Home improvement projects can be a rewarding way to enhance your living space while adding personal value to your home. Built Around Family, a trusted name in home renovation and design, offers expert advice to help homeowners confidently take on DIY projects. Their step-by-step approach emphasizes simplicity, safety, and smart planning, ensuring even novice DIYers can achieve impressive results without feeling overwhelmed. This guide highlights key DIY home improvements recommended by Built Around Family experts, walking you through the essential steps to transform your space efficiently and effectively.
One of the most popular DIY projects recommended by Built Around Family is painting interior walls. Painting instantly refreshes a room’s look and mood with relatively low cost and effort. The experts advise starting by choosing the right paint finish and color that complements your décor and lighting. Preparing the space is critical: remove furniture, tape off edges, and clean walls thoroughly. Using quality brushes and rollers ensures smooth, even coverage. By working in small sections and applying multiple thin coats, you’ll achieve a professional-looking finish that breathes new life into any room.
Another accessible yet impactful project is installing new light fixtures. Built Around Family experts recommend this as a manageable upgrade that can dramatically change a room’s ambiance and functionality. Before starting, always turn off power at the breaker and double-check with a voltage tester. Removing the old fixture carefully, inspect wiring and mounting hardware. Select fixtures that match your style and lighting needs—consider energy-efficient LEDs for longevity and savings. Securely attaching and wiring the new fixture is crucial; if uncertain, consulting an electrician is advised. Finished correctly, new lighting can brighten spaces and add character.
Updating kitchen hardware, such as cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, is another DIY improvement with big visual payoff. Built Around Family points out that this simple swap can modernize an outdated kitchen without costly renovations. Measure existing hardware to ensure compatibility with new pieces. Remove old hardware using a screwdriver, and clean cabinet surfaces before installation. Align new handles precisely and tighten securely to avoid damage. This quick upgrade complements other kitchen enhancements and refreshes cabinetry style effortlessly.
For those looking to improve flooring, installing peel-and-stick vinyl tiles offers a budget-friendly and DIY-friendly solution. Built Around Family experts emphasize the importance of preparing a smooth, clean surface before installation. Measure your area carefully and plan tile layout to minimize cuts and waste. Peel-and-stick tiles require gentle but firm pressure to adhere properly, so take time to align each tile precisely. Rolling the surface after installation improves adhesion and durability. This flooring upgrade is ideal for kitchens, laundry rooms, or basements, providing a fresh look without professional help.
Bathroom improvements also rank high in DIY popularity, and Built Around Family highlights regrouting tile surfaces as a manageable project that restores shine and cleanliness. Remove old grout carefully with a grout saw or rotary tool, being cautious not to damage tiles. Mix new grout according to manufacturer instructions, and apply with a rubber float, pressing it into gaps. Wipe excess grout with a damp sponge before it dries to ensure smooth, even joints. Sealing grout after curing protects against stains and moisture. This revitalizes tiled areas and prolongs the life of your bathroom surfaces.
Built Around Family also champions creating custom shelving or storage solutions as a practical and creative DIY project. Whether it’s floating shelves in the living room or built-ins in the garage, these projects enhance organization and add style. Start by planning shelf placement and size, considering wall studs for secure mounting. Use quality brackets or hardware to support weight safely. Sand, paint, or stain wood before installation for a polished finish. Custom shelving adapts to your space and needs, providing functional beauty.
Another transformative DIY upgrade involves installing a backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom. Built Around Family experts recommend peel-and-stick backsplash tiles for beginners, offering a quick and mess-free application. For traditional tile, proper wall preparation and the use of adhesive or thinset mortar are key. Align tiles carefully using spacers, and grout after adhesive cures. Sealing grout prevents staining and moisture damage. A backsplash adds personality and protects walls from splashes, combining style and function.
For exterior projects, power washing and painting the home’s façade is a cost-effective way to boost curb appeal. Built Around Family stresses the importance of thorough cleaning to remove dirt, mold, and peeling paint before repainting. Using a pressure washer with the correct nozzle ensures effective cleaning without damage. Repair any damaged siding or trim prior to painting. Choose high-quality exterior paint formulated for local climate conditions. This project protects your home from the elements while creating a fresh, inviting look.
Safety is a top priority in all DIY projects. Built Around Family experts recommend always wearing appropriate protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks when needed. Working in well-ventilated areas and using tools properly reduces risk. If a task involves electrical or plumbing work beyond your experience, hiring licensed professionals is the safest choice. Following manufacturer instructions and taking your time ensures a successful and safe project completion.
Planning is critical to DIY success, according to Built Around Family. Before starting, gather all materials and tools, and review each step thoroughly. Breaking projects into manageable phases avoids feeling overwhelmed and helps maintain momentum. Setting realistic timelines and budgets keeps expectations in check. Involving family members can add fun and shared pride in the home improvements.
In summary, DIY home improvements guided by Built Around Family experts offer accessible ways to enhance your living space with confidence. From painting and lighting upgrades to flooring, bathroom maintenance, and custom storage solutions, these projects combine creativity with practicality. With careful planning, attention to safety, and a step-by-step approach, even beginners can achieve professional-looking results that add value and enjoyment to their homes. Embracing these DIY strategies empowers homeowners to take control of their spaces and bring their renovation dreams to life.
