Let’s be real — calling a handyman or contractor for every little thing adds up fast. But here’s the truth: most of the DIY fixes that are cheaper than calling a pro can be handled with a screwdriver and a little guidance.
If you’re wondering which repairs are safe to tackle yourself, this list is for you. These DIY fixes are beginner-friendly, confidence-boosting, and seriously cheaper than calling a pro. And if you mess one up? It’s usually a cheap do-over — not a disaster.
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1. Patch Small Holes and Cracks in Drywall
What Pros Charge: $125–$300 per visit
DIY Cost: Under $25
You don’t need a drywall finisher to fix nail pops, screw holes, or hairline cracks. A tub of spackle, a putty knife, and light sanding is usually all it takes.
What You’ll Need:
- Lightweight spackle or joint compound
- Putty knife (2–6″)
- Fine sanding sponge
👉 Need a walkthrough? See our guide on how to patch nail pops and drywall cracks.
2. Replace a Light Switch or Outlet
What Pros Charge: $100+ per switch/outlet
DIY Cost: Around $10–$20
Old switches and outlets can get loose or fail entirely — and calling an electrician for one outlet adds up quick. As long as you turn off the breaker and double-check your wiring, this is one of the fastest and easiest upgrades you can DIY.
What You’ll Need:
- Voltage tester
- Screwdriver
- Replacement outlet/switch
👉 We show you how in our guide on replacing a light switch or outlet.
3. Re-Caulk Around Sinks, Tubs, and Trim
What Pros Charge: $200–$500 depending on scope
DIY Cost: $10–$30
Cracked, moldy, or missing caulk makes your space look rundown — and leaves gaps for water damage. All you need is a steady hand, a caulk gun, and a little prep.
What You’ll Need:
- Caulk remover tool
- Tub & tile caulk
- Painter’s tape (for clean lines)
- Caulk gun
👉 Follow our full guide on maintaining caulking around windows, doors, and trim.
4. Silence a Running Toilet
What Pros Charge: $125–$250
DIY Cost: Under $15
If your toilet never stops running, it’s almost always a worn-out flapper or float — both are cheap and easy to swap. No plumber needed.
What You’ll Need:
Tip: Shut off the water valve behind the toilet before removing the tank lid.
5. Clean Your Dryer Vent
What Pros Charge: $125+
DIY Cost: $15–$25
A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard, plain and simple. You don’t need a service call — just a vent cleaning brush and a vacuum.
What You’ll Need:
- Dryer vent cleaning kit
- Shop vac or vacuum with hose attachment
👉 Our step-by-step dryer vent cleaning guide breaks it all down.
6. Replace an Old Showerhead
What Pros Charge: $100–$150
DIY Cost: Under $40 (including a better shower)
No plumber needed. A new showerhead can make your bathroom feel like a hotel upgrade — and the swap takes under 15 minutes.
What You’ll Need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Thread seal tape
- Replacement showerhead
👉 Use our guide on replacing a showerhead for full instructions.
7. Fix Loose Cabinet Doors and Drawer Pulls
What Pros Charge: $75+ minimum callout
DIY Cost: Under $5
That one loose handle? The one you ignore every day? You can fix that. Stripped screw holes are easy to fill and re-drill with a little DIY filler or wood glue and toothpicks.
What You’ll Need:
- Wood filler or toothpicks + glue
- Screwdriver or drill
- Cabinet hardware (if replacing)
👉 See our cabinet revamp guide for more beginner-friendly fixes.
8. Reseal Cracks in Outdoor Concrete
What Pros Charge: $300+ for patch jobs
DIY Cost: $10–$40
Hairline cracks in walkways, driveways, and patios are easy to seal before they widen. You’ll just need the right sealant and a clean surface.
What You’ll Need:
- Concrete crack filler
- Wire brush
- Hose or pressure washer
👉 Our outdoor concrete crack repair guide walks you through the prep.
9. Tighten or Replace a Loose Doorknob
What Pros Charge: $100+
DIY Cost: $10–$25
Most doorknobs loosen because of stripped screws or worn hardware. Replacements are easy to install and take under 10 minutes.
What You’ll Need:
10. Reset a Tripped Breaker or GFCI Outlet
What Pros Charge: $150+ just to show up
DIY Cost: Free
If half your kitchen goes dark, check your GFCI outlets before calling an electrician. Pressing reset might be all it takes — and if not, your breaker panel probably is.
👉 Use our light switch and outlet guide to troubleshoot further.
Wrap-Up: DIY Fixes That Are Cheaper Than Calling a Pro
The next time you’re tempted to call a pro for a $10 problem, pause. Most of these DIY fixes that are cheaper than calling a pro are fast, safe, and confidence-boosting — and once you do one, the rest feel way easier.
Plus, you’ll be building your DIY skillset one fix at a time — and saving hundreds while you’re at it.
👉 Ready to take on more? Check out our growing library of DIY Guides for First-Time Homeowners and start leveling up your house one weekend at a time.
