There are plenty of minor projects and big projects that the average homeowner can do to improve the look of their home, without having to hire costly professionals. Most homeowners can save money and add valuable appeal by tackling various home improvement projects alone.
Read through the following do it yourself tips and ideas; if you feel that you've come across a project that you can tackle yourself, be sure to seek advice from additional home improvement resources.
Ever considered installing new blinds? Home improvement stores offer a variety of blind colors and materials, starting from $30 and ranging in price upwards of $400 plus, depending on style and size. Replacing old unsightly blinds is an excellent way to spruce up a home that has been sitting on the market.
Installation is relatively easy and straight forward; minimal tools are needed-power drill, drill bits, and screwdrivers. Simply mark the holes needed to be drilled for the mounting brackets; using the indicated size drill-bit, drill holes using drill-bit appropriate for the type of material being drilled in to. Once mounting brackets are screwed in simply snap the blinds into place.
Ceiling fans and light fixtures are often easy to add or replace to areas of the house with preexisting wiring. Ceiling fans with lights can often be purchased new from between $200 to $500. For more lavish fixtures, chandeliers come in an assortment of designs and materials, and can cost upwards of $1000.
If replacing simple light fixtures-e.g. light above your doorstep, be sure to start by turning off the electricity at the fuse box. There are usually only two wires which need to be detached, then attached to the new fixture. Often these wires are red and black and the new fixture requires that you match the colors accordingly.
Fans often require more complicated wiring techniques, which will commonly be expressed on the box and detailed in the instructions. Fans that require complicated fans may require that you hire an electrician, but often the local hardware store has someone who can point you in the right direction.
Tools vary depending on the fixture being installed. Expect to need: power drill, screwdrivers, wire clippers and strippers, wire-nuts, and pliers.
Ugly bathroom countertops can sometimes be replaced or if need be the entire cabinet fixture can be replaced. If replacing the whole cabinet, the easiest approach is to replace it with the same sized unit. Measure the unit carefully before shutting off the water valves to the sink and removing the plumbing.
Plumbing is generally feared by most homeowners, but the reality is that there is no easier trade than interior plumbing. After shutting off the water valves, begin by unscrewing the water inlets from where they meet the sink. Catch the excess water in the hose by pouring it into a tub. Modern drainage pipes found under bathroom sinks can be dismantled by unscrewing the connections by hand. However, tools are often required for older drains.
Replace the old unit with the new fixture, ensure that it is level and plumb, then secure tightly to the walls. Do this by screwing wood nails through the wood cabinet, in appropriate places, and into the studs. Thinly apply caulking to countertop, where it meets the wall to prevent water run off.
You will need an assortment of tools for this job including: hammer, wrenches, caulk and caulking gun, and possibly multiple other tools. Be sure to consult further resources, including experts at the local hardware store for in-depth instruction on properly installing bathroom cabinets or on any other home improvement project.
