Simple DIY House Projects to Kick Off 2020 Right

Homeowners know well that minor home improvements are a constant necessity to avoid larger issues or to keep the pleasing design elements that make it unique, comforting, and a source of pride.  These house projects are affordable and can be completed inside during winter months.

Touch up Interior Walls

Paint
The chances are good that your interior walls have noticeable scratches and holes from hanging artwork, hitting furniture against them, and other mishaps.  These are especially noticeable when you take down holiday decorations but are likely always apparent to guests that come over.  Patching paint is easy and hardware stores can match colors to make the job look seamless.  Just remember to clean the area, repair holes in drywall, and prime before getting started.  Click for more details on paint touch ups.

Wallpaper
Strategic pops of wallpaper can add a good amount of character to a living space, and it’s easy to install with temporary peel-off options as well.  Think about placing wallpaper as a kitchen backsplash, in the space under the bar, within drawers and cabinets, bathrooms or as an accent wall.
Here are more tips to get you started on this project: https://www.thespruce.com/tips-for-selecting-the-perfect-wallpaper-3437597.

Bathroom and Kitchen

Epoxy
Over time, the porcelain or other bathtub finish can wear or chip off, exposing the metal base underneath.  The metal will rust and erode enough to make a hole in your bathtub.  Epoxy can be applied to the metal surface to repair the missing finish.  An epoxy repair kit will typically cost between $5.00 - $20.00 and it easy to apply.  Bathtubs can cost from $200 - $10,000 depending on the quality and features and will likely require professional installation.  Which is preferable?

Caulking
Caulking makes nice, clean lines between walls and floors adjoining tubs, faucets and toilets.  It also protects against leaks behind walls and in flooring that cause water damage and dangerous mold.  If your caulking is cracking or separating, leaving gaps, it’s time to replace it.  Click for details on how to caulk properly.

Resurface Wood Furniture

Scratches and fading in wood furniture can make an elegant piece look used and worn.  There’s a variety of products such as wood colored markers and crayons that can hide surface fading and scratches.  For deep scratches, cracks, or sun damaged fading, varnishing the surface may garner the best results.  Check out this article on how to varnish wood: https://www.wikihow.com/Varnish-Wood.

Happy New Year, and remember, if you have larger home repair and improvement projects, ELA Home Repairs has licensed contractors for the job!

Call 800-368-7767 or visit www.elahomerepairs.org for a free referral to a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor.