When you think of a handyman, your mind might immediately jump to the typical odd jobs around the house—fixing that leaking tap, assembling flat-pack furniture, or hanging up a picture frame that’s been sitting in a corner for weeks. But here’s the thing—handymen are like the ultimate hidden gems when it comes to tackling a whole variety of tasks. Sure, they’re excellent at fixing the basics, but you might be surprised by the range of skills many handymen have up their sleeves.
Let’s dive into the world of the unexpected. Here are 10 jobs you didn’t know a handyman could handle:
1. Smart Home Setups
Yes, your trusty handyman can be your tech guru too! Smart home gadgets are all the rage, but setting them up can sometimes feel like learning a new language. Whether it’s installing smart thermostats, doorbells, or even voice-controlled lighting, handymen are increasingly adding tech to their toolkits. They can help set up your devices, configure them to your Wi-Fi, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
2. Custom Shelving and Storage Solutions
If your home needs more storage space, a handyman might just be your best friend. Many handymen are skilled at building custom shelving units, fitted wardrobes, and storage nooks. Whether it’s turning an awkward alcove into a practical storage solution or creating bespoke shelves that fit perfectly in your space, they can get creative with woodwork and design.
3. Painting and Decorating
You probably wouldn’t think of calling a handyman for painting and decorating, but many of them are more than capable of taking on these tasks. From refreshing the walls in your living room to giving your exterior a fresh coat of paint, handymen can tackle these jobs with precision. West London handyman services can also cover help with wallpapering and small decorative touches, making them a cost-effective alternative to hiring specialist decorators.
4. Basic Plumbing Work
Yes, you read that right! Handymen are often experienced in basic plumbing jobs. We’re not talking about a full bathroom remodel here, but if you need a new tap installed, a blocked sink unclogged, or even a toilet that won’t stop running, many handymen can handle these small yet essential tasks. It saves you the hassle (and often the higher cost) of calling out a full-fledged plumber.
5. Garden Maintenance
Think a handyman only works indoors? Think again! A surprising number of them can also help with outdoor jobs like garden maintenance. From mowing the lawn and trimming hedges to building garden furniture and installing fences, they’re equipped to assist with those outdoor tasks that often get left until “next weekend.” You might be surprised at how much greener your garden can look with just a little help.
6. Gutter Cleaning and Repair
Clogged gutters are a disaster waiting to happen. Overflowing water can damage your roof, walls, and foundation. Yet, cleaning them isn’t exactly at the top of anyone’s to-do list. Luckily, many handymen offer gutter cleaning and repair services. They’ll handle the dirty work for you, ensuring your gutters are clear and functioning properly before the next downpour.
7. Flat Roof Repairs
Flat roofs are notorious for leaks and water damage, and if left unchecked, they can lead to bigger (and pricier) problems. Instead of calling in a roofing specialist right away, check with your handyman. Many handymen are trained to handle minor flat roof repairs. Whether it’s fixing a small leak or applying waterproof coatings, they can provide an efficient and cost-effective solution.
8. Childproofing Your Home
If you’ve got little ones on the move, childproofing your home is essential. This can involve more than just sticking a few outlet covers in place. Your handyman can help with the installation of baby gates, securing furniture to the walls, adding safety locks to cabinets, and even installing window guards. They know the ins and outs of making a home safe for curious toddlers.
9. Assembling Exercise Equipment
Bought a new treadmill or exercise bike that’s still sitting in its box? No worries, a handyman can step in. While exercise equipment comes with instructions, they can often be frustratingly complicated. Handymen are familiar with reading manuals and putting things together, ensuring your home gym is up and running in no time.
10. Picture Hanging and Gallery Walls
Yes, hanging up pictures can be trickier than it looks. A handyman can take this seemingly simple task to the next level. If you’ve got a gallery wall in mind but aren’t sure where to start, they can help plan the layout, hang the frames, and make sure everything is straight and secure. They’ll also ensure heavier pieces are safely anchored to the wall, so you won’t have any mishaps later on.
Why a Handyman is Your Go-To for These Unexpected Jobs
There’s something reassuring about having a handyman who can handle such a variety of tasks. For one, it saves you the time and stress of trying to find different specialists for every single job. Instead of juggling multiple contractors, you’ve got one go-to person who can tackle a wide range of challenges around your home. Plus, handymen often come with a can-do attitude that means they’re willing to find solutions to whatever home improvement project you throw their way.
Many handymen are also highly adaptable, learning new skills to meet the demands of their clients. If you’re not sure whether a handyman can handle a particular task, it’s always worth asking. You might be pleasantly surprised at what they’re capable of.
Getting the Most Out of Your Handyman
When hiring a handyman, communication is key. Be clear about what you need, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience with certain jobs. Most handymen are happy to discuss their skills and may even suggest improvements or ideas you hadn’t considered. You’ll get the best results when there’s a mutual understanding of what the project entails.
So, the next time you’ve got a to-do list that feels never-ending, remember that a handyman might just be the superhero you didn’t know you needed. From tech to tiny repairs, they’re far more versatile than you might expect!