A handyman is a Jack-of-all-trades who tackles multiple home improvement and repair tasks. They are like the superheroes of home maintenance, able to fix anything from a broken shelf to a clogged toilet.
A good handyman tool kit includes tools such as fish tape, which helps route cables and wires, and duct tape, used for various jobs. Handymen also need a cordless drill, complete with multiple drilling bits. Contact Professional Home Repair now!
Owning a home is a great privilege, but it also comes with a lot of maintenance responsibilities. Over time, normal wear and tear, as well as accidents and other unforeseen circumstances can lead to the need for various repairs. A handyman is the jack-of-all-trades in the home improvement industry, and they can be a homeowner’s best friend when it comes to managing minor repairs and renovation projects.
Leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, and broken light fixtures are just a few of the common issues that handymen can resolve. However, many maintenance tasks require the skills and experience of a licensed contractor. In these situations, a handyman will be able to refer their customer to a professional who is qualified to handle the more complex job.
Appliance Installation
If you’re in the market for a new kitchen or laundry room appliance, a handyman can help with the installation process. They will ensure that your new appliances are installed properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Furniture Assembly
For anyone who’s ever tried to put together a piece of flat-packed furniture, the task can be extremely frustrating. But a handyman can turn this challenge into an opportunity by deciphering the cryptic instructions and bringing your new furniture to life.
Flooring
Over time, the constant pounding of shoes on your floors can leave them looking worn and damaged. A handyman can fill in dings, repair chipped or cracked tile, and install new flooring to freshen up your space. They may even be able to assist you with more significant flooring work, such as refinishing and replacing hardwood floors. However, it’s important to make sure that your floors are clear of personal belongings before a handyman arrives to prevent damage or scuff marks.
Appliance Installation
Whether you need to replace your dishwasher, washer, dryer, stove, or refrigerator, or install a new ceiling fan or bathroom vanity, handymen offer the full range of appliance installation services. They can also install or replace cabinets, countertops, toilets, showerheads and faucets, and lighting fixtures. And when it comes to light install services, there’s nothing they can’t handle. From running wires to installing new fixtures, light switches and outlets, track lighting, recessed lighting, and even outdoor lighting, there’s no job too big or small for a skilled handyman.
Gutter cleaning is another common handyman service, but there are a few other jobs they can help with as well. For more information on how to choose the right professional for your next home improvement project, click here.
Furniture Assembly
Furniture assembly can be a tedious task that takes time to complete. If you need a new dining table, sofa, or desk but don’t have the time to get it together yourself, hiring a handyman is an option. They will have all the tools necessary to get the job done quickly. They will also have experience assembling different types of furniture, so they know how to handle the materials properly. This will prevent them from damaging the piece or causing any structural issues later on.
If you’re looking for a local furniture assembly service, you can use a handyman website to find a pro near you. Angi is a popular option that makes it easy to search for local contractors with specific skills, including furniture assembly. You can filter the results by your location and then compare pros based on their reviews and qualifications. Some pros may offer a flat rate for their services, while others will give you a cost estimate upfront once they have the details of your project.
Many Handy professionals who specialize in furniture assembly have years of experience putting items together. They’ve set up all kinds of furniture, from beds to tables and chairs. They’re familiar with the instructions that come with each type of furniture, and they understand how to follow them exactly. They also have liability insurance, which gives you peace of mind if something goes wrong during the process. This is particularly important if you’re ordering furniture online, which often arrives in a million little pieces that can be dangerous to work with. A furniture assembly professional will have the knowledge and experience to avoid any potential accidents during the project.
Plumbing
Many states require handymen to carry a license before performing certain types of work. This ensures that a professional has the proper training and expertise to perform specific tasks. It also helps ensure that homeowners can feel confident in the quality of work performed by a licensed handyman, eliminating the risk of costly mistakes or safety hazards.
A licensed handyman can offer a variety of services that can improve the function and aesthetics of a home. Some examples include unclogging toilets and drains, repairing dripping faucets, and replacing shower heads. These projects often result in more efficient water usage and reduced utility bills. Handymen can also install new fixtures and appliances, such as dishwashers or ceiling fans. These installations are crucial for ensuring that household appliances operate properly and safely.
However, it is important for both homeowners and handymen to understand the scope of work that a licensed handyman can legally perform. Most handymen do not have the licenses necessary to provide advanced plumbing, electrical, or HVAC services. These specialized skills require significant education and training to execute properly. It is also illegal for a handyman to advertise these types of services without the proper credentials.
While some state regulations differ, many require handymen to hold a general contractor or construction-related license in order to perform major structural repairs and renovations. These projects often involve extensive bidding, adherence to building codes and ordinances, and specialized knowledge of materials and construction techniques. Hiring a licensed general contractor can prevent legal ramifications and safeguard the structural integrity of a home.
Flooring
Handymen are the craftsmen behind floor transformations, laying new flooring on walls and floors to create visual and functional enhancements. They also replace tiles and grout, revitalizing spaces that appear dull or drab. In addition, these professionals are the experts at installing carpet, hardwood, vinyl, and laminate floors.
When hiring a handyman for these or other services, be sure to discuss the costs and timeline of the project ahead of time. Ask for a written quote and payment schedule, and ensure that any work completed aligns with the agreed upon quote. Also, request that the professional provide a warranty or guarantee on their work.
If you’re a contractor, be sure to get your business licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability. Many states have licensing requirements for contracting businesses, including minimum insurance coverage and registration of your company’s name. State enforcement staff take licensing violations seriously, and are known to scour Craigslist ads for unlicensed contractors. Contact CT Corporation for help determining the exact licensing requirements that pertain to your business.
NEXT contributor Matt Crawford leads a team of writers that cover the small business world. He is an expert in business insurance and a generalist who has worked as a writer, editor, and marketer for a wide range of companies and publications.