Who doesn’t love a little home improvement? It’s always great to refresh your home, whether it’s a massive renovation on a home you just purchased or a new coat of paint in the home you’ve owned for decades. You might be surprised, but you can do quite a bit of basic home improvement projects yourself. You don’t have to be a professional contractor or tradesperson–and don’t be intimidated by those big overhauls on TV, or those home renovation disasters when people bit off more than they could chew during COVID.
If you’re considering a small home renovation but are a little hesitant, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a beginner’s guide for taking on home improvements, to help steer first-timers in the right direction. We hope it helps!
Have the Tools for the Job
It’s always a good idea in general to have a basic tool kit handy. If you’re planning on starting a DIY project, one thing we recommend is not skimping on a tool kit. Quality tools will last a lifetime, and handle countless home improvement projects. Toolbox aside, please make sure to have the equipment you need and use proper hardware–don’t take shortcuts. Make sure you have painter’s tape, no matter how steady your hand is. Have a drill handy, no matter how much faith you have in your hand and screwdriver. Your projects will turn out so much better, and with far less aggravation.
Plan, Plan, Plan
We can’t say this enough. Don’t jump into any DIY or home improvement without a destination in mind, even if it’s something simple. For example, if you’re thinking about installing your own crown molding, think about the design first. Get some inspiration on Instagram or Pinterest. See if you find molding at your local home improvement that can be cut down to size. Make sure you have the tools (see above!), like a good ladder, hammer, screws, and nails. Create a budget and stick with it. Make sure you have assistance ready if you need it, too. Watch through YouTube and WikiHow tutorials–several times.
Don’t Be a Hero
There’s nothing wrong with a cool stone fireplace veneer project or refinishing the cabinets in the kitchen. But know your limits! There’s a reason why many home construction/renovation jobs call for seasoned professionals like carpenters, masons, plumbers, and electricians. In general, the more potentially hazardous the job is, the less you should consider tackling it on your own. Stay away from anything to do with electrical wiring or plumbing; a mistake here could potentially cause thousands of dollars of property damage or even be harmful.
Know What Projects Are in Season
Just like the trees, home renovation and improvement projects follow the seasons. In the summer, kitchen renovations are in: that’s how you’ll prepare sumptuous meals for your summer parties. In fall and winter when it starts getting colder, turn your attention to the interior–upgrade or redo your furniture and walls, since you’ll be more housebound. And then in spring, work on the exterior–spruce up the yard or front door to welcome the nice weather. By following these trends, you’ll have more options for your project, and possibly get a better deal. For example, you’ll have more choices for that backsplash you’ve been wanting to add in summer or might score a good deal on that new pillow set in autumn.
Here Are Some of Our Favorite Home Improvement Projects:
- Install a new chandelier or lighting in your kitchen
- Add your stylish backsplash to your kitchen
- Switch up the showerhead in your bathroom to a swanky massage or rain shower fixture
- Install a smart thermostat
- Switch out the cabinet knobs and hardware for new ones
- Add in crown molding and trim
- Set up a curtain rod with curtains that fit your home’s color palette
- Put in a ceiling fan (if your home is already wired for it!)
- Install a water filter into your sink or faucet
- Mount new shelves for extra storage or style
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