It always looks so nice, doesn’t it? Those DIY speedsters on television that make it all look so easy. Saw here they say, glue there they say and you’ll be left with a masterpiece.
Well, art is subjective.
But even if you have two left hands and the feet to go with it, there are quite a few DIY jobs you probably could handle fairly easily at home without having to call “the guy” and incurring all sorts of costs. Mind you, we caution you to know who you are because some people absolutely should not be allowed within ten feet of a hammer and nail and if that’s you – start dialing.
The truth is though, that for most of us there is a long list of things that we could quite easily do around the house and sure, saving money is always a treat, the sense of empowerment is what we’re really after here.
Today light fittings, tomorrow – remodeling the attic.
#1 CLIMATE CONTROL
If you don’t know this yet, so much heat is lost in our homes during the winter months through spaces under doors, vents, and in between window frames. Blasts of icy wind force your central heating to work harder which drives up energy bills and causes “cold spots” in your home.
The fix: Find a brick or two, place them long-side by long-side and wrap them in some nicely colored fabric. Place these at the bottom of doors taking time to ensure that your design is wider than the door, and you’ve solved one of your draught problems.
#2 GIVE YOUR WOODEN FURNITURE NEW LIFE
Especially true for outdoor furniture that needs a little love. Anyone can sand down wood and then paint it or varnish it to give it some new life.
The fix: Identify the items that you want to be redone, get some help online to determine the grade of sandpaper you need as well as what type of varnish will work best for your item (or paint if you’re painting it)
#3 GARDEN MATTERS
When it’s time to give your garden a new look, you’ll be amazed at how many relatively simple tasks there are that you can take on. From turning the beds to weeding out the plants and even giving those garden stones a new lease on life, your garden is your oyster!
The fix: Have a look at the places in your garden that have been neglected or that could simply use some TLC and break them down into sections. Start with the most challenging jobs first, then move onto the easiest ones taking care to preplan what tools or equipment you may need.
When you add in changing light bulbs, refurbishing old fittings, and sealing the kitchen countertops, you’ll be very surprised at what you’re capable of doing, and the more you do and are successful at, the more you’ll want to do and learn.
You don’t have to become Bob the Builder, but when you find some great DIY home design ideas, you’ll quickly learn what’s possible for you – and what needs to go into the “call a guy” folder.
Have fun, and remember – safety first!
