY Home Repairs That Save You Money
By The Deals Editor · Published 10 June 2026 · 4 min read
Calling a tradesperson for every small job adds up fast. Many of the most common household repairs are well within reach for anyone willing to spend an hour learning and another hour doing. Here's where to start.
Bleeding a radiator
A cold spot at the top of a radiator means trapped air. Bleeding it takes three minutes and a radiator key. Turn off the heating, hold a cloth under the valve, turn the key anti-clockwise until you hear hissing, wait for water to appear, then close it off. That's the entire job. A radiator key costs under a pound.
Fixing a dripping tap
Most dripping taps need a new washer or ceramic cartridge — a part that costs less than £5. The job requires turning off the water supply (usually under the sink), unscrewing the tap head, replacing the component, and reassembling. Fiddly the first time; straightforward every time after.
Unblocking a drain
A drain plunger handles most sink blockages. For more stubborn ones, a drain snake reaches blockages further down the pipe. Chemical unblockers work for grease and soap buildup but are less effective for hair, where a drain claw or snake is the better tool.
Resealing a bath or shower
Old silicone sealant goes mouldy and looks terrible. Remove it with a silicone remover spray and scraper, clean the surface thoroughly, then apply fresh anti-mould silicone. The technique matters: masking tape on both sides, one smooth pass with a wet finger, peel the tape immediately while wet.
Draught-proofing doors and windows
Self-adhesive foam or rubber strips around door and window frames make a measurable difference to heat retention — and therefore bills. It takes under an hour per door and the improvement in comfort is immediate.
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Masterplug Radiator Bleed Key (5 pack)keep one in every room
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Draper Drain Plungerheavy duty, works on sinks and baths
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Faithfull Drain Snake 5mreaches blockages a plunger can't
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Everbuild Sanitary Silicone Sealant Whiteanti-mould, stays white
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Exitex Draught Excluder Foam Tape 5mfits most door and window frames
Frequently asked questions
How much can DIY home repairs save?
Tradespeople typically charge £50–150 per callout before any parts. Bleeding radiators, resealing baths, unblocking drains, and draught-proofing are all jobs that take under an hour and cost under £10 in materials. Over a year, tackling these yourself easily saves £300–500.
When should I call a professional?
Always call a qualified electrician for any work beyond changing fittings. Call a plumber for anything involving pipe replacement or boiler work. Gas work must always be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer — no exceptions.
Is silicone sealant difficult to apply neatly?
The masking tape trick makes a significant difference. Apply tape on both surfaces 2–3mm from the joint, apply the silicone, smooth with a wet finger in one continuous pass, then peel the tape immediately before the silicone skins over. It takes practice but the result looks professional.
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