Five Things You Can Do Yourself Around the Home

Home improvement projects can be both fulfilling and cost-effective, especially when you tackle them yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, there are plenty of home improvement tasks that you can handle on your own. From replacing doors to simple repairs, here’s a guide to five DIY home projects you can do yourself to enhance your living space.

1. Replacing a Door

Replacing a door is a manageable DIY project that can refresh the look of your home and improve functionality.

How-To:

1. Measure the Door: Measure the height, width, and thickness of your current door to ensure you purchase the correct size replacement.
2. Remove the Old Door: Unscrew the hinges and carefully remove the door from the frame.
3. Install the New Door: Position the new door in the frame, align the hinges, and screw them into place. Make sure that the door swings open and closed smoothly. You can buy internal door handles with Door Controls Direct.
4. Adjust Hardware: Install or adjust the door handle and lock as needed.

Tools and Materials:

• New door
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Drill (if necessary for new hardware)

Tip: If the new door isn’t pre-drilled, you may need to drill holes for the handle and lock. A door installation kit can be handy for this task.

2. Painting Walls

A fresh coat of paint can transform any room. It’s one of the simplest and most effective DIY projects.

How-To:

1. Prepare the Room: Remove or cover furniture and tape off edges around trim and ceilings.
2. Prep the Walls: Clean the walls and fill in any holes or cracks with spackle. Sand the surface until it’s smooth.
3. Apply Primer: Use a primer to ensure better paint adhesion and coverage.
4. Paint: Apply the paint using a roller for large areas and a brush for edges and corners. Apply a second coat if needed.

Tools and Materials:

• Paint
• Primer
• Paintbrushes and rollers
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths

Tip: Use high-quality paint for better coverage and durability. It’s often worth spending a little more on paint that has a longer-lasting finish.

3. Changing Light Fixtures

Updating your light fixtures is a straightforward way to refresh your home’s look and improve lighting.

How-To:

1. Turn Off the Power: Switch off the power at the circuit breaker before beginning work.
2. Remove the Old Fixture: Unscrew the old fixture and disconnect the wires.
3. Install the New Fixture: Connect the wires of the new fixture, mount it to the ceiling or wall, and secure it.
4. Test the Light: Turn the power back on and test the new fixture.

Tools and Materials:

• New light fixture
• Screwdriver
• Wire connectors

Tip: If you’re unsure about electrical work, consult a professional to ensure the job is completed safety.

4. Installing Shelving

Shelving provides extra storage and display space.

How-To:

1. Select Shelves and Brackets: Choose shelves and brackets that can support the weight of your items.
2. Mark the Wall: Measure and mark where the brackets will go.
3. Install Brackets: Screw the brackets into wall studs.
4. Place Shelves: Position the shelves on the brackets and secure them.

Tools and Materials:

• Shelves and brackets
• Drill
• Level

Tip: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs for securing the brackets.

5. Replacing Cabinet Hardware

Updating cabinet hardware can instantly refresh the look of your kitchen or bathroom.

How-To:

1. Remove Old Hardware: Unscrew old handles and knobs.
2. Install New Hardware: Align the new handles or knobs and screw them into place.
3. Ensure Alignment: Make sure everything is aligned and functioning properly.

Tools and Materials:

• New cabinet hardware
• Screwdriver

Tip: Measure the distance between screws for new hardware to ensure compatibility with existing holes.

Conclusion

DIY home improvement projects offer a great opportunity to enhance your living space while saving money. From replacing doors to installing shelving, many tasks can be tackled with basic tools and a bit of know-how. By taking on these projects yourself, you’re not only improving your home but also gaining valuable skills.

Always remember to plan ahead, follow safety guidelines, and seek professional help for tasks that require specialized knowledge. With the right approach, you can achieve great results and enjoy the satisfaction of completing your own home improvement projects.

Featured Photo by henry perks on Unsplash