Walls, doors & windows repair guides
Patch holes, quiet squeaky hinges, fix doors that won't latch, recaulk a tub and free up windows that stick. Good-looking results with basic tools.
- How to patch a hole in drywallMost wall holes are a one-afternoon fix. Match the method to the size of the hole, take your time with thin coats, and the patch will disappear under paint.Easy30 minutes of work, plus drying time
- How to fix a squeaky doorA squeaky door is almost always a dry or dirty hinge. A few drops of the right lubricant fix most of them, and cleaning the pins handles the stubborn ones.Easy10–30 minutes
- How to fix a door that won't latchWhen a door swings shut but won't stay closed, the latch is missing the hole in the strike plate. A loose hinge is the usual culprit, and most fixes need only a screwdriver.Easy15–60 minutes
- How to recaulk a bathtubCracked, moldy caulk lets water into the wall behind your tub. Fresh caulk takes an afternoon to apply, and the prep work is what makes it last.Easy1–2 hours, plus curing time
- How to fix a sticking windowMost windows that stick are either painted shut or have dirty, dry tracks. Both are fixable with simple tools, as long as you go gently and take care with old paint.Moderate20 minutes to 2 hours