DIY Closet Remoldeling

A DIY closet remodel can clean up a disorganized space.

If your closet is sorely in need of remodeling, but you haven't got the extra cash to hire a professional designer to oversee the project, you can always do it yourself. Many modular and custom-order closet organization solutions are readily available at your local home improvement store and are fairly easy to install. This makes it possible for average homeowners to design and install a closet organization system that works best for them. From basic wire shelving to upscale-looking laminates, there's a closet remodeling option to suit your style, needs and budget. When it comes to DIY closet remodeling, most of the work is in the planning stage.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Graph paper
• Custom or modular closet units and mounting hardware
• Power drill and assorted bits
• Spackle
• Spackle knife
• Drywall sandpaper
• Paint

Instructions

Preparation

1. 

   Measure in three places on the wall to get an accurate measurement.

   Measure the height, width and depth of your closet and record the measurements. Most closets aren't square, so take your measurements at three locations. Use the smallest measurement of the three to make a scale drawing of your closet on a piece of graph paper.

2. 

   Determine storage needs by sorting clothing.

   Identify the types of storage you need. Sort or itemize the articles of clothing you have in your closet, and estimate how much space you'll need for each. For instance, you'll need about a foot of shelf space per pair of shoes and 42 inches for hanging shirts, jackets and cardigans.

3. 

   Check out closet organization materials at a home improvement store.

   Visit your local home improvement center to determine the types of closet remodeling options available. Compare these options to your storage needs, and write down the dimensions and prices of those that suit you.

4. 

   Design your closet remodel on paper first.

   Add possible closet organization solutions to your sketch. Placing shelf and drawer towers in the center of the closet and putting rods and other shelving on either side will create an attractive design. Consider which items in your closet you use most, and plan to locate them centrally for easy access.

5. 

   Once you've finalized your closet solutions, purchase or order them.

   Make closet organization unit selections based on function and budget first, then on style. Purchase or order your final selections from your local retailer.

Installation

1. 

   Empty your closet to prepare for the remodel.

   Remove all articles of clothing and other items from your closet. Sort them according to how they will be stored in your newly remodeled closet. Store them far enough from where you're working so they won't get damaged.

2. 

   Remove existing closet fixtures.

   Remove any shelving or closet rods from your closet. Spackle holes, allow the compound to dry and then sand it smooth. Repaint just the spackled areas or the entire closet.

3. 

   Install new closet fixtures using provided hardware.

   Measure and mark off the location of your closet organization pieces. Install them according to manufacturer's instructions, using the provided installation hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• When assessing your closet organization options, think about storing smaller items like ties, belts, socks and jewelry.

• Find room for a hamper in your closet to make it easier to keep the area clean.

• Paint or wallpaper your closet while it's empty. Consider choosing a bright color or interesting pattern to give your DIY closet remodel pop.

• Use interesting hardware on drawers to give your closet a custom feel.

• Locate and anchor heavy pieces directly to studs to prevent shelving, rods and other organizers from falling once shoes and garments are placed on them.

• Always check your local building code before beginning a remodeling project.

References

• Remodeling Magazine; Behind Closed Doors; Stephanie Herzfeld; October 2003
• How to Design Closet Space for Optimum Use; Tracy DeCarlo; September 2009
• Cramped Closets?; Tracy DeCarlo; September 2009

Resources

• Closet Pages; Closet Design Layout Tips; July 2010
• Closet Pages; Closet Measurement Guide
• Lowes; Design a Closet Organizer; 2011
• Tips and Tricks: How to Organize Your Closet; Cozy Closets