If the cold winter weather has exiled you to the couch — TV remote in one hand, a bag of chips in the other, and a disapproving spouse looking on — now is the time to get busy with some DIY home projects. Not only will they keep you active, but your come spring, you’ll have a sparkling home to show for it.
SargesList Blog, a military life publication, suggests these DIY projects to bust the winter doldrums:
Install a programmable thermostat: These thermostats adjust the temperature in the home at certain times of the day, according to your family’s needs. For example, if everyone is generally out the door by 9 a.m. and not back until 5 p.m., the thermostat lowers the temperature during those hours and automatically brings it up after 5 p.m. Programmable thermostats are relatively easy to install, add to the value of your home and save you money in energy bills.
Wrap your water heater with low-cost insulation: If you have an older hot water tank, check to see if it has R-value insulation of at least 24. If not, wrapping the tank in insulation can reduce heat loss by 25-45%, saving you 4-9% in water heating costs, according to Energy.gov. “If you don’t know your water heater tank’s R-value, touch it,” suggests Enegy.gov. “A tank that is warm to the touch needs additional insulation.”
Paint: Nothing refreshes a home more than a new coat of paint. Why not take on a painting project while the weather is keeping you inside anyway? Tackle those rooms and hallways where the paint has faded or been marred by fingerprints and other spots.
Refinish outdated kitchens and bathrooms: No need to renovate the whole room – just focus on cabinetry and you’ll see an immediate improvement. Paint or refinish the cabinets and add updated hardware. Voila, modern-looking room!
De-clutter: Winter is the perfect time to clean closets and drawers and donate unwanted items to charity. Use this time to get organized and you’ll thank yourself come spring!
Feeling like you want to tackle even more DIY home projects? Click here to check out our other remodeling and DIY blog posts more ideas.