Introduction To Mr. Fix-It

I was involved in the building industry for more than 20 years. Hence, I would dare say I'm quite familiar with most things in our house. For most people and including myself, the house is considered one of the most expensive asset that we have invested in our life. Hence, we would treasure it and take good care of it as it provides a roof over our heads, gives us security and of course, comfort. Once we enter our home, we always feel a sense of comfort, relax and secure and automatically our mind zero in to a feeling of "Home Sweet Home". There is no place like home.

In order for the house to provide us with long term comfort and security, it needs regular maintenance and up-keep just like our body. If not, it would deteriorates and would be expensive to repair when things breakdown.

Little maintenance is required when it is new. However, we still need minor maintenance at this stage, such as cleaning regularly is a must, some painting whenever it shows sign of defect or stained.

When some things breakdown, we need to engage contractors or technicians to carry out the repairs and the cost would be high. This is to be expected when the contractor needs to factor in the following:-

1. Overhead (Office rental, office equipment, workers' salary, transport, insurance, etc)
2. Profits (Business needs provide to keep going)
3. Tools, Equipment & Materials (Needed to carry out the repairs).

Some contractors (i call them opportunist), fortunately not all, will take the chance to fleece the ignorant house owner. If the owner lacks knowledge or familarity of the cost and the type of work involve, then he will have to pay the price.

In order to prevent such a situation, having the knowledge of some building knowledge and also to carry out minor repairs ourself will definitely save us some money. It is best to DIY - "Do-It-Youself" for minor breakdowns than to summons the repairmen.

In this Blog, I would provide some useful Tips on minor home repairs and information so that some money can be save and also gives us a sense of achievement if we see our efforts in successfully repaired the breakdowns. DIY can be carried out ourself rather than engaging contractor if we have the time. If we do not want to bother ourself or have the time, then it is best to leave it to the tradesmen or repairmen. Of course some breakdowns need specialist, e.g air condition breakdown, electrical breakdown, equipment breakdown etc.

Do not attempt to repair any equipment if we are not familiar with them. In this case, engaging a contractor is the best solution and have to part with some cost to ensure professional results.. When the breakdown involves electrical equipment, then it is best to leave it to the electrician or specialist unless we are trained in this field. Simple electrical works can still be carried out using DIY, such as replacing blown bulbs, install a new 3-pin plug (socket).

Do visit my next posting for some DIY Tips