Quarantine-friendly home DIY projects

Does all this time at home bring out your DIY side? As I’m checking in with friends, family and clients, I am hearing people are making different use of their time.  Some are baking away their blues, or the really lucky ones spending their extra minutes working out! But, if you are in the DIY camp, we’ve brainstormed a list that you will find useful--whether you are “sprucing to sell” or for your own enjoyment. There is nothing wrong with that! 

Our list of ideas capitalizes on tools/items you probably already have at home, and can tackle during your kid’s nap or your lunch hour. 

Change light bulbs: This may sound ridiculous, but I can’t tell you the number of homes we enter with missing or extinguished bulbs. Also consider reallocating light, making sure there aren’t any dark corners. The extra light can also lift spirits!  

Organize closets: Especially if you are considering selling, there shouldn’t be anything on the floor of a closet. Get rid of all your dry-cleaning plastic covers because they take up space and make it hard to maneuver. And, invest in felt hangers. They look so much nicer, and take up less space!

Grout: Fill in any holes or chips in bathroom grout. And if it’s discolored, scrub it down with an old toothbrush.

Caulk: After the freeze/thaw of a few winters, gaps in caulk can start emerging. It’s amazing how much fresher a space can look with a fresh coat of caulk!  Plus, a simple caulk application can prevent major leaks down the road.  

Clean windows: This may be longer than a few hour project, but start with the insides one day and move outside the next. Or go room by room! This is another project that makes such a difference and can lift your spirits when done also.  

Power wash all the things: Your front door step, outdoor rugs, outdoor furniture, exterior walls...the list goes on and on. And you cannot beat the satisfaction of a good power wash session. 

Landscaping: Refresh the look of your outdoor space by trimming your hedges, raking leaves and turning mulch. You can also order seeds and plant seeds as a project with your kids.  I am one who usually utilizes a landscaping company, but this year, I am going to plant my own plants as a project with the kids and a good way to save money.  

A lot of these projects are kid-friendly too, so get the whole family involved!