Handyman Naperville IL is skilled in performing maintenance and repair work that other contractors may not be able to complete. They often perform these tasks as a side or “gig” job, but they can also work for construction companies, home warranty companies, or property management firms.
Many handymen start as apprentices to more experienced workers and take courses in various specialties, such as plumbing or electrical repairs.
One of the quickest and most affordable ways to change the look of a room is to replace the light fixture. Whether it’s a chandelier, pendant, wall sconce, or track light, you can install a new fixture in 30 minutes with just a few basic tools.
First, remove any detachable parts from the existing fixture. That may include light bulbs or glass light covers. Next, loosen any screws that hold a decorative plate, called a canopy piece, in place on the ceiling or wall. Then, remove the plate to expose the wiring in the ceiling or wall. If the fixture is particularly heavy, seek a friend’s help to hold it up while you disconnect the wires from it.
Now, locate your home’s circuit panel and switch off the power to the circuit that runs your light fixture. Confirm that the electricity is no longer flowing to the fixture by using a non-contact voltage tester. Once the power is shut off, carefully remove the old fixture.
If the junction box that holds the wiring in your wall or ceiling is recessed more than 1/4-inch from the surface of the wall or ceiling, it’s a code violation and needs to be corrected. You can do this by adding a box extender.
Examine the wiring in the ceiling or wall before you begin to make sure you know which wires are hot and which are neutral. In most cases, the junction box will have a black wire that’s hot, a white or gray wire that’s neutral, and a green or bare copper ground wire.
Before you connect the new fixture, be sure to shut off power to the junction box again by turning off the breaker for that circuit. Then, remove the new fixture from its packaging and inspect it to make sure that it has a hardware plate that will mount to the ceiling box. If it doesn’t, you can create a plate with scrap drywall and screw it to the ceiling. You’ll also need to strip a few inches of insulation off the ends of each wire in order to connect them to each other and the corresponding color wires in the ceiling or wall.
Painting
Painting can be one of the most time-consuming and labor-intensive handyman tasks, but it’s also a common request from homeowners. This is because painting can significantly increase the curb appeal of a home, which may result in it selling more quickly or for higher prices.
Painting requires a lot of preparation. This includes scraping off old paint, sanding down rough areas, and covering furniture and floors. It’s also important to use the right tools for the job, including ladders and masking tape. If you’re a homeowner looking to hire someone to repaint your home, make sure the handyman you choose has the necessary skills and experience.
In addition to painting walls and ceilings, a handyman can also paint decking and stain fences. Handymen often have a wide range of skills that they can apply to these types of projects, such as using a power washer to clean surfaces before applying paint. They’re also familiar with the right techniques for using caulking and other products to create a seamless finish.
One of the best things about hiring a handyman for these jobs is that they’ll be able to do them much quicker than you would be able to in your spare time. This can save you money on materials and help ensure that the finished product is professional.
Another benefit of hiring a handyman to handle these tasks is that they’ll be able to get the job done without causing any damage to your home or furnishings. This is especially important if you’re planning to sell your house in the future.
Handymen can also be hired to do more complex tasks, such as installing a new sink or replacing an existing window. They can even assist with moving heavy furniture or assembling it if needed. This makes them a great choice for any home improvement project that you’re not able to do yourself or don’t have the time to do. This type of work is often performed by a group of workers known as a “team” or “crew.” This usually includes a general contractor, plumbers, and carpenters.
Plumbing
A dripping faucet, a leaky toilet, or a clogged sink can cause real problems. Unless you have the experience and tools to tackle these jobs yourself, hiring a handyman may be your best option. Some handymen offer plumbing services in addition to their other repair and maintenance work, while others specialize in this area of home improvement.
The basic skills a handyman needs to perform his or her job include construction, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to read blueprints. Some vocational schools and community colleges offer classes focusing on particular trades. If you are interested in becoming a handyman, consider taking these types of courses to improve your knowledge and skills. On-the-job training is also important. You can get this by working as an apprentice for more experienced handymen and learning from them.
As a general rule, handymen do not require licensing or specialized education to complete their work. They often work on small projects that don’t require a permit and are focused on ensuring their clients are satisfied with their services.
When you hire a handyman, it is wise to check whether or not they are insured. This will give you peace of mind in case any accidental damage occurs during the course of your project. You should also ask about their level of expertise and what type of work they are able to do.
For instance, some handymen are able to complete minor carpentry tasks such as hanging shelves, replacing light fixtures, and repairing window sills. They can also tackle basic electrical tasks like replacing bulbs, rewiring sockets, and installing alarms and doorbells. However, if the task is more complex than these examples, you will need to hire someone licensed in that area.
While a general contractor is capable of completing a wide range of jobs, they often have to oversee large projects that take months and involve a team of employees or subcontractors. These projects can cost thousands of dollars and have a significant impact on your home or business. If you are planning to remodel your kitchen, for example, it is usually better to hire a specialized contractor rather than a handyman.
Electrical
Just like when you’re flexing your DIY muscles by building furniture, electrical work can be dangerous for untrained individuals. One misstep could spark a fire or electrocute someone.
As a handyman, it’s important to carefully evaluate each job and only accept those that are within your scope of expertise. This will help you avoid any accidents and protect your customers as well as your reputation.
Before accepting any electrical jobs, ask the customer to provide any pictures, architectural and construction drawings, or blueprints to help you understand the project’s requirements. Then, perform a material takeoff to create a list of all the supplies you’ll need. This will give you a good idea of what you’re up against and how much the job will likely cost. Also, be honest with the customer if you’re not comfortable with a task. You’ll only cause frustration for everyone involved if you try to force yourself into doing something that you know is beyond your ability.
