With the size and scale of the projects I complete on a day-to-day basis, I need other tradespeople to come and help me with the work. There is always a deadline, and so it’s rarely a one-man job. However, there are still times I have jobs (whether at home or the office) that I can do myself. Here are some of my favourite at-home DIY projects that you can do, too!
Bryan Baeumler is one of HGTV Canada’s go-to contractors and the host of Bryan Inc., House of Bryan and Leave it to Bryan.
Kitchen Backsplash
Installing a new backsplash is something that can be done with a little practice. I really enjoy redoing a kitchen backsplash because it makes such an impact and will instantly transform the space. There’s no better feeling than completing a job and seeing the fruits of your labour. See here for my tips on how to update your kitchen backsplash.
Painting
Everyone thinks they can paint, not like Michelangelo necessarily, but in terms of slapping some paint on a wall. To do it properly, however, it takes great skill and care, but if you have the time, it can certainly be done yourself. I find painting rather relaxing, as long as there isn’t a rush to get it done. Here are 10 painting secrets to help sell your home.
Window & Door Trim
This is a relatively easy job if you have the right tools. A mitre saw is a must! If you have carpentry skills, you should be able to finish off your new door by installing the trim yourself. But remember, when measuring for trim that will be mitred, always use the inside measurement. Price out your reno with these common costs for walls, doors and windows.
Baseboards
Installing or painting baseboards can really finish off your space. It’s another rewarding task, but it can be tricky to install new baseboards without the proper equipment. I recommend buying or renting a nail gun, and using brad nails to pin the baseboards to the wall.
Hardwood Flooring
Installing hardwood flooring can be one of the more rewarding jobs. It often means that the end of the project is near. Flooring also polishes off a space and really brings it to life. Make sure you read up on how to install hardwood before starting, but once you’ve done your research and planning, it isn’t too difficult. See here for the 10 biggest rookie flooring mistakes to avoid!
Wainscoting
Adding wainscoting to an empty wall is a simple way to uplift an entire room, lending dimension, texture and sophistication. It’s also not a particularly hard job. Again, you need the proper tools, and I would recommend buying a bit of extra material to practice. Make sure you have a level, which will be your best friend with wainscoting!
Vanity
If you want to give your bathroom or laundry room a new-and-improved look without much hassle, switch out the vanity. It’s an inexpensive update that will completely transform the room. Doing so is quite an easy job, too! Again, make sure you do your research and ensure the vanity fits the space, but once you have that sorted, the installation doesn’t require much craftsmanship.
New Plumbing Fixtures
Attempting serious plumbing work is not something I would recommend, unless you happen to be a plumber, but changing faucets or other fixtures can be an achievable task for most DIYers. You’ll need to understand how to turn the water off in your home (and buy a good wrench!), but as long as you read the instructions carefully, you should be able to complete this job yourself. Here’s how to fix a leaky faucet (and 10 more quick more repairs).
Replace Old Decking
I repeat, installing an entirely new deck is something I would leave to the professionals, but if a few planks have come loose or seem weak, switching these out is not a huge job. Just remember to paint or stain the deck before you install it.
Build Planter Boxes
I love building planters for the yard. It’s an easy piece of carpentry and doesn’t need to be finished to a high standard. You might need some help from a friend, but it’s something you can easily get done in a day. Happy renovating!
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