Practically Tool-Free DIY Hacks Anyone Can Do

Not everyone is a dab hand at DIY, and we don’t all own a well-stocked tool box either. But that doesn’t mean you have to turn your back on all aspects of DIY. It doesn’t mean you have to get in a professional for every repair job either. From tiling to decor, the following DIY jobs can be completed either without tools, or with the bare minimum of tools.

Adhesive tiling and back splashes

If you don’t feel confident with the use of tile cutters, grout and tile spacers, that all come with ceramic tiles, then a peel-and-stick back splash or adhesive tiles are the perfect solution. This may still require one tool: a box cutter, which you might need to cut the back splash or tiles to size. If you do decide to try proper tiling, just make your avoid these common mistakes.

Stencilling as decor for walls and furniture

If you don’t fancy completely redecorating, but you want to brighten your walls, or perhaps you want to give some dated furniture a new look, then stencilling is the answer. The only ‘tool’ you will need is a small paintbrush. You can either design your own stencil or print a pattern from the internet, but be sure to use card, not paper. Then simply dab your chosen paint colour into the stencil. This kind of ornamental painting can range from subtle to powerful, depending on the patterns and colours that you choose.

Applying sealant to bathroom and kitchen fittings

OK, this does typically require one tool, and that’s a mastic, or cartridge gun. Although some sealants, from brands such as Unibond, come in their own pressure pack, which means no cartridge gun is required. Sealing the sinks, bath, and shower typically need redoing every few years, especially in high-use areas. Start by making sure you buy the right sealant for the job, although an all-purpose silicone sealant will do most indoor jobs with ease. Then simply remove any existing sealant and give the area a good clean. Take your sealant cartridge and move it in a straight, even line as you apply consistent pressure so it comes out smoothly. Finish it off lightly with your finger, or a sealant smoothing tool if you have one. Make sure you leave it to dry for the recommended time, but 24 hours is usually best.

Nail-free jobs

Brands like Unibond also produce a range of nail-free products that can get a vast range of DIY jobs done with no need for a hammer or nails. In fact, these formulas can even be used in place of screws, which is a godsend for those of us that don’t own a drill either. These types of products can assist with all sorts of jobs, from hanging pictures to fitting coat hooks, affixing skirting boards and even repairing furniture. 

Get lubricating

Just investing in a can of lubricant will arm you with everything you need for several repair jobs and home hacks. Use it to spray a squeaky door, or a stiff window handle. Spray it in the wheels of a tight toy car or rolling toy. You can even use it to loosen rusty nuts and screws, to coat pipes to stop them freezing, and to cover scratches in the lino.

Deal with drafts

Can’t handle a drill but have no problems with a needle and thread? Then this is the DIY job for you. Drafts aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be costly too, which is why it’s essential you do something about them. The joy of making your own draught excluder is that it allows you to get creative in all sorts of ways. All you need is a medium-size piece of rectangular material, a needle and thread, an old pair of tights, and something to stuff them with.

Unblock the drains

Sometimes a drain is so blocked you need to call a plumber. But nine times out of ten you can unblock it yourself with items from the cupboard. It’s so easy, try this amazing baking soda and vinegar hack next time you have a blocked drain.

Forget the hammer and drill, these DIY jobs just require clever products and a can-do attitude.