DIY Tatay: Home Repairs Every Dad Should Know (and When to Call a Pro)

Let’s face it, being a dad sometimes feels like being the default handyman of the house — plumber, electrician, carpenter, and everything in between. While it’s great to learn some basic repairs, it’s also important to know when to roll up your sleeves… and when to pick up the phone and call a pro.

Here are the home fixes I’ve learned to handle on my own — and the situations where I know better than to risk it.

🔨 Home Repairs Every Tatay Should Know

1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet wastes water and money. Replacing a worn-out washer or tightening fittings usually does the trick.

2. Replacing Light Fixtures or Bulbs
As long as the circuit breaker is off, swapping out old lights or installing LED fixtures is doable — and satisfying!

3. Unclogging a Drain
A plunger, baking soda + vinegar, or a drain snake can save you a plumber’s fee. Works well for kitchen sinks and bathroom drains.

4. Hanging Shelves or Frames
Level, drill, screw — done. Just make sure you’re not hitting any electrical lines behind the wall.

5. Minor Wall Repairs
Got a hole from a doorknob or a dent in the drywall? A bit of spackling paste and paint goes a long way.

🚧 When to Call a Pro (Trust Me)

1. Electrical Rewiring
Anything beyond replacing a bulb or fixture? Call a licensed electrician. Safety first, always.

2. Major Plumbing Issues
If there’s flooding, sewage backup, or burst pipes — better call in the experts to avoid bigger damage.

3. Roof Repairs
Not only is it dangerous to climb and work on a roof, but incorrect fixes can lead to leaks and even more costly repairs.

4. Gas Line Repairs
Smell gas? Don’t risk it. Turn off the main line and call a professional right away.

5. Structural Issues
Cracks in walls, sinking floors, or leaning beams — these could point to bigger problems that need expert eyes.

🧰 Tatay Tip: Invest in a Basic Tool Kit

You don’t need a whole workshop. A few essentials go a long way:
✔️ Hammer
✔️ Screwdrivers
✔️ Adjustable wrench
✔️ Pliers
✔️ Tape measure
✔️ Drill
✔️ Flashlight
✔️ Duct tape (your best friend)

Being a DIY tatay is part of the job — and honestly, it feels good to fix things around the house. But knowing your limits doesn’t make you less of a man. It just makes you a smart one. Save your energy (and your back) for the things that truly matter — like family time.