8 DIY Home Improvement Projects That Are Simpler Than They Look

There are endless home upgrades that can add value to your home, but they can be expensive and time-consuming. Some DIY home improvement projects can even seem intimidating. However, many are easier than you think.

Tackling home improvement projects on your own can save you a lot of money, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Before calling a professional to complete remodeling projects around the house, read through our guide to DIY home improvement projects that are simpler than they look.

1. Kitchen Makeover

Giving your kitchen a total refresh is a home renovation project that doesn’t necessarily require professional help. If you’ve always wanted to take a crack at interior design, giving your kitchen a makeover can be a great place to start.

A great do-it-yourself project to start with is refinishing your kitchen cabinets with a fresh coat of paint. If you’re upgrading your kitchen to add value to your home, select a paint color that will appeal to a wide range of buyers on the real estate market. You can also tackle slightly bigger projects, like updating the backsplash, changing the faucet, or adding a pop of color with an accent wall.

For larger projects like replacing countertops, installing shiplap, and hanging crown molding, you may want to get professional help.

2. Installing Windows

Though it may appear to be a difficult task, installing windows is pretty straightforward. While specialty windows may require additional know-how and skill, just about anyone can do a regular window replacement.

If you’ve got a few common tools and an extra pair of hands, replacing an existing window can be done in an afternoon. There are many written and video tutorials to help you along the way, but at a minimum, you’ll need the following:

• Caulk and caulking gun
• Drill
• Hammer
• Level
• Pry bar
• Tape measure

Once you’ve removed the old window, you place the new one in, screw it to the framing, and make sure it’s well-sealed with caulk. Replace any trim removed in the process and dispose of the old window.

3. Pressure Washing

Pressure washing your home’s exterior is key to maintaining its appearance and your health and safety. You eliminate potentially harmful mold and mildew when you pressure wash your home. Not only does mold detract from curb appeal, but it can erode your home’s siding and cause walkways to become slippery and dangerous.

While hiring a professional is an option, it isn’t necessary. You only need a pressure washer and a hose connection to give the exterior of your home a quick makeover. No special tools or cleaning materials are needed to complete the job, making it an easy DIY project.

4. Adding Storage Space

Adding storage space to your home is simple. You don’t need to hire a professional organizer or a builder to install shelving. Whether you need folding space in your laundry room, a coat rack in the entryway, or shoe storage in the mudroom, adding shelving and other storage solutions can usually be done in just a few hours.

Finding brackets for shelving on Amazon or at a home improvement store is easy. You can even customize your shelving brackets with a coat of spray paint. There are many websites and online resources devoted to home design hacks. They help you make sure projects like adding storage don’t detract from the whole room’s aesthetic.

5. Maintaining Your Gutters

Gutter maintenance can often be overlooked, but it’s an important job. Keeping your gutters clear of debris and leaves is critical to their performance. If gutters aren’t performing well, it could lead to problems with your roof and drainage issues in your yard.

Many professional roofers and painters offer gutter maintenance as a service. However, maintaining your gutters can be simple if you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to clear your gutters:

• Gutter scoops
• Hose
• Ladder
• Work gloves

When you clear your gutters, starting from the middle and working outwards is best. Any leaves remaining after the initial pass can be sprayed away with a hose.

6. Checking For Leaks

You may think you need to hire a plumber to deal with anything related to pipes and water in your home. While it’s true that calling a plumber is sometimes necessary for bigger tasks, checking for leaks is simple to do on your own and is an easy way to avoid unnecessary costs and damage.

Most often, making a few simple adjustments to the connections can fix household leaks. There is a wealth of resources online to guide you through the process of checking and fixing leaks, but you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Teflon tape
• Towel

A leaking showerhead can be remedied with the addition of Teflon tape, and a new flapper can fix a running toilet. Many simple DIY plumbing fixes are low-cost and can save you the significant headache of hiring a plumber.

7. Replacing Insulation

Making sure your home is properly insulated is critical to maximizing energy savings and maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. If your home is well-insulated, you can save up to 20% on your utility bills. Installing or replacing existing installation is easy and requires only a few things.

You’ll need to go into your attic and take a few measurements, so you’ll want to first make sure you have a ladder and a tape measure. Once you’ve measured the areas that are missing insulation or need replacement insulation, you can calculate how much insulation you’ll need.

After you’ve figured out how much insulation you need, you’ll also need the following:

• Dust mask
• Garbage bags
• Gloves
• Long-sleeved shirt and pants
• Utility knife

After you’ve got your supplies and insulation, you cut the insulation to fit and install it into any gaps. If you’re replacing existing insulation, make sure you’re wearing a mask and dispose of any old material.

8. Installing Smart Fixtures

Installing smart fixtures in your home can help with everything from making your home more energy-efficient to secure. Replacing fixtures in your home with smart ones is simple, and most replacements can be done fairly quickly.

Whether replacing your locks, light switches, and thermostats or adding a camera to your front door, you don’t need many tools or specialized knowledge. Most fixtures come with instructions in the box and only require a power drill or screwdriver.

Many smart fixtures come with their own apps and can be controlled from your phone, regardless of your location. These apps help you monitor energy usage, security, and more.

Final Thoughts

Taking on home improvement projects may feel daunting, but many of them can be done easily. Doing things yourself may help you save money in the long run and give you a great sense of satisfaction.

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