Many home renovation projects are not difficult. They can be successfully done by following instructions and being patient. You can save a lot of money doing the job yourself and have a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction when you are done. Here are some home renos you should consider doing yourself.
Installing Shelving and Closet Storage
Many shelving systems and closet storage systems are “ready to assemble” easy DIY projects that usually require few tools. Exact measurements and patience are necessary to get them done properly. Shelving, closet storage units, and even entertainment centers are available online or from home improvement outlets and shelving stores.
Update Electrical Outlets, Switches, and Fixtures
Switch and cover plates turn yellow, crack, or become dated. Add a dimmer switch to change the feel of a room. Or replace light fixtures that are old, dull, boring, or broken. Changing them is an easy DIY project if your wiring is up to code. Follow the directions that come with all new products. Most replacements can be installed with only a screwdriver.
Turn the power off before starting any electrical projects.
Hanging Wallpaper
Using wallpaper to change the look and feel of a room is a relatively easy DIY job. It requires few tools to install. Wallpaper is available in a multitude of designs and colors. You can paper one wall or complete rooms.
Wallpaper can be very expensive. The average cost is $7.50 per square foot of covered area. Paper for an 80 square-foot wall (10’ wide x 8’ high) costs around $600.00. Follow all directions and make sure you are comfortable doing the job before investing a lot of money.
Painting
Painting is not difficult and is much less expensive than hanging wallpaper. Prepping the room properly, moving and/or covering furniture, and cleanup usually takes more time than painting. The entire process is time-consuming but the results are gratifying. Whether you are painting a room, kitchen cabinets, or the front door, take your time. Usually, the worst result is having to paint over the job you did.
Change Door Handles and Hardware
Updating your door handles–especially replacing old shiny brass–improves the look of every room in the house–especially your front entry. Unless you buy fancier handles, all you need is a Phillips screwdriver for the job. Most handles have detailed instructions c/w pictures–making for an easy DIY job.
Replace the hinges at the same time to match the new handle colors. Replacing one hinge at a time saves you the trouble of having to remount the door. You should also change the doorbell and mailbox with matching colors to enhance your front entry.
Sealing Windows
Fixing drafty windows or installing storm windows makes your home more comfortable for winter. Both are simple DIY projects. Sealing windows usually require caulking, weatherstripping, and possibly plastic film to act as a barrier to heat loss. Check for gaps with a smoke pen and then fix the leaks.
Installing storm windows is easy and fairly quick. Second-story exterior windows are more challenging. Measuring and ordering is a little more complicated. Some standard-sized storm windows are available online but for custom units, you are better off ordering from a window supplier.
Replace Your Flooring
Tearing out your old flooring and replacing it with laminate, vinyl plank, or solid hardwood is time-consuming. You also need to buy or rent more equipment. The payback is cost savings and convenience. Professionally installed flooring usually costs $3.00 – $8.00 per square foot for labor. Installers prefer empty rooms. If you DIY the job, you can empty one room, install the flooring, move back in, and empty the next room as your schedule permits.
End Notes
Know what you don’t know. If you are not comfortable tackling a DIY project, hire a professional contractor. The benefits include quicker job completion and a warranty in exchange for higher costs.
