Handymen warn that most homes have these shoddy mistakes — & they're simple to fix

According to Josh Riutta, owner of Mikku and Sons Roofing in Phoenix, “Cracks in concrete not only look bad but can also be a safety hazard. For smaller cracks, you can find concrete crack filler at most home improvement stores and online. It's a simple DIY project that can make a big difference.” This liquid cement filler is an excellent option because it has a precision tip for easy application and dries enough to support traffic in just 45 minutes. It dries to a neutral gray color, ensuring it matches most concrete.

Riutta says that clogged gutters can be the root of some very expensive problems, explaining, “They can lead to water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Cleaning them regularly is key. You can often find a gutter cleaning tool on Amazon for under $40.” This particular model has an adjustable handle, so you can reach a range of heights with ease. It also comes with two flexible head attachments that bend for better access into nooks and crannies. Most importantly, Riutta explains, a tool like this is a small investment that can potentially save you a lot of cash down the road.

For poorly lit areas, consider these solar fence lights that add lots of illumination without hiking up your monthly expenses. “Outdoor lighting not only looks nice but also improves safety,” Riutta says, adding, “Replacing old, inefficient light fixtures with new, energy-efficient ones can save you money on your electric bill.” These particular lights offer a convenient, wall-mounted design and feature automatic sensors that activate them at dusk and power them off at dawn.

• Available colors: 3

For another outdoor lighting option with a more stylized, vintage look, opt for these solar path lights. All you have to do is drive the stakes into the ground along walkways or garden areas to create instant, energy-efficient lighting displays. And since they have an IP44 waterproof rating, they can tolerate inclement weather as well.

Using this screen repair tape to patch up holes couldn’t be simpler, and you shouldn’t put off using it. As Riutta explains,“Torn or sagging window and door screens look bad and let bugs in.” This tape is made from fiberglass and mimics the cross-hatched mesh design of your existing screen. All you have to do is trim it to size and press it in place over the defect and you’re good to go.

Grab this window cleaner kit to tackle grime. “Dirty windows make a house look dull and can even block natural light. Cleaning your windows regularly is a simple but effective way to improve the look of your home,” Riutta says. This kit comes with a pole that extends up to 62 inches, making it easy to reach both indoor and outdoor windows. Just attach one of the two washable microfiber pads to the end of the pole to dampen the window, then flip it over and use the squeegee to wipe it away.

According to Aaron Lipman, owner of Two Brothers Foundation Repair in Houston, you need to get your hands on some wallpaper seam repair. “Peeling edges make wallpaper look old and poorly maintained, dragging down the entire room’s appearance. Applying wallpaper seam adhesive and smoothing it out ensures a seamless, long-lasting fix,” he explains. This odor-free adhesive is so easy to squeeze into place thanks to the pointy applicator tip. Just pair it with some smoothing tools for a complete job.

“Uneven tables, chairs, or shelves create a sense of instability and poor craftsmanship. Installing self-adhesive furniture levelers fixes the wobble instantly and prevents further wear on floors,” Lipman says. These pads are a great option because they come equipped with a layer of felt that not only levels them out but also ensures they glide smoothly across your flooring. The beige colorway helps them blend in, too.

“Even after a leak is repaired, lingering stains suggest ongoing damage and neglect,” Lipman says, adding, “Using a stain-blocking primer before repainting prevents discoloration from seeping through and keeps walls looking fresh.” This primer has a convenient spray applicator that’s so easy to use and can even be applied over dark colors with no show-through. Better yet, it dries in just 15 minutes.

“A loose doorknob feels cheap and over time, can cause latch misalignment. Reinforcing it with tightened screws or a dab of thread-locking adhesive ensures durability and smooth operation,” Lipman says. All you have to do is apply this glue to the threads (the ridged part) of your fastener and then wait for it to dry before screwing it in. This glue is beloved by Amazon reviewers as well, nearly 48,000 of whom have weighed in to give it a stellar 4.8-star overall rating.

Snagging these cabinet handles may be one of the easiest and best decisions you make in your home. According to Lipman, “Worn-out or tarnished hardware can make even a well-kept kitchen or bathroom feel outdated. Upgrading to sleek, modern handles is a quick, budget-friendly way to refresh cabinets without a full renovation.” These pulls boast a classic bar shape and are made from sturdy stainless steel for a timeless look that’s built to last.

• Available colors: 3

No home update is complete without this silicone lubricant from trusted brand WD-40. “Drawers that stick or don’t close properly signal wear and tear, but are often easy to fix. A little lubricant on the tracks or tightening the hardware restores smooth function in minutes,” Lipman says. The unique application system is so convenient, too, since it allows you to use the straw attachment for a precise stream or the spray attachment for a wide-angle application.

Brett Labeka, handyperson and expert for app-based home maintenance service Frontdoor, advises, “Replace heavy curtains with sheer or light-filtering options, which can simultaneously elevate your room aesthetically and let natural light in.” These linen-blend curtains are a great option since they have a natural-looking woven texture that will look so refined in a range of spaces. And since they feature metal grommets, they’re easy to slide across the curtain rod.

• Available colors: 19

“Some fixes for an instant, fresh facelift include painting your front door, trimming any overgrown plants, adding flowers, and replacing old house numbers,” Labeka says, so snag this door and trim paint, stat. It works on both metal and wood surfaces and boasts a satin finish. Perhaps most impressively, it’s resistant to mildew, chipping, and other wear and tear.

• Available colors: 6

While you’re on your curb appeal-enhancing mission, you won’t want to miss these house numbers. Not only do they use an attractive, modern font, but the large size ensures delivery people won’t be stuck searching for your house. They’re made from sturdy zinc with a matte finish and come with all the screws you’ll need to mount them.

“I recommend putting up and arranging mirrors, as they reflect natural light and make spaces feel larger,” Labeka counsels, and this arched mirror is a gorgeous option. It has a classic vibe that blends in with a range of decor styles, with a brushed metallic frame that comes in multiple colors. And since it comes in multiple sizes, you can make a real statement in any space.

• Available sizes: 8
• Available colors: 3

“Choose warm LED bulbs for a welcoming, cozy feel while reducing energy costs and increasing home efficiency,” Labeka advises. These 60-watt bulbs won’t feel harsh the way that cooler white lights can, and are compatible with sconces, lamps, and ceiling fiextures. They’re also available in packs of 10 and 16 if you’re looking to stock up and replace all your bulbs at once.

“To fix any awkward furniture placement, try rearranging pieces away from walls for a more inviting layout. Also, be sure to keep any walkways clear — this will help improve the flow of the room and home overall,” Labeka advises. To make the task of rearranging less onerous, these furniture sliders can’t be beat. They feature both a smooth side that’s perfect for use on carpets, as well as a plush side, which allows you to use them on hardwood and tile. Just slide them under the legs of your item and you’re ready to move with less effort.

John Gabrielli, Owner of Air Temp Solutions in Delaware, explains, “When filters are clogged, they restrict airflow, use more energy, and can even damage your system. I always advise replacing your air filters every one to three months. This keeps your system running smoothly, extends its lifespan, and will make sure the air in your house is cleaner.” These filters are a good bet because they help trap mold spores, pet dander, dust, and more. They also come highly rated, with a whopping 177,000 Amazon reviewers weighing in to give them an excellent 4.7-star overall rating.

• Available sizes: 20

“Water damage is yet another regular issue, usually from leaky pipes or inadequate sealing around windows,” Gabrielli explains. “Applying some caulking or using pipe insulation can make a huge difference. It stops leaks and prevents moisture from building up, which keeps mold and mildew at a distance,” he adds. This particular insulator couldn’t be easier to use because it comes in the form of sturdy tape — all you have to do is stick it on. The foam lining is great for keeping in heat as well, which helps protect the integrity of your pipes.

To further fend off water damage, this smart water leak detector is great addition to any space. All you have to do is place the sensor-equipped disc underneath a sink or near any other piping and pair it with the corresponding app. If any water drips onto the sensor, it’ll sound an alarm and alert you on your phone, so that you can fix the issue before it becomes a huge problem.

Andriy Boyko, owner of A.O. Handy Inc. in Wisconsin, advises getting your hands on this screwless switch plate. “Wobbly, crooked, or cracked light switch covers make a room look unfinished. It’s one of those small things that you don’t notice right away, but once you do, it’s all you see. Luckily, fixing it is as easy as swapping out the old covers for sleek, screwless ones. They snap on in seconds and instantly make your walls look cleaner,” he says. These covers are compatible with toggle switches and come in colors like black, white, and light almond. Plus, they’re a fan favorite on Amazon, where they’ve earned a 4.7-star overall rating.

• Available colors: 6

“Nothing makes a bathroom look more neglected than old, cracked caulk. It traps dirt, holds moisture, and — worst case — grows mold. Fresh caulk makes everything look clean and prevents water damage,” Boyko explains, adding, “All you need is a tube of mold-resistant caulk and a smoothing tool. If you want crisp, straight lines, tape off the edges before applying the caulk. Smooth it out with a wet finger or a caulking tool, and you’ll have a professional-looking finish in no time.” This particular caulk is made from silicone in a bright white hue. It comes with a precision application tip and dries to a waterproof finish in just 30 minutes.

These cabinet bumpers may be the secret to a calmer, more functional kitchen. Boyko explains, “Loose cabinet doors make your whole kitchen feel cheap. Most of the time, all they need is a quick hinge adjustment with a screwdriver. If they still slam shut loudly, you can add soft-close dampers that make them close smoothly and quietly.” Since these shock-absorbing rubber bumpers come with preapplied adhesive, they’re so easy to set up as well.

Boyko says, “Marks and scuffs on walls and baseboards make a home look worn out. A Magic Eraser can handle most surface scuffs in seconds.” These cleaning sponges truly live up to their name because they allow you to remove residue from surfaces with less elbow grease than other methods. All you have to do is apply some water, wring out the excess, and get to work gently scrubbing the affected surface.

“For deeper marks, a touch-up paint pen works wonders,” counsels Boyko, and these fillable brush pens get the job done. All you have to do is draw up your paint directly from the can like a syringe and change out the cap for the brush tip. Paint will flow directly through the brush, allowing you to cover up small areas with drip-free precision.

“A cluttered entryway makes a home feel chaotic,” Boyko says, explaining, “Shoes piled up by the door, keys tossed on a random table — it all adds up. The easiest fix is a simple wall-mounted key and mail holder, plus a shoe rack to keep everything organized.” This organizer is such an effective version because not only does it have a compartment for mail and a shelf for knickknacks and decor, it also boasts metal hooks for storing keys, coats, dog leashes, and bags.

• Available colors: 5

To further tame the chaos of your entryway, set up this shoe rack and watch the clutter transform. This rack boasts two tiers of shelving with space for additional pairs to sit on the floor underneath it. Need more space? It comes in three- and four-tier options as well. It features a sturdy metal frame and has a minimalist design, ensuring it’ll match a range of decor styles.

• Available colors: 4

“Upgrading to metal vent covers instantly makes a room look more polished,” Boyko says. This particular model boasts a geometric design with a vintage vibe in a variety of shades like chrome, antique brass, and rubbed bronze. It comes in a range of dimensions with a brushed finish that further complements the look and feel. All you have to do is drop it into place.

• Available colors: 10

On the topic of vents, Boyko continues, “If you don’t want to replace them, you can also just spray paint the existing vents with metallic spray paint for a quick refresh.” Highly rated, this formula needs just two layers to create a polished look, with each coat drying in just 15 minutes. And while it’s great on air vents, you can also use it on old hardware like handles.

• Available colors: 4

According to Francis Kaspar, handyman & HVAC technician at The Chill Brothers in Texas, “To elegantly conceal cables along walls, spend money on cable management products [...] Bonus points for bundling additional length beneath furniture with cord organizers.” This particular cable management box has a sleek, unobtrusive shape that will blend in with its surroundings. All you have to do is pop open the lid, store your surge protector inside, and run the cables through the cutouts on the side of box.

• Available colors: 3

Another brilliant cable management tool, the Sleek Socket covers any AC outlet with a sleek, white plate. It has an attached extension cord with three sockets at the end, so you can plug your items in, then tuck it behind furniture or appliances. The result? No more disruptive cords jutting out of the wall.

• Available lengths: 4

Kaspar explains, “It is like throwing money out the window for heating and cooling if you feel a breeze every time you pass a window or door,” adding, “The fix is to use a draft stopper door seal or adhesive weather-stripping foam.” This door draft stopper can be easily trimmed to your desired length and is also great for dampening excess noise. “It is a simple do-it-yourself project that improves the energy efficiency and coziness of your house,” Kaspar concludes.

• Available colors: 4

Much like the draft stopper, this weather seal is perfect for smaller areas where a draft may be present but a more precise fix is needed. This rubbery foam has a flexible feel and a preapplied adhesive backing that makes it very straightforward to install. It can even be used as a gasket on some appliances as well.

“No matter how lovely the artwork is, crooked frames give the impression that the room is incomplete. For accurate and damage-free adjustments, use adhesive hanging strips and a picture-hanging level tool,” Kaspar advises. This magnetic level will get the job done with ease because it can cling to metal items like picture frames, freeing up your hands to do the hard work. It has three bubble compartments for measuring a variety of angles with brightly colored liquid that’s easy to gauge.

Once you have the perfect angle, lock your art in place with these large picture-hanging strips. These strips are great to use when you’d rather not mar your walls with nail and screw holes, since all you have to do to remove them is stretch the tab on the strip. They can support up to 20 pounds and are adored by Amazon reviewers, a staggering 117,000 of whom have weighed in to give them an impressive 4.6-star overall rating.

• Available colors: 2

“Unpatched holes make your walls look sloppy and neglected,” Kaspar says. “Use a drywall repair patch kit to patch minor holes. They are incredibly user friendly and include all the necessary tools, such as a sanding pad and putty knife,” he adds. This small hole repair tool packs all that into one small package and is safe to use on wood and stone as well as drywall. Better yet, the spackle is formulated with primer for a one-and-done application.

According to Kaspar, “A loose toilet seat can make anyone feel like they’re about to fall off — it’s embarrassing for guests too. Tighten the bolts or replace the seat entirely with a soft-close toilet seat. It’s a quick upgrade for under $40.” The hinges on this seat move slowly to prevent loud crashes or slams, while the addition of bumpers makes it feel more sturdy. It comes in both round and elongated shapes.

• Available colors: 2

“Dingy grout makes even beautiful tile look like it’s falling apart. Without requiring regrouting, a grout pen can conceal stains and restore color,” Kaspar explains. This pen delivers a bright white finish and can freshen up an impressive 150 feet of grout. All you have to do is trace your existing grout and it’ll dry in five minutes and fully cure within a day.

“If you have to wrestle with a window to open it, it’s time to fix it,” Kaspar says, adding, “Apply window silicone spray lubricant to the tracks and clean away debris for smoother operation.” It’s perfect for application in both wide and tight spaces since it has a bigger spray nozzle and a smaller straw applicator. You can use it on a range of surfaces resting assured it won’t leave behind a greasy residue.