DIY or Call a Pro? 7 Small Jobs You Shouldn’t Risk Doing Yourself
We’ve all been there — standing in the aisle at the hardware store thinking, “How hard could it be?”
Thanks to YouTube tutorials and a wave of weekend warrior energy, DIY has become the default for a lot of home tasks. But the truth is, some jobs look simple until they go sideways — and then you’re stuck calling for help after spending time, money, and possibly stripping a few screws (and nerves) along the way.
At Fort Bend Home & Lawn Services, I’ve seen the aftermath of “just a quick fix” more times than I can count. That’s why I offer affordable, no-judgment handyman help for the kinds of jobs that seem easy — until they aren’t.
Here are 7 small household tasks where calling a pro can save you time, tools, frustration, and possibly injury.
1. Swapping Out a Deadbolt or Door Lock
Changing a door lock seems easy until you’re halfway through the job and realize the new hardware doesn’t line up with your existing bore holes — or worse, the latch won’t extend properly, leaving your front door stuck or insecure.
Every lock brand has slight variations in dimensions and backset depth. Misalign the latch or over-tighten the screws and the bolt may never sit flush — or fail to lock at all.
I handle lock swaps, deadbolt upgrades, and door hardening kits with precision — so you don’t risk getting locked out or leaving your home vulnerable.
2. Fixing a Broken Fence Picket
A single loose fence board seems like a quick nail-and-go job — until you realize the replacement picket is warped, the existing nails won’t hold, or worse, you hammer into your irrigation line (yes, it happens).
I can replace individual pickets, secure loose panels, or reinforce entire sections without damaging what’s still solid — starting at just $15–$25 depending on size and location.
3. Installing Drawer Pulls or Cabinet Handles
How hard can drilling a few holes be? Pretty tricky — especially when the first hole is just a hair off and now your brand-new pulls sit crooked on every drawer.
Cabinet hardware installation requires precise measuring, level alignment, and often a jig to avoid ruining the finish. I handle the measuring, spacing, and drilling so everything lines up beautifully — whether it’s two handles or twenty.
4. Hanging a Wall-Mounted TV
Mounting a flat-screen TV to drywall might seem easy after watching a video tutorial — but if you miss a stud, use the wrong anchors, or fail to level it properly, you’ll be watching your new screen crash to the floor in slow motion.
I bring the tools, find the studs, mount your TV safely, and even help tidy the cables — saving you hours and a potential drywall repair.
5. Rehanging a Loose Door
A door that won’t close right, drags on the floor, or pops open on its own might seem like a minor nuisance — until you try to fix it. What starts as “tightening a hinge” often turns into shaving the door edge, replacing stripped screws, or adjusting the frame with shims.
I can rehang doors, do alignment, and latch adjustments, especially for older homes where time, moisture, or shifting foundations have caused doors to sag. (If this is due to foundation issues, I’ll point that out.)
6. Assembling Flat-Pack Furniture
Sure, it comes with instructions — and 100 pieces that all look the same. Whether it’s a desk, storage shelf, or outdoor bench, assembling furniture can take hours and sometimes two people just to hold parts in place.
I take the hassle out of furniture setup. Just tell me what it is — I’ll bring the tools, follow the directions, and leave it perfectly assembled and ready to use. No stress. No spare screws left behind.
7. Fixing a Damaged Mailbox
Leaning, rusted, or storm-damaged mailboxes are one of those “I’ll get to it” tasks that seem minor until the HOA notices or mail service gets interrupted.
Depending on how it’s mounted (in concrete, on a post, or on a wall), mailbox repairs can be surprisingly labor-intensive and involve multiple tools — digging bars, post levelers, concrete patch mix — you name it.
I handle mailbox resets, replacements, and post reinforcements — including digging, straightening, or swapping out the entire unit when needed.
When It’s Time to Call a Pro
Every homeowner has a running to-do list — and for many, it grows faster than it shrinks. Whether it’s a fence picket that needs replacing, a drawer pull that won’t install itself, or a door that just won’t close right, these little jobs can quietly chip away at your time, energy, and peace of mind.
What seems like a simple fix often turns into an afternoon of frustration — and that’s assuming you have the tools, parts, and patience on hand.
That’s where I come in.
At Fort Bend Home & Lawn Services, I provide professional handyman help for the small but important jobs around your home. I specialize in repairs and installations that don’t require permits or major renovations — just a sharp eye, a steady hand, and a commitment to doing things right and for a competitive price.
My service is personal, punctual, and tailored to the unique needs of Fort Bend County homeowners. No job is too small to deserve professional care.
Need help with one of the jobs on this list — or something similar?
Reach out through my Contact Page and let me know what you’re working on. I’ll follow up with a quick quote and availability.
No hassle. No guesswork. Just solid, reliable help to knock out your list — so you can get back to enjoying your home.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit my Contact Page
- Send a brief description of the task (or multiple)
- I’ll respond quickly with a fair, flat-rate quote
- Approve the job and pick a time — I’ll handle the rest
You don’t have to do it all yourself. And you don’t have to overpay for help you don’t need.
I’m local. I’m prepared. And I’m here when you’re ready.
– Ken
