Because the weather has been so bad lately, we’re all spending more time indoors. When you’re at home more, you start to notice little problems that you may have ignored before, the scuffed walls in the hallway, the tap that keeps dripping, or the cupboard door that never shuts properly.
Instead of ignoring them, this could be the perfect time to fix them. Doing small DIY jobs now can help save money later. Here are some simple ideas from Mr Lender to help you be smart with money at home.
STOP DRAUGHTS AND SAVE ON HEATING
If you can feel cold air coming in around doors or windows, warm air is escaping. That means your heating has to work harder, which costs more money.
Most of these cost less than £20 and are easy to fit.
Why this saves money – Blocking small gaps keeps warm air inside. This means lower energy bills, especially in winter.
FIX A DRIPPING TAP
A dripping tap might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste a lot of water every year.
You might need: • A new washer or cartridge • An adjustable spanner • About 30–60 minutes
There are lots of simple video guides online to show you how this can be fixed
Why this saves money – You won’t need to pay a plumber, which could cost £60–£100 just to fix something small. You will also use less water which could save you money on your bills.
RESEAL THE BATH OR SINK
If the seal around your bath or sink is cracked or mouldy, water can leak into gaps. This can damage walls and floors.
Budget fix: • Scrape off the old sealant
• Add new bathroom sealant (usually under £10)
Why this saves money – Fixing water damage can cost hundreds, or even thousands of pounds. Spending £10 now could stop a much bigger problem later.
REFRESH INSTEAD OF REPLACE
Before you buy something new, ask yourself if the old one just needs fixing up.
Cheap updates: • Paint the kitchen cupboard doors • Change handles and knobs • Sand and stain wooden furniture • Touch up skirting boards
New handles can make a kitchen look brand new for under £30.
Why this saves money – Buying brand new furniture or cupboards is expensive. A small update can make things look fresh without spending loads.
FIX AND PAINT MARKED WALLS
Hallways and bedrooms often get messy and scuffed.
If you have leftover paint, you can: • Fill in small holes
• Sand rough areas
• Paint over marks
If you don’t have paint, check local reuse centres or community groups, people often give away spare tins for free.
Why this saves money – Keeping walls tidy stops bigger decorating jobs later.
CLEAN APPLIANCES TO HELP THEM WORK BETTER
This isn’t proper DIY, but it still saves money.
• Clean the washing machine filter • Descale the kettle • Vacuum behind the fridge • Clear fluff from the tumble dryer
When appliances are dirty, they use more energy.
Why this saves money – Clean appliances work better, use less electricity and last longer.
Smart Ways to Save Money on DIY Supplies
Before you rush to a DIY shop, try these tips:
Plan first – Make a list and measure properly. Borrow tools – Ask family or neighbours before buying something you’ll only use once. Compare prices online – Prices can be very different between shops. Check clearance sections – You can find big discounts. Look on community marketplaces – People often sell or give away spare materials. Use loyalty points or cashback – Get something back when you spend.
Small Jobs Now = Bigger Savings Later
It’s easy to think DIY costs money. But in the long run it could actually save money.
Fixing small problems could:
Stop bigger damage
Save energy
Avoid paying professionals
Keep your home in good shape
Even though the bad weather may have kept you indoors, you can use your time wisely. A few hours of work now could save you hundreds of pounds.
Mr Lender is a multi-award winning lender and is rated five stars on Trustpilot by customer reviews. So why would you choose anyone else for your short term loans?
