The 6 Best DIY Home Projects

 

 

 

 

There are many DIY home projects you can do to improve your home. Some of these are simple and can be completed in a day or less, while others may be more time-consuming. No matter the project, planning and ensuring you have all the necessary supplies before starting is essential. Here are some of the best DIY home projects for homeowners and tips on how to complete each project safely and efficiently.

Painting

One of the quickest and most transformative DIY projects you can do on your own is painting, which also adds value to your home. Whether repainting an accent wall or giving your entire home a fresh coat, painting can be completed relatively quickly and with minimal supplies.

When choosing paint colors, consider the overall aesthetic you want for your home. Light and neutral colors are a good choice if you're going for a more modern look. For a cozier feel, opt for warmer hues.

Start by protecting your floors and furniture from paint splatters to begin painting. Drop cloths or old sheets work well for this. Once your surfaces are covered, tape off any areas you don't want to paint, such as trim or light fixtures.

Apply primer to walls that haven't been painted before or in a long time. Primer will help the paint adhere to the surface better and result in a smoother finish.

Once the primer is dry, paint the walls from top to bottom in small sections. Use a brush for corners and edges and a roller for larger areas. Work in long, even strokes, and don't forget to paint the trim!

Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and moving furniture back into the room.

Cleaning Gutters

Gutters are essential in protecting your home from water damage. Therefore, it's important to keep them clean and free of debris. You can complete this relatively easy DIY project while enhancing your home's curb appeal in a few hours.

Start by putting on gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from debris and bacteria. Then, remove any large pieces of debris by hand or with a garden trowel.

Next, use a hose to rinse the gutters and downspouts, flushing out smaller pieces of debris. If there is still dirt and grime remaining, mix a solution of water and dish soap and scrub the gutters with a soft-bristled brush.

Once the gutters are clean, inspect them for any cracks or holes. These can be patched up with caulk or gutter sealant. Finally, reattach any loose brackets or hangers.

Adding Insulation

Adding insulation is one of the best energy-efficient upgrades to ensure your home remains comfortable year-round. It's also a project that most people can do, although it may be more time-consuming than some other projects on this list.

Different types of insulation are available, so make sure you choose the right one for your needs:

 - Fiberglass
 - Cellulose
 - Spray foam

The first step is to determine where you need to add insulation. Check your attic, walls, floors, and crawl spaces for any areas that need to be insulated. Once you've identified these areas, measure the space to determine how much insulation to purchase.

Next, follow the instructions on the insulation product you've chosen. If you're unsure how to install insulation properly, many instructional videos and articles are available online.

After you've installed the insulation, check for any gaps or cracks. These can be filled with caulk or spray foam.

Once everything is sealed, your home will be better insulated against extreme temperatures, saving you money on energy bills.

Installing a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to save money on energy bills and keep your home comfortable year-round. Many models can be installed relatively easily, even for people with little to no experience.

Start by choosing the right location for the thermostat. It should be away from any heat sources, such as lamps or sunlit windows, and placed at eye level, so it's easy to read.

Next, turn off the power to your HVAC system at the breaker box. Once the power is off, remove the cover from your old thermostat and unscrew it from the wall.

Disconnect the wires from the terminals, noting which wire goes where. Then, attach the new thermostat's wires to the correct terminals.

Follow the instructions accompanying your model to program the thermostat to your needs. Once it's programmed, turn the power back on and test the thermostat to ensure it's working correctly.

Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to use smart-home technology to save energy.

Adding a Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans are a great way to keep your home cool during summer and warm during winter. They're also relatively easy to install, although some experience is helpful.

Before you begin, turn off the power to the circuit at the breaker box. Then, remove the old light fixture and disconnect the wires. Next, attach the mounting bracket to the electrical box using screws.

Lift the ceiling fan into place and align the holes in the bracket with the screws once the bracket is secure. Then, tighten the screws to secure the fan.

Once you've connected the wires, turn on the power at the breaker box and test the fan.

Replacing Old Windows

Old windows can be drafty and inefficient, costing you money in energy bills. Replacing them is a great way to improve your home's energy efficiency.

To remove old windows, carefully pry the trim and set them aside. Then, remove the window sashes and set them aside as well. Next, remove the stopped molding and any other obstructions.

Once the opening is clear, measure it to determine the size of the new window. Then, select a window that will fit the opening and has the features you want, such as energy efficiency or security.

To install the new window, first put in the bottom sash. After adding any necessary support brackets, add insulation around the window to ensure energy efficiency. Finally, add the top sash and trim.

For even more energy efficiency, consider interior shutters to keep your energy bills lower.

Ready to Get Started?

These are just a few of the best DIY home projects you can do to improve your home and its value. With a bit of time and effort, you can make your home more comfortable and efficient. Get started today to see what you can accomplish!