Category Archives: Home Renovation | Repair

The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the home, so it makes sense that we want it to be one of the best. But keeping a kitchen at its best can get expensive if you’re constantly hiring renovation crews. While some jobs require professionals, you can readily do other jobs yourself. Keep reading to learn about the kitchen improvements you can make yourself.

Install a Range Hood

With the right equipment, you can install a range hood vent yourself. This update will improve your kitchen’s appearance, clean your air, and provide task lighting above your stove. Read through the manufacturer’s instructions, and then measure the area for installation. You’ll need wire strippers, ducting, a cutting tool, a wall cap, a full caulk gun, and a drill with drill bits.

Update the Hardware

For a simpler DIY project, update the hardware on your cabinets and drawers. You could paint the handles a new color to make them stand out, or switch them out for a different style. This is a subtle way to update your cabinets without intensive painting. All you’ll need for this project is a screwdriver and the new hardware, or a bucket of paint.

Add a Pot Hanger

Another small project that will make a big difference is adding a pot hanger or a pot rack. Pot hangers instantly free up space because they keep pots, pans, and large utensils out of the way but still accessible. To add a pot rack, the necessary installation tools will vary. For smaller wall-mounted pot hangers, you’ll need a stud finder, a drill and drill bits, and a tape measure. Larger racks that hang from the ceiling will also require those tools, in addition to ceiling screw hooks and a chain.

Improve Lighting

Your kitchen probably has overhead lighting, but you can improve lighting in task areas by adding additional light sources under cabinets. There are several options to choose from, including rope lights and puck lights. Whichever option you choose, you’ll need a tape measure to ensure the lip of your cabinets is deep enough to hide lights, a pencil to mark where the light will go, and a screwdriver with screws to secure the light. Place the lights at the front of your cabinet’s bottom for optimal task lighting.

Installing a range hood, updating hardware, adding a pot hanger, and improving lighting are all kitchen improvements you can make yourself. While bigger projects will require professional help, these projects will improve the look of your kitchen without too much difficulty.

Security gadgets are great and all, but real home security starts with your fencing.

A fence is essential when you own any kind of property. It’s even part of the classic American Dream. Though this concept has changed throughout the years, the importance of safeguarding a piece of land stayed the same.

Some homeowners are comfortable living fence-free. If you fall into the category of those unsure about fencing their yards, these four top reasons to install a fence on your property might convince you.

Safety

Homeowners frequently use fences as a measure of security. Without fences, your home has no boundary. An unwanted visitor could walk right up to your front door. Even if it’s not total protection against intruders or package thieves, it’s your first line of defense.

In addition to securing you against criminals, your fence can also protect you from car crashes. A barrier can keep you safe from an out-of-control vehicle if your property is near a busy road. If you have kids, fencing is also an excellent way to keep them from running into the street.

Privacy

Many people are naturally extroverted and enjoy a spontaneous conversation with a neighbor. You, however, may not be as outgoing. Perhaps you’d like to garden or read a book alone without dealing with small talk. If that’s the case, get a fence.

You can enjoy maximum privacy with a tall vinyl fence. You won’t have to worry about nosy neighbors watching your every move and you can do whatever you want in your yard.

Aesthetics

One of the top reasons to install a fence on your property is, of course, the aesthetics. You can’t have a visually pleasing home without an elegant structure surrounding it.

If you want your fence to complement the overall appeal of your property, you can choose from a variety of fence types from hardware stores. Gorgeous fences don’t have to be natural; a metal fence can be just as attractive. It’s just a matter of personal taste.

Boundary

When you first move in, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is to label your property line. Knowing where your land starts and ends is advantageous in the long haul, as it can assist in the resolution of possible neighbor conflicts, especially if the issue turns ugly and winds up in court. Although this is unlikely to happen, it’s always a smart idea to prepare.

There are many reasons why you might want to get a fence. Think long and hard about the investment before you decide but know that you’ll reap many benefits from having a good fence installed on your property.

An approaching winter storm can incite chaos for many people, whether they rush to the store for supplies or keep their snowblowers on standby. Preparing yourself for what’s to come is essential. Fortunately, you can take extra steps to prepare your home for harsh winter weather—check out these tips for preparing your home for a winter storm.

Stock Up on Food and Water

Winter storms can make travel challenging, and in some cases, road closures and excess snow can make leaving your home impossible. Therefore, it’s critical to stock up on food and water before a winter storm hits. Make sure you have nonperishable foods as well as a case of water on hand. If you’re wondering what nonperishables to purchase, check out this list:

• Rice
• Instant soup mix
• Canned vegetables and meat
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Breakfast cereal
• Granola bars
• Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate

Winterize Your Home

One of the best ways to protect your home from a storm is to winterize it. You can start this process in the fall or early winter. Check the windows and doors for drafts, and use weather-stripping to keep out the cold air. In addition, you can wrap exposed water pipes and trim any tree branches that hang over your home or car. Doing the latter will prevent the branches from falling under the weight of snow and damaging your roof or vehicle.

Consider Installing a Metal Roof

A preventative step you can take for winter storms is installing a metal roof. Metal roofing material can withstand harsh weather conditions and keep your house warm, and it won’t suffer damage from falling tree branches or excess snow. Winter roof installation is possible if you decide to seek out a metal roof now. Talk to roofing contractors and create a plan.

Have Access to Portable Power

The power can go out during winter storms or extremely cold weather. Therefore, it’s essential to have access to portable power. You can purchase a power station or portable generator as a temporary power solution. You can also purchase a camp stove, since if you have an electric stove, you won’t have access to it during a power outage. A camp stove uses butane fuel for power.

Winter storms can create chaos for many people. Whether you’re scrambling to buy supplies or preparing to undergo deep shoveling, preparing yourself for what’s to come is essential. We hope our tips for preparing your home for a winter storm were helpful to you.