No one can dispute the fact that home improvement is no easy feat, no matter how experienced or skilled you are. If you’re a novice who is just getting started with their home improvement journey, there’s a lot to learn and it can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips and hacks to make your home improvement projects a success.
When tackling projects, it’s important to set realistic goals. Setting clear expectations will help you stay focused and motivated and will help keep you from getting overwhelmed and discouraged. Achievable tasks like painting a room or replacing a door handle are great for a novice to start with.
Keeping your budget in mind is key. You don’t wanna end up in a financial hole as a result of an ambitious home improvement project. Make sure to plan your project out and shop around for the best prices when it comes to materials and tools. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of DIY projects that require minimal materials.
For bigger projects, enlisting the help of a pro can save you a lot of money and time. Not to mention, you don’t have to worry about taking on more than you can handle. Can’t afford a pro? Ask friends or family for help. Chances are, someone will be willing to lend a hand.
Safety should always come first – wear gloves, goggles, and long pants when necessary. Don’t overload outlets with too many appliances and opt for surge protectors when needed. If you’re taking on an electrical project, don’t skimp on having the work inspected. Stay on top of maintenance – clear gutters, inspect wiring, and make sure your exterior doors are secure.
Dirty, time consuming projects don’t have to drain you. Invest in rubber gloves and basic house cleaning supplies and you’ll be amazed how dirt and grime can come off with just a few wipes. Unless you’re an expert, save bigger projects like tiling or plumbing for the pros.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative. Upgrading the furniture and decor in your home can create a whole new atmosphere, without having to spend a fortune. Get creative with paint – a different color in each room can give your home a completely fresh look. Set aside a day for flea market shopping or scouting out thrift stores to find one-of-a-kind pieces. The possibilities can be endless.
Upgrading Outdoor Spaces
Creating outdoor spaces for a novice should take into consideration ease of use and maintainability. There are several small to medium size projects that can be completed without much effort that adds charm and value to your property. Consider starting with one item such as an outdoor pool or pond, then move on to more detailed landscaping with flowers and plants growing in the flowerbeds. Other easy options are fire pits and hammocks, or making a potting shed or she-shed.
The best part about these type of projects is that they can be done in a weekend or less. This allows you to have an organized project while still being able to enjoy the hard work you put into it as quickly as possible. If you find yourself running out of ideas or if you plan on making your outdoor space a retreat, then consider consulting a landscape designer to help you out.
If starting out small is not enough to quench your thirst then take on larger projects that can add even more value to the property. Consider projects such as a concrete patio or walkway, possibly a fountain or outdoor shower. It really depends on what you envision and are willing to handle on your own.
Adding Kitchen Appeal
The kitchen is often the center of attention in any home and often being one of the most expensive remodel projects. However, starting out small can make a huge difference in the overall feel and look, without a large financial burden. For a novice, simple projects can include changing out cabinetry door knobs and pulls, putting in a backsplash, or even painting the cabinets.
Also, adding a counter-top or butcher block island can create actual space to store kitchen items or provide an extra work station. For someone who is looking to save money, shop online or the used-market to find good deals. Not sure about it? Check out a couple DIY guides for helpful tips.
When it comes to kitchen appliances, start small with upgrades like a new cook-top, or refrigerator. Not ready to take on major renovations? Consider adding a few accent pieces such as storage bins or hanging pots and pans. These are all effective ways to create a warm atmosphere in your cooking area without too much effort.
Living Room Inspiration
Living room areas can be one of the easiest projects for a novice to complete on their own. There are many cost-efficient options available to give any living room a new look without being a homeowner who has to take out a loan. Spruce up the area by repainting the walls, change the duvet cover for the couch, and accessorize with pillows and throws.
Also adding some wall art can give a dull living room new life. Invest in some new artwork that speaks to you, or make your own personal wall art such as canvas boards, picture frames, and string lights. Another way to make a living room area your own is to get creative with bookshelves. Fill them up with books, plants, and unique decorative items to showcase.
If you’re looking to modernize the area consider adding some more tech-savvy pieces. Try using a digital picture frame and adding the images of your loved ones, or adding a smart tv with access to your streaming accounts.
Bathroom Change
Bathrooms can often be the most secluded and private area in the home, however, small changes can give this area a big makeover. A novice may not be prepared to renovate a bathroom however, there are many other options to spruce up any bathroom.
Start with the basics such as replacing old fixtures or adding a fresh coat of paint and new towels. Browse the used-market and the internet for decor pieces that will help you build the atmosphere you’re looking for. Try adding a clock, or a jazzy shower curtain to make the room stand out.
If you’re looking to invest a bit more, consider replacing the vanity or adding hardware, such as a new doorknob or faucet. Also, you can always add an accent wall, while this will take a bit of work, its worth the effort. Let’s not forget about the overhead lighting, which is often an important detail in the ratio of available lighting.
Little tweaks such as changing the curtains can improve the atmosphere drastically. Opt for soft colors or textures that will make you feel relaxed every time you step in the bathroom. Also, don’t forget about adding greenery. Get creative with small plants in the shower or in other areas of the bathroom.
Maximizing Space
Living in small home or apartment can make things a bit crowded, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are some easy ways to maximize the amount of available space while giving your home a whole new look. Investing in multi-purpose furniture such as a bed with storage drawer compartments or futons instead of sofas, can save you tons of space.
You can also start with organizing projects like decluttering your closets or assigning designated spots for items like shoes and coats. This can really help with opening up the space and creating a less cluttered atmosphere. Maximizing home space can also involve using every bit of space available. Hang up shelves, make more closet space, or invest in items such as foldable tables or dual shelves.
Once you’ve got all the basics covered, get creative and think outside the box. There are plenty of DIY furniture ideas and repurpose materials that can help turn a dull space into something completely new and enjoyable. Experiment with the way you push furniture together or with adding hanging storage or a pegboard.
Storage Ideas
Storage ideas are the key to optimizing space in any living area. Many of these storage ideas come from using items that you already have right within your home that you may not be aware of. If you have a small bathroom or bedroom, think of alternative ways to use the space such as using a dresser for budding greenery. Install hooks and racks instead of cupboards to save space and consider using over-the-door hangers for wet towels and clothes.
In addition, utilize useful storage items like stackable bins, crates, and even drawers to space. You can get creative with reusing boxes, cutting them and turning them into unique containers or drawers. Over-bed storage can be a great way to optimize the space behind a bed, considering to make drawers or hang items like clothes and shoes.
Garage are infamous for being the area with the most clutter and disorganized items. If you plan on starting your own project in the garage, consider keeping all of the items you use for similar tasks together and hanging the tools which save lots of space. Also, storage shelves are incredibly helpful when it comes to garage organization.
The key to organizing your home is to think before you act. Take a look around your living space before investing in items that will help in optimizing the area. Utilize every bit of space available while creating clear boundaries between items. This way you won’t end up with an even greater mess.