Owning a home for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it comes with its share of responsibilities, to include maintenance, remodeling, and repairs. Not to mention, it’s rare that anyone moves into a new abode that’s 100 percent perfect, be it from a taste perspective, or wear and tear. While you should leave heavy hitter projects like electrical work, roof replacement, structural changes, tree removal and complicated plumbing work to a pro, there are several other jobs that are considered DIY. Here’s how to get started.
Safety First
Before anything else, you’ve got to make sure you’ve got a grasp of the basic elements of safety that need to be addressed when working on a DIY project. For example, it’s not everyday you use power tools, so make sure you remember to unplug each tool after each use and never leave it unattended while it’s still running. More than 90,000 people are treated in the emergency room for ladder-related accidents each year, so make sure you’re not using a damaged ladder and are choosing the right model to support your weight — it also needs to be the correct height for the job at hand. Make sure it’s placed on firm and level ground and never attempt to move positions while in use. Proper attire also is a must to include avoiding loose-fitting clothing, tying back long hair, wearing supportive and protective shoes and having safety goggles and earplugs on-hand.
DIY Projects To Consider
Everyone has a different skill set, so what may seem like the perfect DIY project for you may be intimidating to someone else. Here are some of the most popular tasks you can try your hand at.
Get Creative With Paint
There’s a lot more you can do with a can of paint and a brush than paint the walls. Other cool DIY ideas include painting a dresser, the interior “nooks” of a bookshelf, or a headboard or end table — kitchen cabinets are an option, too depending on the material. When you’re done with the can, paint it with the residual paint, wash it out and use it as a planter for herbs.
Update Your Flooring
To be clear, this is not a major resurfacing job — that requires a pro — but you can handle projects like laying a cork, tile or vinyl tile floor; painting a checkerboard pattern, or epoxy-coating a garage floor all on your own.
Replace Your Faucets
Corroded, dingy faucets show age, and if you can’t do an overhaul on an entire room, replacing the faucets with a new model is a small change that can have a big impact. It’s an easy fix that’s relatively inexpensive — just make sure you purchase a faucet that matches up with the current holes that were drilled for your old piece.
Refresh Your Bathroom
If the vanity in your bathroom reminds you of when you visited your grandmother’s house as a kid, it’s time for an update. Resurfacing the tub can also make an older bathroom look more modern and polished. Complete the look with new hardware for towels and a fresh shower curtain.
Revamp The Entryway
First impressions are everything, so consider replacing your front door, updating the mailbox and any front-of-the-house lighting. You should also consider adding some curb appeal in the form of attractive landscaping — potted plants work as well.
Nothing is more rewarding than putting time and effort into something you own. Keep in mind that as much as you may be enthusiastic to tackle a project yourself, don’t let driving factors like money prohibit you from hiring a professional if you feel as though you bit off more than you can chew. Along with making mistakes that could cause costly repairs, safety should always come first when it comes to working on a home project.