Whether you’re planning to sell your home or are just excited to improve your living spaces, a common concern is the cost of renovations. Do-it-yourself projects are a great way to tackle updates while saving money. Here are a few DIY home improvements to maintain and spruce up your home on a budget.
Clean the Gutters
An essential home maintenance task involves cleaning the gutters. Harsh weather can take a toll on the downspouts and gutters, especially if heavy rains accompany it. Cleaning and maintaining the gutters extend their lifespan and protect your home from water damage.
Faulty gutters and downspouts lead to driveway cracks, foundation damage, landscape erosion, and interior flooding. These damages are expensive, costing much more than paying a company to clean the gutters. This is a project you can DIY. A ladder, gutter scoop, bucket, gloves, and a garden hose are all required. If leaves frequently clog the gutters, install mesh gutter guards to block the channels while allowing water to flow through.
DIY Home Improvements: Faucet Repair
A leaky faucet wastes water and may lead to water damage. Faucet repairs are usually simple enough to DIY. There are different types of faucets, and it will be helpful to research the kind before making repairs.
A few basic tools will be necessary, but these can be purchased at a hardware or home improvement store. Bathroom and kitchen faucets are easy to take apart and reassemble. Take note of each part of the fixture. Taking pictures as you dismantle the fixture will provide a guide to reassemble the faucet.
Hang Art on the Walls
You do not have to be an art enthusiast to appreciate the impact of wall art in your home. Shop online or local galleries to find artwork for your living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. Antique stores, flea markets, and secondhand shops are great places to get vintage artwork. Choose pieces you enjoy that complement the style and decor of your home.
To hang art, start by measuring your wall and marking out the same size space on the floor. Place the artwork on the floor to practice the placement that you like. Use a level to make sure to hang it evenly.
Check the AC Filters as Part of Your DIY Home Improvements
Another important DIY maintenance project is cleaning or replacing the AC filters. Filters get dirty over time, and dirty filters circulate mold and allergens throughout your home.
Replace the HVAC filter every 30 to 90 days or as the manufacturer recommends. This boosts the efficiency of the heating and cooling system and extends its life expectancy.
If you are not afraid to get your hands dirty, you’ll save money by undertaking simple DIY home improvement projects. Keeping up with maintenance around the house will keep your home in excellent condition and help you avoid costly repairs.
St. James Home Services offers inspections to customers in Durham and the surrounding areas in North Carolina. If you’re selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.