Performing your own home improvements doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but people experienced with remodeling, repairing, and improving their homes know that a few simple tips and tricks can make a huge difference. If you’re thinking of embarking on some new home improvements, bear the following tips in mind to make sure everything goes right and nothing goes wrong.
Every piece of real estate is subject to building codes, the savvy land buyer will research these codes well in advance of making a purchase. Without proper research, the requirements imposed by local codes and zoning regulations can present a nasty surprise to land holders who intend to build a new home or improve an existing one.
Design a renovation with an eye to creating built-in storage. For example, a broom closet can be reborn into a small pantry, or you can add floor-level shelving to a coat closest for shoes and bags. If you are renovating to sell a home, the benefit of the added storage can be the deciding factor in a buyer’s decision.
When looking to improve the value of your home, remodeling a bathroom can be a great step to take. Simple bathroom remodeling steps can include painting, changing out fixtures and installing new tiles. More elaborate efforts can include replacing bathtubs, toilets and sinks. Whatever route you choose, you’re sure to see an increased home value when you update your bathroom.
Self adhesive drywall patches are a must-have home improvement. These patches come in many forms ranging from mesh drywall tape to those made of a polymer material. Press them carefully into place using an iron. Be careful not to scorch the patch or the wall surface. Paint right over the patch and you’ll never know it’s there.
Before investing in new hardwood floors, check with a professional, about looking at the current floors in your home. Sometimes, you may have beautiful, natural hardwood hiding underneath layers of carpet or linoleum, that is just waiting to be refinished. You will wind up with a nicer looking, higher quality floor for less money.
One way to save money and energy is to buy a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. A programmable thermostat will allow you to specify what temperature you want your house to be at any given time or day throughout the week, even when you are away from home.
You can dress up pillows in any room which can be a simple project. Make pillowcases using old jeans, band t-shirts or interesting fabrics. This can add personality and lighten the mood in a young teenager’s private space.
Home improvement stores are the center of all home improvement projects. Not only do the stores sell everything you need to start a project, the staff tends to be knowledgeable and can help you if you ever get stuck. Many stores also offer classes on how to effectively improve your home yourself.
Make sure before you get started in remodeling your basement that you have kept in mind heating, cooling, proper ventilation and dehumidification of the area. If you have enough headroom, your heating, cooling and much of your electrical equipment can be hidden behind a false ceiling. Prepare to hire a heating contractor to help you with your basement project.
These simple tips should have helped you see some new perspectives on home improvement, which will get you thinking creatively about what will work and won’t work in your own home. Learning to think cleverly about how you make improvements will be a valuable skill as you gain experience and tackle more complex home improvement jobs.…