What can a Handyman do?

This is a question I get asked a lot, and there isn't really a short answer.

The term "handyman" is quite general, formed from two words: "handy," meaning skilled or useful, and "man." However, exactly what a handyman (or handywoman) is skilled or useful for isn't strictly defined.

So, when people ask, "What can a handyman do?" the real question is, "What range of skills am I likely to find among handymen and handywomen across the industry?"

A Short History of the Handyman

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) traces the use of the word "handyman" as far back as 1742. While you wouldn’t have found someone to assemble flat-pack furniture or mount a TV on the wall back then, if you needed your wattle and daub repaired, there were probably some likely lads ready to help.

Over the years, the role of the handyman has evolved alongside changing household needs. Even in the past decade, the landscape has shifted significantly. Today, many homes feature large wall-mounted TVs, smart speakers, and an array of wireless devices that require installation—often by a trusted local handyman.

Despite these modern advancements, the traditional handyman skills remain in demand. Fence repairs, plaster wall fixes, and leaky tap replacements are still part of the job. However, adaptability is a key trait of a great handyman. As technology and home improvements continue to change, so too will the skills and services offered.

Next time you need a job done, take a look at what services your local handyman provides—you may be pleasantly surprised.

Your local handyman from days gone by.

The Many Skills of a Handyman

Many handymen are qualified tradespeople—electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, for example. You might wonder why they don’t work exclusively within their trade. The reason often lies in the natural overlap between different skills. An electrician, for instance, may need to repair drywall or modify kitchen units to install electrical fittings, tasks traditionally covered by other trades. Over time, this broadens their expertise, turning them into multi-traders—professionals with skills spanning multiple trades.

These multi-traders possess a wealth of knowledge and often market themselves as handymen, listing their diverse skill sets in their advertising. They are typically well-suited for larger projects such as home extensions, loft conversions, and kitchen remodels, where various trades are required to work together seamlessly.

Another group of handymen includes those without formal trade qualifications but who have gained substantial experience through hands-on work. Many develop their skills by working on their own properties, tackling DIY projects such as patching plaster walls, installing curtain poles, or even undertaking full-scale home renovations. Through this experience, they become highly capable handymen or handywomen, often surprising themselves with their knack for the work.

Additionally, some handymen focus on offering an extra pair of hands for everyday tasks—gardening, flatpack furniture assembly, or general household maintenance. These services can be invaluable, especially for those who need assistance with physically demanding or time-consuming chores.

The range of services offered by handymen and handywomen is vast. If you ever find yourself in need of assistance and aren’t sure who to call, consider reaching out to a local handyperson. They might just provide the service you need—and become an essential contact in your directory.

Note: Some jobs will require legal certification. Always check before hiring.

The many skills of a handyman.

What the Sawbridgeworth Handyman can offer you.

Having discussed the many services of a handyperson in general, you may be wondering exactly what the Sawbridgeworth Handyman can offer you.

As a qualified Structural Engineer, I bring a unique perspective to the handyman industry, entering from a different direction than most. However, I believe that my engineering expertise, combined with extensive house renovation experience, creates the perfect combination for a handyman. My technical mindset and keen attention to detail allow me to complete tasks and projects in a logical, well-thought-out manner, ensuring the best solutions for my clients.

I offer a wide range of services, from straightforward installation tasks such as TV wall mounting, curtain pole installation, picture hanging, and flat-pack furniture assembly to more complex projects like building bespoke shelving or storage units and finding creative solutions to hide unsightly cables.

Additionally, I can tackle general home repairs. Perhaps you have holes in your plaster walls from old fixings, or maybe a fence post has broken in high winds. Homes require constant upkeep, and small issues left unattended can lead to a rundown appearance over time.

I can help you stay on top of maintenance tasks. Book me for a few hours, hand me your 'to-do' list, and I’ll have your home looking its best in no time—allowing you to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Your trusted local handyman.

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