Residential Improvement Services
Minor Home Improvement and Exterior Cleaning
7 Simple Home Improvement Projects
Are you looking to spruce up your home but don’t know where to start? Or have you wanted to tackle a project by yourself but can’t seem to find the confidence to get going? If so, this blog post is for YOU! We all need a confidence boost every now and then, and the best way to gain it is to start small. We compiled a list of 7 Simple Home Improvement Projects that are perfect for beginners or hiring a professional. Whether you’re looking to make something new, or simply repair an existing item, this list has it all so you can start your journey into the world of home improvements! Let’s get started!
Home improvement projects for residential homeowners can include tasks such as painting, installing new flooring or countertops, replacing hardware, and adding landscaping features. Depending on your skill level and the tools available to you, there are many minor home improvement projects that can be easily completed.
Improvement Ideas for the Kitchen
Kitchen home improvement projects can often be intimidating to homeowners. From changing out cabinet hardware to applying a coat of paint to the walls in this high-traffic room, there’s plenty of potential for struggling with complex tasks. Fortunately, most minor kitchen improvements don’t require extensive experience and still provide great pay-offs when it comes to transforming the look and feel of your space.
One simple starting point is repainting your kitchen cabinets; this small change has the potential to brighten up any room. Additionally, consider switching out boring cabinet handles and knobs with more stylish options — this can quickly lend an updated look at a surprisingly affordable price.
For a more dramatic and longer-lasting improvement, consider replacing countertops. While complete replacement may be too labor-intensive for many novice homeowners, you can opt instead for a DIY kitchen countertop remodel that utilizes preformed countertop pieces called laminate skins that cover existing surfaces. This option not only speeds up installation time but also makes traditional repair or removal nearly impossible, which helps cut down on maintenance costs over time.
Whichever option you choose, having clear goals with manageable steps can make all the difference in successfully completing kitchen home improvement projects as a homeowner. From minor detail changes to larger upgrades, taking the initiative on these small tasks can make all the difference in transforming your space into an attractive and functional cooking area.
With these minor home improvement ideas under your belt, you’re ready to move onto other aspects of kitchen renovation like performing small fixes and repairs. The next section will delve into how to handle common problems encountered while tending to everyday kitchen maintenance.
Small Fixes & Repairs
Small Fixes & Repairs is the bread and butter of DIY projects. Whether it’s a handle that needs replacing or a small hole in a wall requiring patching, people can get a lot of use out of basic repair know-how. Probably the most common of these tasks include switches and outlets; from unplugging an appliance to replacing a switch plate, making simple repairs can save you a lot of time and money. A little bit of research could be useful for understanding how to fix basic items like caulking windows or repairing toilets. Fixing light fixtures, such as changing out a light bulb or removing its cover for access, is another skill that DIYers can easily pick up.
On the other hand, some small fixes and repairs can be more involved than initially expected, so make sure you read through the instructions thoroughly before starting on any major home improvement project. Additionally, ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment such as goggles or gloves before beginning a job.
Now that we’re familiar with making small fixes and repairs, let’s move on to bigger and bolder DIY painting projects!
Painting Projects
Painting projects can be an enjoyable and satisfying endeavor for homeowners. Painting can benefit a living space in many ways, including improving the atmosphere of a room, giving the space a new look, and increasing the value of a home. To get started, select a painted color that complements the room’s existing decor and furniture. Preparing a room for painting takes more than just putting up plastic sheets – it’s wise to also cover the flooring with drop cloths or tape off areas like windows, molding, baseboards, doors, and other features. Beginners should opt for quality brushes and rollers that allow them to paint with precision while avoiding drips and track marks along the edges. Some advanced painters may choose to invest in airless sprayers which produce a better finish but are more difficult to use.
Whether homeowners choose to hire someone else to help with painting is a matter of debate. While this option can reduce the amount of work needed to complete the project for large spaces or high-ceilinged rooms, doing the job solo will help homeowners hone their basic skills in interior design and learn some useful tips from experienced professionals on how to apply paint correctly and effectively. With either option, painting can give any space an attractive boost without much time or expense.
Now that we’ve discussed painting projects, let’s move on to installing new fixtures in our next section.
Installing New Fixtures
Installing new fixtures can be a great way to add a fresh, contemporary look to your home’s interior. The possibilities are endless when it comes to selecting the right fixtures – from light fixtures to door knobs and even taps. Although installing new fixtures is generally quite simple, there are still some things that you should remember for a successful project.
First of all, it’s important that you buy good quality fixtures that are specifically rated for the job you intend them for. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many DIYers make the mistake of buying cheap products that won’t withstand prolonged use or provide the intended result. Investing in quality products will pay off in the long run as they’ll look better and last longer than inferior products.
Secondly, make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting the project. Depending on what type of fixture you’re installing, certain tools may be necessary to complete the job correctly. This is especially true if you’re working with electricity or natural gas lines – it’s best to be prepared BEFORE starting work to ensure that everything is done properly and safely.
Finally, take the benefit of online tutorials and ‘how-to’ videos so that you can familiarize yourself with tedious details beforehand and ensure the installation goes as smoothly as possible. Even if you are an experienced homeowner, reviewing installation instructions and diagrams ahead of time can save you time and frustration during installation.
Once all installation work has been successfully completed, your home interiors will get a big boost aesthetically! Onward we go to the next section about “Minor Home Improvement Ideas for the Bathroom”.
Minor Bathroom Improvement Ideas
Installing new fixtures can be a great way for beginner DIYers to spruce up the interior of their home. Whether it’s replacing outdated flooring or adding new countertops to the kitchen, updating existing fixtures can be a simple way to add an element of luxury and appeal to any home. However, it is important that beginner DIYers exercise caution when tackling these types of projects in order to avoid any potential disasters.
When installing new fixtures, it can be helpful to first measure the area where they will be going. This helps ensure that mistakes are not made when it comes time to install them, as most fixtures come in specific sizes and shapes and need to fit into certain slots and holes with precision. It also helps to know what type of materials are being used as well, since some may require special adhesive products for installation or even additional tools or expertise.
In addition to preparing for the installation itself, beginning DIYers should also consider the cost of purchasing and installing new fixtures before taking action. Whereas some projects such as painting walls or replacing light bulbs may require minimal investment, bigger-ticket items can quickly add up if they are not researched carefully beforehand. Be sure to compare prices online and read online reviews prior to purchase in order to get the best-quality product at the fairest price possible.
Overall, tackling projects such as installing new fixtures can be a great way for beginning DIYers to give their homes a more luxurious feel while gaining valuable experience under their tool belts at the same time. Just remember to be cautious during the process and do research prior to purchase in order to achieve successful results.
Ready for something a bit smaller? In the next section we’ll dive into minor home improvements that you can make in your bedroom.
Wall Solutions and Decor
The bathroom is often one of the smaller rooms in the home, but it can have a big impact with its small modifications. It is important to always keep in mind the budget and the project size when tackling home improvement projects. Here are some minor home improvement ideas for the bathroom:
1. Replace Light Fixtures: Installing new lighting fixtures can make a big difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. Take it even further by upgrading to LED bulbs for improved energy efficiency.
2. Replace Cabinet Hardware: Simple yet effective, new cabinet hardware can instantly add a modern flair to any space. Even just changing out existing handles and knobs can go a long way towards creating an updated look.
3. Switch Out Towel Hooks: Replacing towel hooks or hangers provides an easy option for updating your bathroom’s style without investing too much money or time on a larger renovation project.
4. Paint the Cabinets: With some time and practice, painting over cabinets is an accessible DIY for novice DIYers when done correctly; additionally, if you select high-quality paint, you can expect these results to last longer than cheaper alternatives.
5. Add a Soap Dispenser: Adding a soap dispenser to your sink countertop keeps things neat and tidy looking while eliminating surfaces that need scrubbing on a regular basis; not only does this reduce cleaning time but makes for beautiful décor as well.
Updating any of these five minor home improvement projects in the bathroom will give it an attractive upgrade without breaking the bank. Now that we’ve discussed minor home improvements to refresh your bathroom, let’s move onto wall solutions and decor – two aspects of home improvement that go hand in hand when designing any room in your home.
Installing New Fixtures
When it comes to wall solutions and decor, the possibilities are endless. A few quick DIY projects can produce a range of effects, from rustic and classic to modern and artsy. The first project is to add color through painting or even wallpapering. Painting walls can be a great way to freshen up a room; however, some argue that wallpaper is better for achieving custom designs. Whatever your preference, adding color and personality to any space can often be the easiest and most transformative home improvement project for beginners.
Next, find ways to hang pictures and art in an interesting way. There’s no need to stick solely with traditional picture frames; utilizing DIY methods like clothespins on strings running along the wall or washi tape on the walls can create gallery-style displays at a fraction of the cost. Another great option is to make shelves or install floating shelves mounted directly onto the wall, either using pre-made shelves or custom-built boxes. This is a great way to organize clutter while also displaying decorative mementos and knickknacks in style.
Finally, those looking for a statement piece should consider adding a wall tapestry or area rug. Tapestries and rugs come in all shapes and sizes, making them ideal for bringing character into any room without breaking the bank. Wall hangings not only look beautiful but they’re also functional – they can help regulate temperature by keeping out drafts from windows as well as reduce noise levels from outdoors.
All these projects are simple enough that beginner DIYers should feel comfortable attempting them – though it always helps to do some research ahead of time for tips on tackling tricky spots! With these wall solutions and decor in place, now let’s move onto installing new fixtures in order to complete our home improvement project.
Minor Improvements for the Bedroom
Creating a comfortable and peaceful bedroom atmosphere is essential for anyone who wants to reinvigorate their living space. One of the easiest home improvement projects that beginner DIYers can tackle is minor home improvements for the bedroom. To get started, try adding a unique, personalized touch with new accessories or decorations that are affordable and easy to install. If you’re looking for something extra special, consider purchasing a wall decal or mural to add a pop of color and texture to your room for an enjoyable visual experience.
If you’re feeling more ambitious, think about repainting the walls or ceiling in your bedroom. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for any room in the house, giving it an entirely new look and feel. For those who are limited in terms of their painting skill set and tools, smaller-scale projects like painting one accent wall can be a great way to update your bedroom without too much effort.
On the other hand, if you’re feeling uninspired by traditional decorating ideas, why not turn to technological innovations? Smart thermostats connected to smart hubs are becoming more popular every day and offer a simple yet effective way to upgrade any bedroom with just a push of a button. These devices also provide advanced environmental control settings, allowing homeowners to set temperature levels according to their own personal preferences.
Finally, don’t forget about comfort! Make sure that your bed is as cozy as possible by investing in quality linens and cushions for maximum relaxation. In addition, look into purchasing a specialty mattress if necessary – different people have different sleep preferences based on body type and age, so it’s important to invest in one that meets your individual needs.
With each of these minor home improvement projects for the bedroom, you can create the comfortable space of your dreams while also increasing the value of your home. Now let’s explore how lighting solutions can take your project up another notch!
- According to a 2019 report from Houzz, 43% of homeowners conducted some kind of minor home improvement project in the previous year.
- The most commonly reported residential minor home improvements were painting (31%), DIY projects (27%), bathroom upgrades (24%), and kitchen updates (23%).
- A 2020 survey found that the average cost of a residential minor home improvement project is approximately $2,300.
Top Summary Points
Creating a comfortable and peaceful bedroom atmosphere is an important home improvement project that beginner DIYers can take on. There are many small steps anyone can take, like adding decorations or repainting for a new look, utilizing technological innovations for environmental control, and making sure to invest in quality linens and cushions for comfort. Finally, don’t forget proper lighting to bring the new space together.
Lighting Solutions
When beginning a DIY home improvement project, lighting is often the last piece of the puzzle. However, with the right tools and knowledge, one can make an impactful change with minimal effort. When choosing lights for your space, there are two main approaches: natural or artificial light.
Natural Light
Natural light is considered to be the most sustainable and cost-efficient option. Light from the sun provides a glare-free environment that can lead to improved productivity and well-being. Large windows or skylights can bring in ample amounts of daylight, allowing you to get the most out of your home’s lighting system without needing any additional sources of electricity. If you choose this option, opt for sheer window treatments that can maximize natural light exposure while providing privacy.
Artificial Light
Artificial lighting is convenient and often more adjustable than natural light. With a wide array of energy-saving bulbs to choose from – incandescent, halogen, CFLs, and LEDs – it’s easy to find one that will suit your needs and budget. Furthermore, many of these higher efficiency options have advanced dimmers which allow you to customize the amount of brightness in any room for maximum comfort.
Ultimately, both natural and artificial lighting have their benefits, but when it comes to home improvement projects there are certain aspects to consider, such as costs, longevity, and efficiency. Consider both approaches before making a decision so you can create the perfect lighting atmosphere for your home.
Now that lighting solutions have been discussed, we will explore the next step in home improvement projects: painting ideas.
Painting Ideas
Adding a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update any room. Whether you’re a beginner DIYer or looking for a weekend project, here are some painting ideas to jump-start your creative process:
Choose an Accent Wall: For an easy and subtle way to add color to any room, choose one wall as your accent wall. Go bold with a bright hue or stick to neutral shades for a more airy look.
Paint Furniture: Take furniture from drab to fab with a quick coat of paint. Choose muted tones or make a statement with electric colors. The choice is yours!
DIY Geometric Wall Art: If you want something a bit more intricate, then try creating geometric wall art. From hexagons to chevrons, experiment with shapes and colors for your own unique work of art.
No matter which style you choose, remember that when it comes to painting, care and patience are key. Make sure you cover the floors and furniture with drop clothes, sweep the walls and take your time when applying the primer and finish coats.
Now that we have discussed several painting ideas, let’s move on and take a look at some minor improvements that can be implemented in the living room.
Living Room Improvements
Minor home improvement projects for the living room give DIYers an opportunity to refresh their existing décor and improve their living space. Adding decorative touches, such as framed artwork or color accents on the walls, can give any space a personalized appeal that reflects the inhabitant’s unique style. Choosing furniture pieces with contemporary styles or vibrant colors can also brighten up a dull room.
The great thing about minor home improvements is that they don’t require major overhauls or extensive effort. Simple tasks like replacing tired throw pillows or curtains can do wonders in uplifting the atmosphere of a living room. If you have more ambitious plans, consider incorporating low-cost but visually impactful features like crown molding around windows and fireplace mantles. Even something as simple as reupholstering chairs or sofas can spruce up a living room instantly.
On the other hand, there are benefits to keeping things more traditional. After all, not everyone wants bold patterns bursting in every corner of their living area. A neutral palette and subtle highlights might be more calming and realistic for those living on a budget and don’t have access to high-end furnishings. Items like blown glass vases or eye-catching abstract sculptures made from recycled materials are popular options for these particular taste preferences too.
Now that you know what minor home improvement projects to tackle in your own life, it’s time to move onto creating aesthetic solutions with home décor!
Home Decor Solutions
Home decor solutions are a great way for beginner DIYers to bring freshness into their homes and create inviting spaces. Whether you’re looking to completely refurnish a room or just give it an uplift with some modern accents, home decor projects are fairly inexpensive when compared to larger remodeling projects.
On the other hand, beginning your home decor can be challenging. It requires creativity, color coordination skills, and a good eye for design. You must also consider the layout of the room, what type of furniture is best suited for its purpose, and how it should all be laid out. For those considering quick home decorating changes without spending too much money, there are several economical solutions that still provide impressive results.
Minor details such as new paint or wallpaper can add volume to any room while making it look bigger. Replacing curtains with more colorful options can have a tremendous effect on the atmosphere of any room. The addition of designer pillows and accent rugs will give extra little touches that will please everyone in the family.
For those brave enough to embark upon more ambitious decor projects, there’s no better way than mixing old with new. Combining antiques with modern lighting designs often produces memorable outcomes with minimal effort and costs associated. Adding artwork sourced locally creates interesting focal points that help define each area within a room. With some minor refinishing and fabric selections, salvaging thrift store finds can be effective methods for creating unique pieces for your masterpieces-in-the-making.
No matter the size or scope of your home decor project, there are dozens of creative ways to achieve remarkable results on budget. Next up, we’ll cover minor landscaping projects that won’t break the bank but still make a big difference around your residence!
Minor Landscaping Projects
Minor landscaping projects can help to instantly improve one’s home. These projects are typically not too costly and can help to give a home a much-needed facelift. In addition, some minor landscaping projects can help to increase the property value of a home.
There is a lot that a homeowner can do to beautify their outdoor space. One popular option for DIYers is to plant flower beds or window boxes for vibrant pops of color. This is an attractive way to spruce up any property as well as bring in an interesting mix of scents.
Another popular landscaping project involves edging sidewalks or walkways with stones. Not only does this lend a polished look to any home, but it also helps to keep weeds and other vegetation from growing uncontrollably on your walkway.
Depending on the size and scale of the home, some DIY buyers may opt for installing fencing around their property or investing in stonework for a border around the property line. Installing fencing and stonework can be more expensive options, but they make for great investments in one’s property, whether it’s for aesthetic purposes or for keeping nosy neighbors out.
Regardless of what DIYers decide to do with their outdoor spaces, it is important that they take into consideration any relevant building codes before starting a project. Furthermore, it should be noted that many city governments will carry out inspections on all projects after they have been completed, so making sure that all landscaping looks professional is essential.
With the right supplies and understanding of the building codes in their area, novice DIYers can easily tackle minor landscaping projects in no time. It’s important to remember that though such projects can take some time and effort, they are often very much worth it both physically and financially when all is said and done.
Now let’s explore some exterior improvement solutions that won’t require you to break ground outside your home.
Exterior Home Improvement Solutions
Take pride in your home’s exterior with some simple and straightforward home improvement projects! Practical solutions, such as weatherproofing, can easily increase the value of your property while providing a better aesthetic. There are two main options when considering exterior home improvement solutions; DIY or hiring a professional.
When it comes to the DIY route, tasks like cleaning and painting siding are both reasonable projects for beginners. Furthermore, novice DIYers who feel up to the task can also install new windows, fix minor repairs in decks or patios, or lay down additional outdoor flooring like concrete pavers. Additionally, inexpensive materials can be found online or at local home improvement stores to aid in any project.
On the other hand, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the experts! Major renovations such as replacing roofs and siding are certainly complex tasks that require experience and skill. Larger projects such as installing fiber cement siding, stucco siding, or stone veneer will most likely require a contractor who understands the structural integrity of your property. The cost of hiring professionals may be higher upfront, but the work is often more reliable and efficient than DIY tactics.
Regardless of which route you choose to go, there are quite a few easy and dependable solutions available for improving your home’s exterior! Both sides have advantages that make them consider each option carefully before committing to a decision. After all is said and done, move onto the next section about an effective way to spruce up your home on a budget– inexpensive fixes!
Inexpensive Fixes
Do-it-yourself home improvement projects don’t always have to involve expensive materials and complex labor. Crafting a fresh look for your interior or exterior can be done with some simple, low-cost fixes. For example, give your home an inviting aesthetic with a fresh coat of paint on the walls or outside siding. If you want to spruce up the windows, new curtains or blinds can easily do the trick for much less than a remodel. And if you’re looking to upgrade a room without replacing furniture, throw pillows and area rugs are a great way to bring in color and texture at an affordable price.
These inexpensive updates offer significant benefits not only from a financial standpoint but also from an environmental standpoint. Low-cost fixes are generally easier on resources compared to those that require more materials – meaning fewer waste products going into landfills. Furthermore, when tackling DIY tasks directly, you avoid sending purchased items through additional production processes that can strain the environment by using more natural resources.
So although it is possible to complete big projects yourself while saving money and being green, taking care of quick and easy improvements is still beneficial in creating a comfortable living space without putting too much strain on the pocketbook or on the planet. With this in mind, let’s take a look at the more involved jobs such as structural installations and repairs.
Structures Installation & Repairs
Whether installing a new structure or repairing an existing one, this is often a job better left to professionals. Structures involve heavy machinery, power tools and significant construction knowledge, so it can be dangerous for untrained individuals to take on these tasks.
Installation of new structures such as sheds and fences involves a great deal of planning and precision. This can include measuring distances, ensuring the necessary permits and licenses are in place, excavating sites as necessary, hoisting materials into place, ensuring foundations are secure and level, using hammers, saws and drills to piece together boards or other materials. Errors made during installation can be costly, which is why professional help can be invaluable in getting the job done right the first time.
Repairing existing structures requires similar considerations, but with the added complexity of salvaging parts that may already be damaged. As well as the physical labour involved in assessing and replacing any broken pieces, good analytical skills are required to understand what caused the damage and how it can be avoided in future. If repairs are not carried out correctly they may end up costing more money in the long run if further damage results from incorrect fixes. Hiring an experienced tradesperson is therefore recommended if repairs are necessary.
Safety should always be a top priority when considering any structure installation or repair project. Working with potentially hazardous materials carries risks for both property and people, so projects involving power tools or heavy lifting require appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) among other things. Professional tradespeople will have access to the proper safety protocols, supplies and knowledge of local zoning laws that those attempting DIY may not possess. Completing jobs in compliance with all relevant regulations minimizes any potential legal issues later down the road if problems were to arise from non-compliant workmanship.
All things considered, for most homeowners, structure installation and repairs should best be left to professionals who know how to do them correctly in order to ensure the best results while also keeping everyone safe.
Responses to Frequently Asked Questions with Detailed Explanations
What tools and materials are needed for minor home improvements?
For minor home improvements, the tools and materials needed will depend on the project. While many DIYers opt for power tools like a circular saw, drill driver, and jigsaw, basic hand tools like hammers and screwdrivers are typically enough to get most projects done. Common materials such as screws, nails, glue, paint, tape, wood planks, and sandpaper may also be necessary. Additionally, safety supplies such as goggles, work gloves, masks and dust sheets are important to have at hand before starting a home improvement project. Finally, it’s beneficial to have an organized toolbox where all of the necessary equipment is kept together with easy access.
Are there any safety considerations to be aware of when completing minor home improvements?
Yes, it is important to take safety considerations into account when completing minor home improvements. Depending on the project you are working on, you may need to wear protective gear such as a face mask and goggles if there is dust or debris. Additionally, any electrical wiring should be managed by a licensed electrician. For example, if you are re-tiling your bathroom floor you will need to turn off the power supply to avoid electrocution. Finally, it is important to prioritize proper ventilation: paint fumes can be hazardous if adequate ventilation isn’t provided. In summary, by taking steps to ensure proper safety while completing minor home improvement projects, you can complete the job safely and with confidence.
What are some examples of minor home improvements to a residential property?
1. Painting: You can easily have a huge impact on the look of your home with a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out. Paint can be used to update walls, ceilings, trim, and furniture, and you can use a variety of colors and textures to completely personalize your space.
2. Lighting: Updating your lighting can add drama and ambiance to any room in the house. Light fixtures come in all shapes and sizes, so you can get creative with your choices without breaking the bank.
3. Landscaping: Adding trees, shrubs, flowers, and other landscaping elements will improve the look of your property while providing a great outdoor living area. Plus, you can enjoy the relaxing sounds of nature while spending time outdoors!
4. Flooring: Simple flooring projects like replacing carpets or adding laminate will instantly spruce up any room in your home.
5. Kitchen/Bathroom Upgrades: Update faucets, showerheads, tile backsplashes and countertops for an entirely new look that won’t break your budget.
6. Storage Solutions: Installing shelves or cabinetry for storage can add function as well as beauty to any room in the house.
7. Electrical Work: From updating wiring systems to installing new outlets and switches, minor electrical work is an essential part of many residential home improvements.