Which Home Improvement Projects Can I Do Myself?

If you want to improve your home but aren’t ready for the cost or commitment of a full renovation, DIY home projects can be a great alternative. In this article, we’ll discuss a number of different projects that you can tackle yourself. Some are simple, some are a little more involved, some can make a major difference to your home, and some are minor updates, so whatever you’re looking to do or however handy you are, there’s a project here for you!

With a bit of creativity, the right tools, some instructions, and the willingness to roll up your sleeves and get to work, you can spruce up your living space without spending big. Here are ten home improvement ideas you can do on your own.

Paint your walls and cabinets

Whether you want to brighten a room with a new coat of paint or give your kitchen cabinets a modern makeover, painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to freshen up your home’s interior. Paint is relatively cheap and it’s a project that virtually anyone can do on their own. Despite being inexpensive and easy, a fresh coat of paint can make a huge impact.

Install a backsplash

Instantly enhance the look of your kitchen or bathroom by installing a stylish backsplash. Choose from a wide variety of materials, from ceramic to peel-and-stick or reclaimed wood, and easily create a custom look that suits your taste and budget. There’s a wide variety of styles that you can choose from to suit the room to your unique taste. You can look up simple-to-follow tutorials online for step-by-step instructions on measuring, cutting and installing your tiles. You can even search for helpful videos that will give you an example and show you how it’s done.

Create a statement door

Revamping your front door can have a huge impact on your home's curb appeal. Whether it’s adding a bold coat of paint, installing new hardware, or even adding decorative accents like a wreath or house numbers, your front door is the perfect spot for a statement makeover. This small project can make your entire entrance feel more inviting.

Upgrade your cabinet hardware

Give your kitchen or bathroom a quick facelift by swapping out outdated cabinet hardware for new knobs, handles or pulls. Choose hardware that complements your existing decor style and consider mixing and matching different designs for added visual interest. This is another simple project that won’t take too much time or effort, but it makes a big difference in the appearance of your cabinets.

Installing floating shelves

Floating shelves are super-practical for storage and can also serve as decorative elements that can showcase your favorite books, photos or knick-knacks. Customize the size and design of the shelves to fit your space and style preferences. Floating shelves are becoming increasingly popular, so you won’t have any trouble finding articles and videos to help walk you through the steps of the project!

Add wainscoting or a beadboard to your walls

Decorative wall treatments can add texture, depth and character to any room. Whether you prefer classic raised-panel wainscoting or simple beadboard, there are DIY-friendly kits available to make installation a breeze. Dedicate a weekend to the project, work carefully, and you can get professional results!

Upgrade your light fixtures

Light fixtures can set the tone of a room. Swap out an outdated light fixture in a central location of your home, such as the kitchen, entranceway, or living room, for an updated fixture to instantly give the entire room a fresh, upgraded look. A modern chandelier or sleek pendant lights can transform a dull room into a vibrant space.

Revamp outdoor spaces

Extend your living space outdoors by sprucing up your patio, deck, or garden area. DIY projects such as building a raised garden bed, installing outdoor lighting, or creating a fire pit can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of these outdoor spaces. Upgrading an outdoor space, especially if it’s not being used now, can make a world of difference to your home – especially in the nice weather!

Install a shiplap accent wall

If you love the look of old shiplap walls but live in a modern-style home, this tip is for you. You can have your wall for $50 or less by trimming plywood into planks and nailing the boards to your wall. Paint or stain the panels in your chosen color and you’ve got your shiplap wall! Once again, you can find dozens of helpful tutorials online to keep you on track.

Add a statement rug

A statement rug can completely transform the look and feel of a room. Whether it's a bold pattern, a pop of color, or a luxurious texture, a rug can tie together your decor and create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. This simple and affordable upgrade can make a huge difference, and it's easy to swap out if you want to refresh the look again down the line.

Even if you don’t have the funds to invest in your home, that doesn’t mean that you can’t make upgrades to your home. These ten projects are ones that you can do yourself with the right tools, a little patience, and maybe a YouTube video or two. Some will only take an afternoon, some may take a weekend, but these projects make a big impact compared to how much they cost. Investing in your home goes a long way – even if it’s investing your own time and effort!