Thinking about upgrading your kitchen with a new sink? Whether you're replacing an old, worn-out model or adding a more modern, functional style, proper installation is key. At Handyman Service St. John’s , we specialize in kitchen fixture upgrades across Newfoundland homes, and we know that even a simple sink swap can go a long way in improving your space.  Here’s our step-by-step guide to installing a new kitchen sink —plus when it’s best to call in a pro. 🛠 Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Supplies Before you begin, you’ll need: New kitchen sink (undermount or drop-in) New faucet and strainer (optional but recommended) Silicone caulk Adjustable wrench and basin wrench Plumber’s putty Bucket and towels Tape measure Utility knife If you're installing a deeper or differently shaped sink, you may also need to modify your countertop or plumbing. 🧰 Step 2: Remove the Old Sink Shut off the water supply under the sink. Place a bucket under the drainpipes to catch any residual water. Disconnect the water lines , drainpipe , and garbage disposal (if present). Loosen any clips or brackets holding the old sink in place. Carefully lift out the old sink. You may need to cut through caulk or sealant first. 💡 Pro Tip: Take a photo of the existing plumbing setup before removing anything—it helps during reassembly. 📏 Step 3: Check the Fit Measure the sink opening in your countertop to ensure the new sink fits properly. If it doesn’t, you may need to cut the countertop (especially for farmhouse or apron-front styles). If the fit is good: Clean the countertop area thoroughly. Test-fit the new sink and faucet placement. 🪛 Step 4: Install the Faucet and Drain (Before Mounting the Sink) It’s often easier to attach the faucet , sprayer hose , and sink strainer before placing the sink into the counter. This step is usually done from the top while the sink is out. Use plumber’s putty around the sink strainer and faucet base to ensure a watertight seal. 🧽 Step 5: Mount the Sink Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the edge of the countertop opening. Carefully lower the sink into place, pressing down gently to seal it. If using mounting clips (for drop-in sinks), tighten them from underneath. Wipe away excess caulk. Undermount sinks may require brackets and support while the adhesive cures—this is often a job for professionals. 🚰 Step 6: Reconnect Plumbing and Test Reconnect the water supply lines , drainpipes , and garbage disposal . Slowly turn the water back on and check for leaks under the sink. Tighten any loose connections, and seal gaps if needed. Let everything sit for a few hours to ensure the caulk has cured properly before full use. 🧑‍🔧 When to Call the Pros Installing a sink sounds simple—but if you’re dealing with: Undermount sinks Countertop modifications Older plumbing setups Leaks or pressure issues …it’s best to leave it to a professional. At Handyman Service St. John’s , we handle everything from removal to installation, ensuring your new kitchen sink looks great and works flawlessly—without the stress or mess. Need Help With Your Kitchen Upgrade? We serve homeowners across St. John’s, Newfoundland , offering fast, reliable, and affordable handyman services for kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond. Whether it’s a full renovation or a simple fixture swap, we’re here to help. 📞 Contact Handyman Service St. John’s today to book your kitchen sink installation!

When it comes to designing or renovating your kitchen or bathroom, choosing the right tile isn’t just about looks—it’s about durability, safety, and long-term value. At Handyman Service St. John's , we’ve installed hundreds of tiles in homes across St. John’s, Newfoundland , and we know what works best in wet areas. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s our guide to the best tiles for kitchens and bathrooms that combine performance and style. 1. Porcelain Tile: Durable and Water-Resistant Porcelain is a go-to choice for wet areas because of its low water absorption rate , strength, and resistance to stains and scratches. It's denser than ceramic , making it ideal for high-moisture environments like bathrooms and kitchen floors. Why it’s great: Highly water-resistant Comes in various finishes and styles Great for both floors and walls Best use: Shower walls, bathroom floors, kitchen flooring, and backsplashes. 2. Ceramic Tile: Budget-Friendly and Stylish Ceramic tile is slightly more porous than porcelain but still offers solid performance in moisture-prone areas. It’s also more affordable and available in an incredible range of colors and patterns. Why it’s great: Easy to clean Wide variety of designs Good water resistance with proper sealing Best use: Kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, and low-traffic bathroom floors. 3. Natural Stone Tile: Elegant but Needs Maintenance For a luxurious look, natural stone tiles like marble, slate, or travertine can be beautiful choices. However, they do require sealing and regular maintenance to remain resistant to moisture and staining. Why it’s great: Unique, natural appearance Adds resale value to your home Variety of textures for slip resistance Best use: Bathroom accent walls, floors with proper sealing, and decorative areas in kitchens. 4. Glass Tile: Perfect for Backsplashes Glass tiles reflect light beautifully and resist moisture, making them a stylish and practical choice for walls, particularly kitchen backsplashes and bathroom accents . Why it’s great: Non-porous and waterproof Easy to clean Available in countless colors and finishes Best use: Accent walls, shower niches, and backsplashes. 5. Vinyl Tile: A Modern Alternative While not a traditional tile, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) has become popular for bathrooms and kitchens. It's waterproof, affordable, and mimics the look of wood or stone without the cold touch or high cost. Why it’s great: 100% waterproof varieties available Warm underfoot Fast and easy installation Best use: Bathroom and kitchen floors in high-traffic areas. Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget About Grout and Slip Resistance Even the best tile can fall short without the right grout and anti-slip features . We recommend epoxy grout for wet areas, as it resists water and stains better than traditional cement grout. And always consider textured or matte finishes to prevent slips in wet environments.  Let the Pros Handle It Installing tile in wet areas takes skill—especially to prevent leaks, uneven layouts, or poor sealing. At Handyman Service St. John's , our local team provides professional tile installation services in St. John’s and surrounding areas , ensuring a flawless finish that lasts for years. Ready to upgrade your bathroom or kitchen with the perfect tile? Contact us today for a free consultation and expert installation.

Toilets are one of the most frequently used fixtures in any home or commercial property—but when they’re not installed correctly, they can quietly waste water, drive up utility bills, and even cause hidden damage over time. At Handyman Service St. John’s , we’ve seen how something as simple as improper toilet installation can lead to costly repairs. Whether you’re upgrading an old model or replacing a leaky unit, professional installation ensures your new toilet runs efficiently and safely for years to come. Here’s why getting it done right the first time matters more than you think. 🚽 The Hidden Costs of Improper Installation When a toilet isn’t installed properly, the problems might not be obvious right away—but they’ll show up sooner than you expect. Common issues include: Slow leaks around the base , which can lead to subfloor damage and mold Loose or rocking toilets , often caused by improper leveling or a misaligned flange Ongoing running water , wasting litres of water every day Poor flushing performance due to incorrectly installed tanks or valves In homes across St. John’s , where the weather can shift quickly and moisture builds up easily, even minor water leaks can create long-term damage. That’s why a professionally installed toilet isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your home. 💧 How Proper Installation Saves Water (and Money) According to the City of St. John’s, toilets account for up to 30% of household water use . A poorly sealed or constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water per week. When installed correctly, your toilet will: Create a tight seal with the floor to prevent water leaks Use water efficiently with each flush (especially with low-flow or dual-flush models) Prevent “phantom flushes” that waste water without anyone using the toilet Comply with local plumbing codes for water conservation 🛠️ What We Do During a Professional Installation At Handyman Service St. John’s , our toilet installation service includes: ✅ Removing the old unit carefully and disposing of it properly ✅ Inspecting and cleaning the flange and wax ring area ✅ Ensuring a level installation to prevent future rocking or seal failure ✅ Installing all components (tank, seat, supply line) with precision ✅ Testing for leaks, stability, and proper flushing ✅ Providing expert tips on maintenance and water-saving settings We use only quality materials, and we stand by our workmanship—because we know your toilet should work reliably from day one. 🏡 Upgrade for Efficiency and Comfort If your toilet is more than 10–15 years old, replacing it with a modern, water-saving model can make a real difference in your utility bill. Many of today’s units offer: Dual-flush options for conserving water Comfort-height designs for easier access Soft-close lids to reduce noise and wear Looking to upgrade your bathroom without a full remodel? Replacing your toilet is a smart, cost-effective first step. 📞 Book Your Toilet Installation with Confidence Whether you’re updating a powder room, outfitting a rental property, or tackling deferred maintenance, Handyman Service St. John’s is here to help.  We bring experience, reliability, and attention to detail to every job—so you can flush with confidence and never worry about what’s happening beneath the surface. Ready to replace your toilet? 📞 Contact us today for a quote or to book your professional installation in St. John’s, Newfoundland .

Dreaming of a bathroom refresh but not quite ready to tear everything out? The good news is you don’t need a full renovation to make a major impact. Replacing old or outdated fixtures —like faucets, showerheads, lighting, and towel bars—can dramatically improve both the look and function of your space without the cost or hassle of a full remodel. At Handyman Service St. John’s , we help homeowners across Newfoundland modernize their bathrooms with simple upgrades that deliver big results. If you're looking to update your space on a budget, here’s how to do it the smart, stress-free way. 🔧 What Bathroom Fixtures Can You Replace Easily? Small details make a big difference—especially in a room that gets used every day. The most impactful (and manageable) bathroom fixture upgrades include: Faucets and sink hardware Showerheads and handheld sprayers Toilets and toilet seats Towel bars, robe hooks, and toilet paper holders Vanity mirrors and medicine cabinets Lighting fixtures and vanity lights Bathroom fans and switches These items can typically be swapped out in just a few hours, especially when handled by a professional. 🛠️ Benefits of Replacing Fixtures (Without Renovating) Updating your bathroom fixtures without ripping out tiles or cabinetry offers several major advantages: ✅ Cost-Effective You save thousands by skipping demolition and plumbing relocation. A full renovation might not be necessary when a few smart upgrades can still give your space a brand-new look. ✅ Less Mess and Downtime Replacing fixtures can often be done in one day , with minimal disruption to your home. There’s no need to go without a working bathroom for weeks. ✅ Energy and Water Savings Modern fixtures often come with low-flow technology and LED lighting , helping reduce your utility bills while making your home more eco-friendly. ✅ Instant Style Upgrade New finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or brass bring modern elegance and cohesion to your bathroom without major construction. 🧰 Pro Tips for a Smooth Fixture Replacement Thinking of upgrading your bathroom on your own? Here are some important tips: Match your finishes : Choose a consistent metal tone across your fixtures for a polished, unified look. Double-check measurements : For faucets, lighting, and mirrors, ensure your new pieces will fit the existing cutouts or mounting hardware. Know your water shut-off valves : Always turn off the water supply before replacing plumbing fixtures. Call a pro when needed : If you’re unsure about electrical or plumbing connections, professional installation is always the safest route. 🧑‍🔧 Why Work with Handyman Service St. John’s? Whether you need help replacing a single fixture or you're planning a full bathroom upgrade over time, our team offers: Fast, professional installation Reliable scheduling and honest pricing Advice on fixture selection and sourcing Clean, efficient workmanship every time We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout St. John’s, Newfoundland , helping you make the most of your home—without the mess or expense of a major renovation. 🚿 Ready to Refresh Your Bathroom? Your dream bathroom might be just a few fixture upgrades away. Let Handyman Service St. John's help you transform your space—quickly, affordably, and with expert care.  📞 Contact us today to schedule your fixture installation or get a free quote!

A bathroom vanity is more than just a functional feature—it’s a major part of your bathroom’s style, storage, and everyday convenience. Whether you're upgrading an outdated fixture or completing a full bathroom renovation, installing a new vanity is an exciting step. But before the tools come out and the installation begins, a little preparation can go a long way. At Handyman Service St. John's , we help homeowners across St. John’s, Newfoundland, complete smooth and stress-free vanity installations . Here’s a quick checklist to get your space ready and avoid any last-minute surprises. ✅ 1. Measure Twice—Buy Once Before purchasing a new vanity, measure your space carefully . Take note of: Wall-to-wall width where the vanity will sit Floor depth (especially in tight bathrooms) Existing plumbing locations Mirror and light fixture placement Make sure the vanity you choose fits comfortably without crowding toilets, doors, or showers. If you're upgrading to a larger vanity, double-check that it won’t block outlets or limit accessibility. ✅ 2. Turn Off Water Supply This is a must. Locate your sink’s shut-off valves (usually under the existing vanity) and turn off the water before any removal begins. Test the faucet to ensure the water is completely off. If you’re not sure where the main shut-off is—or if your valves are stuck—it’s a good idea to let a pro handle it. ✅ 3. Clear the Area Remove all items from the vanity cabinet, countertop, and surrounding areas. Move bath mats, towels, bins, and anything hanging near the vanity so your handyman has plenty of space to work safely and efficiently. Tip: Lay down a protective sheet or towel to protect your floor from dust or small debris during removal. ✅ 4. Disconnect Plumbing Removing the old vanity requires disconnecting: Supply lines (hot and cold) The P-trap (drainpipe under the sink) Possibly your faucet, if it’s being reused This step can be messy, so it’s best left to a professional unless you're confident with plumbing basics. ✅ 5. Assess the Wall Condition After removing the old vanity, check the wall for: Mold or mildew Water damage Loose drywall or old mounting hardware This is your chance to repair any hidden issues before installing the new unit. In damp climates like St. John’s, keeping walls dry and sealed is essential for long-term durability. ✅ 6. Check for Level Floors and Studs A new vanity needs a level surface to sit properly and be secured to the wall. If your bathroom floor has shifted or your walls are uneven, your handyman may need to make minor adjustments. Finding the studs behind the drywall ensures the vanity can be anchored safely and securely. ✅ 7. Plan for Vanity Height and Sink Type Modern vanities come in different heights and sink styles—vessel, undermount, integrated, or wall-mounted. Be sure your mirror, backsplash, and lighting align with the type you’ve chosen. A vessel sink, for example, will sit higher and may require lower lighting placement. 🧰 Let Handyman Service St. John's Handle It If this checklist feels overwhelming, don’t worry—we’ve got it covered. At Handyman Service St. John's , we offer professional vanity installation services that include: Safe removal of old vanities Plumbing reconnections Wall repair and touch-ups Clean, precise installation We’ll make sure your new vanity fits perfectly and functions beautifully in your space—no stress, no mess.  📞 Contact us today for a quote or to book your vanity installation in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

What you need to know

Vanity Installation

Handymen are often thought of as being cheaper and less skilled than general contractors. However, this isn't always the case. In fact, many handymen are just as skilled and experienced as general contractors, but they don't specialize in one particular area or trade. This means that they can handle a variety of different home repairs and improvement jobs. General contractors don this title because they are typically generalized to one specific trade. For example, a general contractor could be a drywall expert and his area of profession would include jobs such as boarding, taping, mudding or anything else to do with drywall specifically. Now of course this means you could rely on this general contractor for anything drywall related, from taping and finishing a single room to drywalling an entire new home, but if you were to ask them to help with another separate repair you needed done in your home they wouldn't be able to help you. A handyman in contrast would be able to help you with a variety of different tasks because they don't specialize in just one trade. This means that they can help with things like drywall, but they can also do repairs on your plumbing, electrical, doors and windows or anything else you need help with around the house. Handymen are often considered "jack of all trades" meaning they have extensive experience working in all types of trades, and are also usually a specialist in one or two trades as well. This does mean that not all handyman are going to be able to handle the exact same types of jobs, but usually you can count on this handy people to help out with most jobs around your home. The majority of jobs that handymen take care of are minor home repairs and home improvement projects . For example, if you had a couple new appliances you needed to have installed, then you would like someone to change a leaky faucet in your bathroom, plus you had a couple electrical outlets that needed to be replaced, you could call on a handyman. Rather than having to call 3 separate contractors to tackle all of these small jobs around your home, you can simply call a local handyman who can come in and do all of it for you at once! Handymen are also typically more cost-effective than general contractors. This is because they don't have the overhead costs associated with running a business such as paying employees and having to have materials readily in stock. They also don't have to charge for their time spent traveling to and from job sites. When you hire a handyman, you are simply paying for their time and labor, which is often much cheaper than hiring a general contractor. So if you're in need of some home repairs or improvements, it's definitely worth considering hiring a handyman instead of a general contractor. You may be surprised at how much money you can save. We hope this has been able to help you differentiate between a general contractor and a local handyman. If you think you might need a handyman to help around your house then give us a call, we would love to help! Handyman Service St. John's has been providing home services for over to decades, we have the experience and hands on expertise needed to ensure you get the help needed for small jobs around your home.

A handyman is a great asset to have around the house. They can do all sorts of small jobs that need to be done, from changing lightbulbs to installing appliances. Handymen are also great at painting and hanging doors. It's important to consider that not all contractors are competent at the same things, but when hiring a handyman they should have a pretty good idea on how to tackles all types of jobs around your house. When it comes to exactly what types of jobs each handyman could complete, there is a wide variety and it depends on each individual. While we aren't able to speak for other contractors out there, we can list a few of the jobs we can take care of for you, and hopefully that can give you a good idea of the type of jobs that handymen can take care of. If you're thinking about hiring a handyman, here are some of the things they should be able to do: Changing lightbulbs: This may seem like a small task, but changing lightbulbs can be difficult, especially if they're high up or in hard-to-reach places. A handyman will be able to change your lightbulbs quickly and easily. Installing appliances: Appliance installation can be tricky. A handyman will know how to properly install your new dishwasher or washing machine. Painting: If you need help painting a room in your house, a handyman can assist you. They'll prep the area and then get to work painting. Hanging doors: Hanging a door can be difficult, especially if it's not level. A handyman will make sure your door is hung properly and level. Installing light fixtures: Installing light fixtures can be difficult, especially if you don't have experience with electrical work. A handyman will be able to install your new light fixtures quickly and easily. Installing outlets: If you need new outlets installed, a handyman can help. This is another task that involves electrical work, so it's best to leave it to the professionals. Minor water supply hook ups: If you have a new water heater or other appliance that needs to be hooked up to the water supply, a handyman can do this for you. Drywall repair: Drywall can be damaged easily. If you have a hole in your drywall, a handyman can patch it up for you. Ceiling fan installation: Ceiling fans can be difficult to install. A handyman will make sure your ceiling fan is installed properly and securely. Tiling: Tiling can be a difficult task, especially if you're not experienced with it. A handyman can help you tile your kitchen or bathroom backsplash. TV wall mounting: If you need help mounting your TV on the wall, a handyman can do this for you. They'll make sure your TV is mounted properly and securely. If you're in need of home repairs or improvements, contact a local handyman company. Handymen are skilled at completing all sorts of tasks around the house. From changing lightbulbs to painting, they can do it all. Hiring a handyman is also a great way to get things done around your home and have the confidence that they're getting done by a professional. If you need local handyman services then contact us today to get started on your home repairs or improvements. We have over two decades of experience when it comes to working on homes and we can't wait to help you. Give us a call today!