How to Make Do It Yourself Home Improvements

Want to make some home improvements but can't afford to hire a professional. Your fixtures are outdated, floors need a facelift, wall color is drab or you simply just want a change. Below are some fairly simple tips for giving the interior of your home an update that most can do themselves.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Peal and stick linoleum of your choice (read the package to determine how much to buy)
• box cutter with extra blades
• measuring tape

Paint Can Make a World of Difference

1. Clear the walls. Move furniture to the center of the room and cover with plastic. Put drop clothes down to protect the floor.

2. Spackle nail holes or imperfections in the sheetrock. Allow time to dry before sanding smooth.

3. Tape off areas that you don't intend to paint such as ceilings and moldings.

4. If covering a dark color with a light color you may want to prime the walls first. Otherwise apply the first coat of paint, cutting in before rolling.

5. Allow time for the first coat to dry and cover with a second coat to prevent flashing and insure even coverage.

6. Once your new paint is dry, clean up and put everything back in place.

Address the Floors

7. Peal and stick linoleum is an easy way to dress up a worn floor. Prep first by cleaning the existing floor thoroughly, removing all wax and dirt.

8. Read the instructions. Start in the middle of the room, being sure to follow a straight line or desired pattern.

9. Carefully cut to fit pieces around the walls, cabinets and doorways. If necessary you can hide any mistakes with shoe molding.

Change Fixtures and Hardware

10. Changing out fixtures and hardware throughout your home is an easy way to update your kitchen or bathroom.

11. Be sure to read all instructions before attempting to install faucets or light fixtures.

Tips & Warnings

• Matching finishes on fixtures and hardware can make your home more cohesive and creates an appealing flow from room to room.
• Be sure and allow plenty of drying time between coats, otherwise you will lift the paint as you attempt to recoat.