Home DIY Resource

There are so many different parts of your home that can be transformed and enhanced with a makeover or a bit of remodeling, and many of the tasks required are within the grasp of the average DIY enthusiast.

This guide takes a look at the various projects you can undertake, and provides resources and suggestions that you can use to give yourself a clear idea of how to tackle the job, what tools you need, tips on how to eliminate DIY difficulties, plus some guidance on when it is sensible to call in a professional to help with certain aspects of your project.

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Each section looks at the different areas in your home and what DIY projects you might want to consider to improve the look, functionality, and feel of your home.

There are tips and general suggestions in each section, plus a list of resources worth checking out for ideas and guidance on how to do each job.

The kitchen is the main hub of any home and gets a lot of use on a daily basis, so it will help if the layout and design makes the most of the space. It is also a good idea to keep on top of maintenance and repairs in order to keep your kitchen looking in top shape.

Updating your cabinets is an excellent way of giving your kitchen a makeover without having the major expense of ripping everything out and starting again. 

A good starting point for this project would be to make a list of any shelves or rails that could also do with replacing on the inside, as this is the perfect opportunity to strengthen and improve the units on the inside too.

Repairing and Replacing Shelves

A design option to consider is to remove your tired old cabinet doors and convert your kitchen cabinets to open shelving. This resource shows you how to do it:

• http://www.bhg.com/kitchen/cabinets/makeovers/how-to-convert-kitchen-cabinets-to-open-shelving/

If some of the shelves need replacing because they are bowed or unstable, look at this resource:

• http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-replace-shelves-in-kitchen-cabinets

This video tutorial shows you how to replace a shelf:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc2DWj7RIzA

Replacing and Repairing Cabinets

If the cabinets need fixing and repairing to put them back in good shape, take a look at this:

• https://www.familyhandyman.com/kitchen/diy-kitchen-cabinets/home-repair-how-to-fix-kitchen-cabinets/view-all

This tutorial shows you how to replace kitchen unit doors:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5x4YPIY1Nd0

Or here is a step-by-step guide to follow:

• http://kitchenwarehouseltd.com/blog/guide-to-replacing-kitchen-doors.html

This resource describes a range of budget options for updating your kitchen:

• http://www.idealhome.co.uk/kitchen/kitchen-ideas/update-your-kitchen-on-a-budget-68858

If you are looking for some inspiration for your cabinet door makeover:

• https://www.pinterest.co.uk/explore/cabinet-door-makeover/?lp=true

Another idea is refacing kitchen cabinets:

• https://www.pinterest.co.uk/explore/refacing-kitchen-cabinets/?lp=true

This pictorial guide shows you some easy ways to upgrade your kitchen cabinets:

• http://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/12-easy-ways-to-upgrade-basic-kitchen-cabinets-pictures

If you are wondering whether to reface or replace, this resource will help you decide:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/kitchen/cabinets-should-you-replace-or-reface

This guide promises to show you how to bring tired kitchen cabinets back to life:

• https://www.familyhandyman.com/kitchen/diy-kitchen-cabinets/how-to-refresh-kitchen-cabinets/view-all

DIY Tip- Don’t forget to update your cabinet hardware at the same time as this can help have a big impact on your kitchen makeover.

This resource offers guidance on updating with new hardware:

• http://www.sheknows.com/home-and-gardening/articles/970785/update-your-kitchen-cabinets-with-new-hardware

If you are looking for visual clues on which handles and pulls might suit:

• http://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/kitchen-cabinet-knobs-pulls-and-handles-pictures

This guide provides a summary of all the main considerations and offers tips on the best ways to update your kitchen:

• http://www.doityourself.com/stry/smallkitchenprojects

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Countertops

If you are updating your kitchen you might also decide to update and replace your countertops, or repair what you already have and give them a makeover.

This resource helps you choose the right kitchen countertops for your home:

• http://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/choosing-the-right-kitchen-countertops

For guidance on the right countertop surface material:

• https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1623075/list/kitchen-countertops-101-choosing-a-surface-material

This resource gives you the pros and cons of choosing a laminate countertop:

• https://www.familyhandyman.com/kitchen/countertops/how-to-select-laminate-countertops/view-all

If you want to spruce up your existing countertop:

• https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-countertops-1901065

This link offers tips on countertop care and maintenance:

• http://www.doityourself.com/stry/slate-countertops-care-and-maintenance

Sink and Faucet Repair and Replacement

If you are giving your kitchen a makeover or remodeling, you will want to make sure your sink and faucets are in good order.

You can learn here about how to replace a kitchen faucet:

• https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/faucet-repair/how-to-replace-a-kitchen-faucet/view-all

You might want to watch a video tutorial on how to replace a faucet:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj8f0oTEyZY

Updating Your Kitchen Floor and Tiles

Changing your kitchen flooring is a manageable DIY project that could be completed in a weekend and can help transform the look and feel of the room.

This resource offers guidance on how to choose the right flooring:

• https://www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/40025198/list/kitchen-planning-how-to-choose-the-perfect-flooring

If you have an open-plan design, this link guides you on which type of flooring to choose:

• https://www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/35070778/list/ask-an-expert-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-open-plan-design

Look at this for kitchen flooring inspiration:

• http://www.idealhome.co.uk/kitchen/kitchen-ideas/kitchen-flooring-ideas-91279

This resource will guide you in choosing the perfect tile:

• http://freshome.com/2010/08/20/6-tips-to-choose-the-perfect-kitchen-tile/

If you want to replace the underlayment, this guide shows you how:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/floors/how-to-replace-underlayment-in-a-kitchen

For guidance on how to remove floor tiles without disturbing cabinets:

• https://www.houzz.com/discussions/711563/removing-kitchen-tile-floor-without-taking-out-cabinets

For inspiration on easy flooring upgrades, take a look at this:

• https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/8-easy-flooring-upgrades

This video tutorial will show you how to replace your floor tiles:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeuV5-fLMTQ

Bathroom

A family bathroom sees a lot of traffic and it can soon look tired and dated, or things need repairing or replacing to keep it all in good working order.

Here are some DIY project ideas along with maintenance and repair resources to follow.

This resource offers a number of budget ideas on how to refresh the look of your bathroom:

• https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/28-ways-to-refresh-your-bath-budget

For more bathroom remodeling inspiration, take a look at this:

• http://www.homedepot.com/c/affordable_bathroom_remodel_ideas_HT_PG_BA

If you are looking for some tips on how to maximize your bathroom space, look at this:

• http://www.idealhome.co.uk/bathroom/bathroom-ideas/optimise-your-space-with-these-small-bathroom-ideas-90698

This link offers some pictorial inspiration for your bathroom makeover:

• http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/bathroom-remodel/before-and-after-20-incredible-small-bathroom-makeovers-pictures

If you have a small bathroom that needs renovating, this resource offers some ideas:

• http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/renovating-ideas-for-your-small-bathroom-215038

For plumbing know-how on how to replace your toilet, look at this guide:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/plumbing

For guidance on how to use a bath enamel repair kit, follow this link:

• http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/bathrepairs.htm

This guide covers a range of DIY how-to projects when you are remodeling your bathroom:

• http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/diy-how-to-type/bathroom.htm

This link guides you on how to replace a bathroom faucet:

• https://www.lowes.com/projects/bed-and-bath/replace-a-faucet/project

Here is video guidance on replacing a faucet:

• Instructional video for replacing a faucet

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Caulking

Caulk adds the finishing touch as well as sealing against water, but it is not always a DIY task that is that easy to master, despite its apparent simplicity.

This guide shows you how to seal properly:

• http://www.caulkyourhome.com/how-to-seal.php

You can also watch a video tutorial on caulking:

• Caulking guidance video

If you notice that your toilet is leaking despite sealing it, you can see here how to fix the problem:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/plumbing/how-to-fix-a-leaking-toilet

Paint Projects

You can quickly and easily improve the look of a room with a fresh coat of paint. This is the sort of DIY project that is within the reach of most of us and can produce great results with just a pot of paint, a brush, and a bit of your time.

Here are some DIY painting ideas and tutorials to consider. How to paint like a pro and improve your brush and roller technique:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/painting
• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-paint-a-wall-and-ceiling/CC_npci_100047.art
• http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/g110/interior-painting-tips-how-to-paint-your-walls-like-a-pro/
• https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/painting/paint-wall
• https://www.dulux.com.au/how-to/interior/how-to-paint-walls
• https://www.familyhandyman.com/painting/techniques/paint-roller-techniques-and-tips/view-all
• https://www.hamiltondecoratingtools.co.uk/knowledge-room/guides/how-to-roller-a-wall--avoid-the-framing-effect/41
• https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-use-paint-brush

Painting Ideas and Inspiration:

• https://www.pinterest.co.uk/explore/diy-painting/?lp=true
• http://homesthetics.net/top-31-amazing-diy-paintings-for-your-blank-walls/

Windows and Blinds

Your windows need checking and maintaining on a periodic basis for any leaks or signs of damage. Also on your DIY list will be tasks like repairing and painting the frames, plus aesthetic improvements like installing blinds and other fixings.

Try these resources for guidance and knowledge on fixing common window problems:

• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-repair-a-window/CC_npcart_400247.art
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/maintenance-and-repair/repairing/how-to-fix-common-window-problems
• https://www.familyhandyman.com/windows/repair/how-to-repair-old-windows/view-all
• http://kettyle.com/diy-advice-upvc-window-repairs/
• https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/windows-doors-and-floors/broken-window-repair-or-replace/

These links show how to fix broken blinds and slats:

• http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-fix-broken-slat-in-blinds/
• Fix a broken vertical blind slat

If you have vinyl sidings, this resource shows you how to carry out repairs:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/walls-and-ceilings/how-to-repair-vinyl-siding

Garden and Outdoor Living

Making the most of your garden and creating a useful outdoor living space is a perfect DIY project and can enhance the enjoyment of your home and even boost its value.

These links should provide you with some design ideas and inspiration:

• http://cutediyprojects.com/garden/give-your-backyard-a-complete-makeover-with-these-diy-garden-ideas/

These links show how to give your garden a makeover on a budget:

• http://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/garden-ideas/budget-garden-ideas-10-of-the-best-38720
• http://www.bhg.com/gardening/landscaping-projects/landscape-plans/great-garden-makeover-ideas/

If you have a large space to landscape, look at these:

• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/large-garden-ideas/PROD_npcart_100331.art
• http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/diy-how-to-type/garden-landscape.htm

Transforming your backyard:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/landscaping/beautiful-backyard-makeovers-pictures

Landscaping ideas:

• http://www.countryliving.com/gardening/garden-tours/g1432/landscaping-ideas/

Decking ideas:

• http://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/garden-ideas/garden-decking-ideas-48539

Once you have a design in mind, these tutorials and guides aim to show you how to do the job Installing a paver patio:

• http://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_install_a_paver_patio_HT_PG_OD
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/build-a-patio-with-pavers

These are for laying gravel:

• http://www.smithsbletchington.co.uk/how-to-lay-gravel-correctly
• http://www.uk-gravel.com/blog/gravel-laying-guide/

These are for building a deck:

• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-build-a-basic-ground-level-deck/CC_npci_100130.art
• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-build-a-raised-deck/CC_npci_100131.art
• http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-build-a-deck

These show how to install fencing:

• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-put-up-a-panel-fence/CC_npcart_400191.art
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/structures/how-to-install-a-fence
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/structures/10-things-you-must-know-about-installing-a-fence-pictures

These show how to lay a new lawn:

• http://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/maintain-the-garden/how-to-lay-lawn-turf/

Tips on how to install a pond:

• http://www.aquascapeinc.com/pond-installation-steps
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/hardscape/how-to-install-a-garden-pond

Home Maintenance — Weatherization and Energy Efficiency

Improving your home is not just about makeovers and remodeling as there are a number of DIY projects that can help keep your home safe and secure, and even cut your energy costs.

Here are some home maintenance and improvement tasks that are well worth doing.

These resources show you how to weatherproof your windows:

• https://www.greenoptimistic.com/weather-proof-home-windows/
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/topics/weatherproofing
• http://www.planitdiy.com/how-to/heating-cooling/weatherproofing-your-home-windows-and-doors/
• http://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_weatherproof_your_windows_HT_PG_BM

Insulation is a critical part of keeping your home warm and dry, and energy efficient. These resources show you how to go about insulating your home:

• http://www.doityourself.com/stry/upgradebattinsulate
• https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/insulating-old-homes/
• http://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-insulate-your-loft/CC_npcart_400221.art
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/storage-space/insulating-attics-and-roofs
• http://www.powerhousetv.com/Energy-EfficientLiving/Insulating/027605
• https://www.greenhomegnome.com/energy-loss-homes-insulation/

Electrics

It is wise to remember that there are many rules and regulations that you have to observe when it comes to electrical installations, and unless you are a competent and qualified DIY person, there are certain electrical jobs that are best tackled by a pro.

However, there are a number of DIY electrical tasks that are well within your scope and can be completed successfully and safely when you follow guidelines.

For information on how to replace a light fixture:

• https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/wiring/electrical-tips-replacing-a-light-fixture/view-all

This link shows you how to replace a bathroom light fixture:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/bathroom/how-to-replace-a-bathroom-light-fixture

If you want to replace a light fixture with a ceiling fan, this guide shows you how:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/electrical-and-wiring/how-to-replace-a-light-fixture-with-a-ceiling-fan

This gives you  guidance on how to install a ceiling fan:

• http://www.doityourself.com/stry/installceilingfan

This resource shows you how to install a dimmer switch:

• http://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_install_a_dimmer_switch_in_fourty_five_minutes_video_HT_PG_EL

There are many different types of bulb available, and these resources help you choose the right one:

• https://www.cnet.com/uk/news/light-bulb-buying-guide/
• https://www.americanlightingassoc.com/Lighting-Fundamentals/Light-Sources-Light-Bulbs.aspx

Essential Tool List

A key part of getting your DIY project right and avoiding any potential issues is to have the right tools for the job.

If you are going to be taking on a number of DIY projects it makes sense to fill your toolbox with the sort of items that you are going to be using regularly as a base, then buy additional items as and when you need them for each project.

These links run through a comprehensive list of the tools you will need to tackle many standard DIY jobs:

• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/tools/setting-up-a-basic-diy-toolkit-pictures
• http://www.handymanknowhow.co.uk/tools.htm
• https://www.buzzfeed.com/mallorymcinnis/handy-manny-has-nothing-on-you?utm_term=.kq8zjrPJz#.ur5mzLelm

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Top DIY Jobs to Leave to a Professional

Although this guide is aimed at providing you with the inspiration and resources to tackle a wide range of DIY jobs in and around your home, there are a number of projects that you should think about carefully before you attempt them on your own.

Before you take on a DIY plumbing job, check this guide:

• https://www.yellowpages.ca/tips/4-plumbing-tasks-best-left-to-the-pros/

This resource highlights five household tasks that you should not attempt on your own:

• http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/a3327/4269228/

This guide prompts you to answer a series of questions about your competency before you set to work on your DIY project:

• http://www.nextavenue.org/home-repair-when-not-do-it-yourself/

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