The Handyman: Keeping You From Electrocuting Yourself

Most people, at one point in time or another, have considered undertaking common household repair jobs on their own. There's nothing wrong with do-it-yourself, or at least attempting a project, but there is definitely a time when it's better to call on the help of a professional handyman. Too often people tackle large or complex projects that go beyond simple hinge oiling or screw tightening. If you're household problem involves electricity, plumbing, heavy objects, or any combination of these, you'll need some help. Here are some common fixes that you'll want to hire an experienced handyman to do.

Ceiling Repair
Leaky roof or ceiling? Strange wet spots developing? Or perhaps you just had one particularly crazy party and are left with a gaping hole above your head. Whatever the reason, this is a job for him. Why shouldn't you attempt to break out the spackle and mend it yourself? Well, the most obvious reason is that you'll be craning your neck at an unholy angle while standing on a tall, teetering ladder. This is usually a recipe for disaster and is risky even for the experienced professional. You'll also want to ensure that the job is done carefully and properly to avoid further damage to the ceiling.

Tiling
This do-it-yourself repair or home makeover often results in the inexperienced looking puzzled over a funky, uneven pattern or throwing a trowel angrily against the bathroom wall. Tiling is a pain and requires a trained professional to handle the situation. This is especially true if you want something that looks nice and not "off." Tiling also involves the use of expensive and specialized equipment that can be expensive to rent and a hassle to learn how to use.

Gutter Repair and Cleaning
Similar to fixing a ceiling, do you really want to be pulling sludge out of your gutter while balancing on the roof? Oh, and it's sludge if you're lucky, other times it might be a small, dead animal. This is a messy and dangerous job that can result in broken legs or a bird-pecked skull. A good handyman can flush out your gutters or install a new one in the same amount of time you would spend at the local hardware store trying to sort through a bin of screws.

Septic Tanks and Systems
Only the most die-hard do-it-yourselfer (or mad man) would even think to take on a septic job rather than calling in a trained handyman. It's messy, smelly, and you risk angering the entire neighborhood if you don't get the problem fixed correctly and quickly. You'll also want to consider the health and hygiene issues involved and spare yourself a potential hospital visit.