Just because you share a wall doesn’t mean you have to share a style. Make the most of townhouse living with these DIY remodeling projects that won’t put you in the hole, presented to you below by the MCT Real Estate Group.
But first…
Before beginning any weekend warrior project, keep in mind that some things are best left to the pros. For instance, electrical and plumbing projects. According to the Spruce, the average cost to install electrical outlets, fixtures, or switches is between $141 and $419. Small electrical projects can take anywhere from a few minutes to four hours or more and require an in-depth knowledge of your home’s wiring system. Keep in mind that even a small electrical jolt is potentially lethal, so unless you have an electrician’s license, don’t try and save money here.
Many experts warn against putting on your own roof because you may injure yourself, insurance may not cover DIY repairs, and the costs can be astronomical. Instead, search for local roofing services online and read some reviews before getting a few quotes to find a qualified contractor to take care of your repairs.
Likewise, your home’s plumbing system is more intricate (and dangerous) than you might imagine. Even something as deceptively simple as draining your hot water heater can cause serious burns and extensive property damage if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Lastly, make sure you pay close attention to your expenses during this time. If you haven’t done so already, purchase bookkeeping software that can help you track every penny you spend. When you’re doing renovations on a budget, this type of software can be a lifesaver.
And now for the Townhouse fun
As This Old House notes, there are many simple and inexpensive projects that will set your space apart from the rest, and the Joneses will have to try to keep up with you. This list will walk you through some of these suggestions in more detail.
Crown molding
There’s something inviting about walking into a room lined with decorative molding. And, contrary to popular belief, it’s neither a difficult project nor does it require an arsenal of special tools. With a hand saw and nail gun, you can install crown molding in a 10’ x 10’ room in just a few hours of your time, and the supplies are inexpensive, too.
Stair runner
If you want to add a pop of color and depth, consider installing a carpet runner on the stairs. With very little skill and a few basic tools, including a utility knife and floor kicker, you can upgrade your vertical hallways in a single afternoon.
Tint the tile
Replacing tile floors is expensive, not to mention messy. Thankfully, durable floor paint is available. Bob Vila explains that almost all ceramic tiles can be painted, and, if applied correctly, the upgrade will look great for years to come. Vila suggests sticking with oil-based paints, which are less prone to chipping. Your design options are limited only by your imagination, and you can finish this project for a few hundred dollars over a long weekend.
Coat the cabinets
Chances are that your townhouse isn’t equipped with a large professional-grade kitchen. If replacement is out of your budget, you can paint the cabinets and countertops and swap out the hardware to completely transform even the grimmest galley. Amazingly, you can make the entire room feel many square feet larger by simply changing the color.
Clear the air
While there are many benefits to living in an attached home, there are also a few drawbacks. Poor ventilation is one of them. Since your home is only open on two sides, the air quality may be lacking. Get the air moving by periodically opening both the top and bottom sashes of double-hung windows and making use of room-sized air purifiers. Also, replace your air-conditioning system’s filter regularly.
Open up floor space
A small living room doesn’t mean you have to suffer from a lack of storage space. You’ll have to get creative depending on the configuration of your home, but floating and hanging wall shelves will draw the eye away from the floor and create the illusion of openness. You can buy kits online, at the hardware store, or get creative with your design. HGTV recommends putting storage shelves in the nooks and crannies of your home to maximize space.
While there are limits on what you can do to change the exterior of your attached housing, you can make the interior your own little piece of heaven by getting creative with renovation projects. But remember, when in doubt, let a professional check it out. Otherwise, you may pay dearly for your mistakes.