8 Skills Every Home Owner Should Master

These are skills every home owner should master to save lots of money over the years. Most can be tackled without fancy tools, although it helps to have a variable-speed power drill.

* Replace a door lock.
* Change furnace and air conditioning filters.
* Find a stud in wall.
* Learn to install wall anchors.
* Hang a ceiling fan.
* Drive drywall screws (to repair drywall).
* Master a caulking gun.
* Replace the flapper ball in the toilet.


Here are some books you can read for more information on home do-it-yourself projects:

* "The Reader's Digest Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual." First published in 1973, it was last updated in 2005. A great all-around book.

* "Home Depot's Home Improvement 1-2-3" (Meredith Books, 2003, $34.95). Clear, helpful visuals.

* "Home & Garden Television's Complete Fix-It" (Time Life, 2000, $29.95).


Source: The News & Observer, Allen Norwood (05/17/2008)