Buying your first home is the epitome of the American dream. And all new homeowners are eager to put their stamp on a newly-acquired piece of property. Think about it; who buys their first home and doesn’t want to change something? Of course, not everyone has deep pockets to help with updates and renovations, which means doing it yourself. Welcome to the world of DIY projects for first time homeowners. Before you break out in a sweat at the thoughts of needing a workshop full of industrial tools, though, be assured there are plenty of projects that require only a few basic tools and no experience. The six projects below can all be done on your own. You’ll save money, gain confidence, and earn bragging rights for your handiwork too.
- The #1 best DIY project is still good ‘ol paint. Nothing perks up a home like a coat of fresh paint. Even your curb appeal gets kicked up a notch when you paint your front door and house numbers. To choose just the right shades, upload photos of your rooms to the Sherwin Williams Color Visualizer tool and preview thousands of colors. While you’re at it, replace any old baseboards or repaint them as well. Paint can also transform your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. To retain the look of wood, you can use gel stain with stunning results.
- Replace old hardware (knobs, pulls, etc.) with new ones. If you choose pieces with similar attachment points as the original, you won’t have to drill new holes or fill the old ones.
- Tiling the backsplash in your kitchen adds huge appeal and can be done by almost any homeowner. Many home improvement stores offer classes on how to tile a backsplash, but there are plenty of tutorials online too. For the most DIY-friendly project, you can complete your entire backsplash within three hours with easy peel-and-stick tiles.
- Installing new light fixtures can be relatively easy and inexpensive. Converter kits make replacing dated recessed lighting with pendant lighting super easy.
- Get a grip on your grout. If your bathroom tiles look dingy, either do a major cleaning session or consider regrouting.
- Upgrade your shower head, Replacing your old shower head with one that allows you to choose your own flow settings and easily adjust the spout for different users is fairly simple. Regardless of the type you choose, you won’t need anything more than a wrench and maybe some plumber’s tape.
And now some words on safety: As convenient as it might seem to simply stand on chairs or buckets to reach something, don’t go there! Every homeowner needs a good ladder or two. Plus, knowing ladder safety precautions will save your back and keep you out of the hospital.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the most common tool-related injury is striking one’s own fingers with a hammer. Aside from that, here are some time-tested safety tips that all homeowners should know:
- Always inspect any power tools for signs of wear or damage, and make sure that all blades, drill bits, etc. are sharp, not only for safety, but for producing the best results.
- Always use the appropriate safety wear such as goggles, dust masks, and footwear and take care that your hair or any jewelry won’t get in the way.
- Always read the instruction manual when you first get a power tool.
- Before plugging in a power tool, make sure the power switch is off.
- Make sure your cords don’t create a tripping hazard.
- Never operate power tools if you’re feeling under the weather or drinking alcohol.
- Always keep children and pets at a safe distance when using power tools.
Now that you’re up to speed on safety precautions, have you picked a project? It’s time to roll up your shirtsleeves and get started! You’ve got this. Besides, what’s the worst that can happen? If you mess up, you can either start again or bring in a pro if you must. Whether you live in a Manhattan apartment or in a rural fixer-upper, may all your DIY projects lead you closer to living in the house of your dreams.