We all like to improve our homes; something that adds comfort and value to our major investment and more and more Australian homeowners are turning to DIY due to the rising cost of labour. Of course, you start with easy projects; a cupboard or replacing a few doors, but as time passes and your skillsets develop, you will have more ambitious projects in mind. If you have access to all the tools and are looking for a new challenge, here are a few cost-effective improvements to add to your list of things to do.
- Bathroom Makeover – The best quality tiles from Amber Tiles in Sydney and a new colour combination is all it takes to brighten up the bathroom. Replace the blind and make some bespoke shelving, while luxury vinyl is perfect for the floor, with stunning stone and timber finishes. You can source all the materials from online suppliers and with trade prices, you will save some money and might even get free delivery.
- Loft Conversion – This might sound ambitious but turning the attic into a comfortable room is not that difficult. Of course, you must have a loft, and with a couple of skylights and extraction fans, you can clad the walls and floor with chipboard, boxing in pipes and wires. One interesting aspect is to build a set of dropdown steps that fold up when not in use. This is regarded as a major improvement and the extra room will boost the value of your home and if you are unsure, YouTube videos come to the rescue and you can watch them over and over until you’re sure of what to do. Click here for tips to make your home smart.
- Replace the Decking – This could be a simple replacement of the hardwood decking, or it could be to add some floorspace by extending the terrace, depending on how much space you have to work with. This is a relatively simple project and with online suppliers of quality Australian hardwood, you can buy what you need at trade prices, and if want a few design ideas, Google Images is your best friend.
- Stair Cupboard – If you have a staircase that backs onto a wall, you could box in the space underneath, making a handy storage cupboard. Carpentry skills will stand you in good stead as you come up with new projects; walk-in wardrobes and new kitchen cabinets are well within your capabilities.
- Engineered Flooring – Rather than solid timber, engineered timber is identical but much cheaper and that solid wood floor you want in the living room is affordable if you do it yourself with engineered timber. Hire a floor polishing machine and you can really bring up a shine and if you would like to see a few ‘how to’ videos, the Internet is full of them.
Working to improve the home is a great way to spend the lockdown and all of the above projects are well within your capabilities and with online tutorials, you have the perfect teacher.