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Completing strategic DIY home improvement projects can increase your home's enjoyment and potentially its market value. According to an analysis of 2020 home sales, certain features, like barn doors, were associated with homes selling faster, while radiant floor heating correlated with a price premium. This guide outlines projects from beginner to advanced, helping you prioritize based on your skills and goals.
Many homeowners struggle to find time for projects, with 43% citing it as their biggest challenge. The key is to start with manageable tasks. Always remember to turn off water and electricity at the source before beginning any project involving plumbing or wiring. Measure twice, cut once, and prioritize safety.
Beginner projects require minimal tools and expertise but offer immediate satisfaction. They are ideal for building confidence.
New Faucets: Installing a new kitchen or bathroom faucet can refresh a room's look. No advanced plumbing skills are needed, but attention to detail is critical to prevent leaks. The process involves disconnecting the old fixture and connecting the new one, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Light Fixtures and Switches: Updating a light fixture or replacing a standard switch with a dimmer can dramatically alter a room's ambiance. These tasks use basic wiring principles. Ensure the power is off at the circuit breaker before starting.
Smart Tech Upgrades: Many smart home devices are designed for easy installation. Smart doorbells, smart locks that eliminate the need for keys, and plug-in smart hubs can enhance convenience and security. Smart lights are as simple as screwing in a new bulb but require compatibility with your existing smart home system.
Fire Pit: A backyard fire pit is a family-friendly project that creates a focal point for outdoor living. Using a kit or following a plan for a simple stone or brick structure can be a rewarding weekend activity.
Intermediate projects often involve carpentry and can significantly update your home's style. They may require a helper and more specialized tools.
Cabinet Refresh: Instead of a full kitchen renovation, consider painting cabinets, replacing hardware (like door pulls), or removing some doors for an open-shelving look. This is a cost-effective way to achieve a modern aesthetic.
Barn Door: Replacing a traditional swinging door with a sliding barn door saves space and adds a striking design element. Based on our experience assessment, this feature is often sought after by buyers. Installation requires precise measuring and a second set of hands to hang the heavy door and track securely.
Advanced projects are labor-intensive and require skill, patience, and the right tools. They can offer substantial functional and financial returns.
Board and Batten: This classic wall treatment adds architectural detail and texture to a room. It involves installing thin wood strips (battens) over a baseboard to create a paneled effect. Precision with a level and miter saw is essential for a professional result.
Garden Shed: Building a garden shed from scratch requires advanced carpentry and roofing skills. It provides valuable storage or can be converted into a workspace. Numerous online plans are available to guide the process.
Heated Floors (Radiant Flooring): Installing a radiant heating system under new flooring is a complex project best attempted during a planned floor replacement. It involves laying down electric heating mats or hydronic tubing. This project requires confidence with electrical work or plumbing and precise mathematical calculations for layout. The resulting comfort can be a major selling point.
Before starting any project, research local building codes and permit requirements. While DIY can save money, know your limits; some tasks are best left to licensed professionals. The most successful improvements are those that you can complete safely and that enhance your daily life in your home.
