When something breaks, do you fix it, or is it time to buy something new?
Have you ever had something around your home stop working and immediately thought, “Well, I guess we need a new one!”? Maybe it’s a set of blinds that no longer opens properly, an appliance that has started making a funny noise, a favourite chair that has seen better days, or even a pair of shoes that just needs a little attention.
I think most of us have been there.
We live in a world where convenience is king. When something breaks, replacing it can seem like the quickest and easiest solution. There are new styles, updated features and plenty of options available with just a few clicks. Sometimes replacing something really is the best decision, but I wonder how often we skip the repair option without giving it much thought.
Recently, I came across something happening in Europe that made me stop and think about our own habits here in Calgary.
A European Approach to Repairing Instead of Replacing
Did you know that Sweden has used tax incentives to encourage people to repair certain everyday items rather than throw them away and buy new ones?
According to the Swedish Tax Agency, repairs to items such as shoes, clothing, leather goods, bicycles and household linens are subject to a reduced value-added tax (VAT) rate of 12%, compared with Sweden's standard rate of 25%. The goal is to make repairing existing items more attractive and encourage people to extend the useful life of things they already own.
It is an interesting approach to a problem many of us face. Sometimes, the cost of repairing an item, finding someone who can fix it or simply figuring out where to start makes buying something new feel like the easier choice.
Europe has also been moving toward broader consumer protections around repairs. The European Union's right-to-repair rules are designed to make repairs more accessible and affordable for certain products, including washing machines, vacuum cleaners and mobile phones.
You can read more about these changes in the European Commission's article: read here
Of course, Canada's tax system and consumer protections are different, and these European incentives do not apply here. But the underlying idea is worth considering: what if we became a little more intentional about repairing the things we already have?
What Does This Look Like Around Our Homes?
Our homes are full of things that need maintenance, occasional repairs and, eventually, replacement. The challenge is knowing when each option makes the most sense.
Here are a few everyday examples.
1. Blinds and window coverings
Have you ever had a blind stop working because a small component broke? Before replacing the entire set, it may be worth checking whether the mechanism, cord or other part can be repaired.
Window coverings can be surprisingly expensive, especially when you have several windows to outfit. A small repair might save you money while allowing you to keep something that still looks great.
2. Appliances
A refrigerator, dishwasher or washing machine that stops working can quickly become an expensive headache. Before assuming it needs to go, consider getting a repair estimate.
Sometimes the problem is a relatively simple component. Other times, the repair cost, age of the appliance, energy efficiency and likelihood of future problems make replacement the smarter investment.
The key is to compare the options rather than automatically choosing one.
3. Furniture
A scratched table, a wobbly chair or a sofa with worn fabric doesn't necessarily need to end up at the landfill.
Tightening joints, refinishing wood, replacing cushions or reupholstering a favourite piece can give it a whole new life. Older furniture can sometimes have a quality of construction that is difficult or expensive to find in newer pieces.
And sometimes, a little character is exactly what makes a home feel like home!
4. Doors, handles and hardware
A loose cabinet handle, sticking door or broken drawer runner might be a relatively straightforward fix. These are small jobs that can make a noticeable difference in how your home functions every day.
Before planning a full renovation, it can be worthwhile to look at the smaller details that could be repaired or refreshed.
5. Clothing, shoes and everyday essentials
This one goes beyond home maintenance, but the same principle applies. Replacing a zipper, mending a seam or resoling a good pair of shoes can help you get more use out of things you already own.
Sometimes we become so accustomed to buying replacements that we forget there are skilled people in our communities who make a living repairing things.
Choosing repair can also mean supporting local businesses and tradespeople.
Repairing Can Be Good for Your Budget, Too
As homeowners, we know that expenses can add up quickly.
There is always something to maintain, update or improve. From seasonal maintenance to unexpected repairs, owning a home requires planning and a little flexibility in the budget.
Being thoughtful about what we repair and what we replace can help us make more informed decisions.
That doesn't mean choosing the cheapest option every time. A repair that costs nearly as much as a new appliance, for example, may not make financial sense if the appliance is already nearing the end of its useful life.
Instead, consider a few questions before making a decision:
What will the repair cost compared with replacement?
How much longer is the item likely to last?
Will the replacement be more energy-efficient or perform significantly better?
Is the item worth keeping because of its quality, usefulness or sentimental value?
Could a simple repair solve the problem without creating unnecessary expense?
These questions can help us make choices that suit our homes, our budgets and our priorities.
Taking Care of Our Homes Doesn't Always Mean Buying Something New
When we think about homeownership, we often focus on the exciting things: decorating, renovating, choosing new finishes or finding ways to make a space our own.
But caring for a home also means looking after what we already have.
Regular maintenance, fixing small problems before they become bigger ones and making thoughtful decisions about replacement can all play a part in keeping a home in good condition.
There is a balance, of course. Some things are beyond repair, and sometimes upgrading makes sense. Safety, efficiency and long-term value should always be part of the conversation.
But perhaps the next time something stops working, we can pause before heading straight to the store.
Maybe the first question doesn't have to be, “What should we buy?”
Maybe it can be, “Can this be fixed?”
Your Turn: Are You Team Repair or Team Replace?
We would love to hear what you think!
Are you someone who likes to fix things and get every last bit of use out of them? Or do you prefer to replace something when it starts giving you trouble?
Maybe you have a favourite piece of furniture you've restored, an appliance you've managed to keep running for years, or a simple home repair that saved you a surprising amount of money.
What's one thing you've repaired around your home that other people might have automatically replaced?
Share your stories and tips with us. We are always interested in hearing the creative ways people care for their homes and make the most of what they have.
At Russell Realty, we believe that a home is more than just a property. It's where life happens, memories are made and countless little decisions help make a house your own.
Sometimes, looking after that home doesn't require a big renovation or a shopping trip. Sometimes, it just takes a little time, a thoughtful choice and the willingness to see whether something can be fixed.
Building relationships, one home at a time.