Tips for tackling four of the most common bathroom problems on your own, and when to call in an expert.
At one time or another, most of us have been hit with a bathroom repair bill that causes more waterworks than the plumber fixed. While some problems require the services of an expert, there are many common repairs you can tackle yourself. Here are four quick fixes for common problems that will allow you to save expensive house calls for the real emergencies.
Running toilet
The float is the plastic ball that hangs in your toilet tank (or, in newer toilets, the cylinder of plastic around the fill tube that rises and falls with the water). It determines the water level in your tank. If the level is too high, your toilet will run non-stop. If it's an old-style float, you may be able to fix it by just bending the metal arm the float is attached to so that the float rides lower in the tank. Quite often, though, the problem is a leaky float or float valve. You can buy a new float valve, which comes with a new float (and usually includes directions for installation) and put it in yourself -- just be sure to shut off the water supply to your toilet first. This is almost as easy as replacing the float only, which is a matter of unscrewing the old one and screwing the new one on. If you are not confident about doing the repair yourself, call a plumber.
Clogged sink
When you have a clogged drain your first instinct may be to reach for a chemical drain cleaner. Well, think again. Often the plunger will do the trick. You can also try a baking soda and vinegar, followed by boiling water, to help break down gunk that's obstructing the flow of water. If that doesn't work, you may have to use a plumber's snake to clean the trap. If you don't have the skills to use a snake and several attempts with a plunger and the homemade drain cleaner do not clear the drain, consult a plumber. If more than one drain in your house is backed up, you may be facing a clog in the main drain line or the sewer. Call a plumber.
Cracked tiles
Replacing the cracked or missing tiles in your bathroom is a quick and easy way to make it look newer. To begin, find the right color and size of tile for the ones you want to replace. Use a grout saw to scrape the grout out around damaged or missing tiles. Break damaged tile into pieces with a hammer and pry them out. Apply adhesive to the back of the new tiles and press them into place. Let the adhesive dry before applying grouting, which comes with instructions. You can use this technique to replace plain tiles with decorative tile, as well. If you are looking to retile your entire bathroom, consider hiring a contractor to do the work.
Replacing a washer in your sink
A dripping faucet can quickly drive you crazy. Most leaky faucets simply need a new washer. Before replacing the washer, turn off the hot and cold water supply valves (usually located under your sink). Locate the screw at the top of the faucet handles (it may have a decorative cover to conceal it). Unscrew and remove the faucet handles. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the hexagonal nut and remove the upright metal stem inside. You will see the washer at the bottom of the stem, held by a screw. Remove the screw and take the washer to the hardware store to make sure you buy the correct size replacement. Once you have put the new washer in place, reverse your steps to replace the faucet handle. If your faucet continues to leak, call your plumber.
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