6. Keep the dishwasher door gasket/seal from leaking

Why: The rubber seal is worn down.

Tools: A new gasket (take the old one to your hardware store along with the dishwasher model number)

Time: 10 to 15 minutes

More help: RepairClinic.com gives a quick “Door Gasket Replacement” demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?vQe-zNyP02Z8

Tip: Before replacing, first wipe down the gasket to make sure that food and mineral gook are not preventing a proper seal. Note that the seal may be located on the door or inside the machine. Soak new seal in warm water before replacing.

7 . Fix a leaky faucet

Why: Dripping plumbing wastes water, leads to stains and causes an annoying sound.

Tools: Faucet repair kit, which should include any needed hardware, plus a wrench set and Philips screwdriver

Time: 20 minutes

More help: Lowe’s shows you “How to Fix a Leaky Faucet With a Single-Handle Design”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?vA7e2bIfP8Us and “How to Fix a Leaky Faucet With a Two Handle Design.”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?voRls—2q4AHA&featurerelmfu

Tip: Close the drain and drape a towel at the bottom of the sink or tub to prevent hardware from going down the drain.

8. Regrout your tub

Why: It’s important to remove old grout that’s cracked or moldy to prevent deep-water damage in the wall and floor.

Tools: Screwdriver for scraping as well as grout and a sponge

Time: 30 to 60 minutes, plus drying time

More help: Los Angeles contractor Chris Wade demonstrates “How to Regrout a Bathtub”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v4uyn5RmLzyc on a flamingo-pink tub.

Tip: Get in there and use your finger to apply the grout.

9. Repair small wall holes and dents

Why: Smooth out your wall to prep for a clean paint job.

Tools: Mesh, spackle, putty knife and sandpaper

Time: 10-plus minutes

More help: AOL’s Barbara K shows you “How to Patch or Repair a Hole in a Wall”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?vy4yqVFb96bo

Tip: “Always prime these areas,” says Joe Kowalski, a training manager and paint expert for Glidden paint.