Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should you seal a deck in Colorado?

    In Colorado's climate, decks should be sealed every 2-3 years due to intense UV exposure and dry conditions that break down protective coatings. High-altitude sun and temperature swings accelerate wear. At Fast Work Handyman Services LLC, we assess your deck's condition and recommend staining or sealing based on wood type and sun exposure in Lakewood.
  • What's the most common fence repair needed after winter?

    Gate adjustments and broken or warped boards are the most common issues after winter freeze-thaw cycles. Posts can also shift as ground thaws. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC offers thorough inspections to catch structural problems early and restore your fence's stability and appearance.
  • Can you replace a chandelier without an electrician?

    Basic chandelier swaps can be done safely if the existing wiring and junction box are sound and rated for the new fixture's weight. Always turn off power at the breaker first. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC handles installation with an initial consultation and final safety inspection to ensure code compliance.
  • What causes deck boards to crack or splinter?

    Moisture fluctuations, UV damage, and lack of sealing cause wood fibers to dry out and split over time. Colorado's dry air and intense sun accelerate this process. Regular staining and board replacement during tune-ups help maintain safety and prevent further damage.
  • How do you prepare a fence for Colorado weather?

    Applying a weatherproof sealant or stain protects wood from moisture and UV rays, while checking and tightening hardware prevents wind damage. Vinyl fences benefit from inspections for cracks before temperature drops. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC includes weather preparation in our fence repair services to extend lifespan.
  • What's included in a lighting fixture safety inspection?

    A safety inspection checks that the junction box is secure and rated for fixture weight, wiring connections are tight and code-compliant, and the fixture operates without flickering or overheating. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC performs a final inspection after every lighting installation to ensure efficiency and safety.
  • When should deck railings be replaced instead of repaired?

    Railings should be replaced if posts are loose at the base, wood is rotted beyond surface level, or structural integrity is compromised. Wobbly railings are a safety hazard. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC evaluates railing stability during deck tune-ups and recommends replacements when repairs aren't sufficient.
  • Why do ceiling fans wobble after installation?

    Wobbling usually results from unbalanced blades, loose mounting hardware, or an improperly secured ceiling box. Blade weight and alignment must be checked during installation. At Fast Work Handyman Services LLC, we ensure fans are mounted securely and balanced during the final inspection to prevent noise and wear.
  • What affects the cost of deck staining?

    Deck size, wood condition, and whether prior coatings need stripping all affect staining costs. Heavily weathered decks require more prep work. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC evaluates surface condition and provides transparent pricing based on square footage and necessary preparation in the Lakewood area.
  • Can a wooden fence be repaired if posts are rotting?

    Yes, rotted posts can be replaced or reinforced with sister posts if caught early. If rot extends below the soil line, full post replacement is necessary for structural integrity. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC inspects posts thoroughly and recommends the most cost-effective repair method during fence assessments.
  • Do you need a permit to install a chandelier?

    Most basic fixture swaps don't require permits if you're replacing an existing light on the same circuit. However, new wiring or structural changes may need inspection. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC handles straightforward installations and advises when electrical work falls outside handyman scope.
  • What's the biggest mistake people make with deck maintenance?

    Skipping regular sealing is the most common mistake, leading to wood rot, splintering, and expensive board replacements. Colorado's climate accelerates deterioration without protection. At Fast Work Handyman Services LLC, we emphasize seasonal maintenance and proactive staining to extend deck life and preserve safety.
  • How often should you seal a deck in Colorado?

    In Colorado's dry climate with intense UV exposure, decks should be sealed every 2-3 years to prevent cracking and weathering. At Fast Work Handyman Services LLC, we recommend inspecting your deck annually and resealing when water no longer beads on the surface, ensuring long-term protection against Lakewood's seasonal temperature swings.
  • What's included in a deck structural tune-up?

    A structural tune-up includes inspecting joists and support beams, tightening loose fasteners, checking for rot or damage, and reinforcing railings and stairs. This preventive service identifies safety issues early and extends your deck's lifespan, especially important before Colorado winters.
  • Can you install a chandelier without rewiring?

    Yes, most chandeliers can be installed using existing wiring if the electrical box is properly rated and securely mounted. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC performs safety inspections to confirm weight capacity and electrical compatibility before installation, ensuring code compliance and safe operation.
  • What's the difference between touch-up painting and full repainting?

    Touch-up painting targets small areas like scuffs, chips, or trim damage with precision color matching and quick application. Full repainting covers entire walls or exteriors. For minor imperfections or detail work on baseboards and trim, touch-ups offer a faster, more affordable solution with professional results.
  • How do you fix a leaky pipe quickly?

    Most leaky pipe repairs involve identifying the source, tightening connections, replacing worn washers, or patching small cracks with epoxy or clamps. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC handles minor household plumbing fixes efficiently, preventing water damage and avoiding the need for major plumbing overhauls.
  • What causes drywall cracks and how are they repaired?

    Drywall cracks typically result from settling, temperature changes, or impact damage. Repairs involve cutting out damaged sections, applying joint compound, sanding smooth, and priming for paint. In Lakewood's dry climate, proper sealing prevents future cracking and ensures seamless ceiling or wall restoration.
  • When should you adjust door hinges?

    Adjust door hinges when doors stick, scrape the frame, or don't close properly due to settling or seasonal humidity changes. Tightening screws, shimming hinges, or realigning the door frame restores smooth operation. This simple fix improves security and prevents further damage to doors and hardware.
  • How do wooden fences hold up in Colorado weather?

    Wooden fences face challenges from Colorado's dry air, UV exposure, and freeze-thaw cycles, leading to warping, splitting, and fading. Regular staining, sealing, and seasonal preparation extend lifespan significantly. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC specializes in fence repairs and weather-proofing treatments to enhance durability in Denver-area conditions.
  • Why is gutter cleaning important before winter?

    Clogged gutters trap water that freezes and expands, causing ice dams, roof damage, and foundation issues. Cleaning gutters before winter ensures proper drainage and prevents costly repairs. In Lakewood, fall gutter maintenance is essential due to heavy snowfall and rapid temperature fluctuations.
  • What's the biggest mistake people make with deck maintenance?

    The biggest mistake is skipping regular inspections and waiting until visible damage appears. Rot, loose boards, and weakened railings worsen quickly, especially in Colorado's climate. At Fast Work Handyman Services LLC, we recommend annual checks and proactive board replacement to avoid safety hazards and expensive structural repairs.
  • Can you replace a ceiling fan with a chandelier?

    Yes, ceiling fans can be replaced with chandeliers if the electrical box supports the chandelier's weight and is rated for fixture mounting. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC assesses box stability, upgrades mounting hardware if needed, and ensures safe wiring during the swap for reliable, code-compliant installation.
  • How long does drywall repair take?

    Most drywall repairs, including patching holes and repairing cracks, take 1-2 hours for smaller jobs, with drying time adding a few hours before painting. Fast Work Handyman Services LLC offers quick turnaround times, allowing you to restore walls or ceilings efficiently without lengthy disruptions.