Top 10 Quick Tips For Improving Your Home
Owning a home of your own has long been the American
dream. But a home improvement project-gone-wrong can quickly turn
it into a nightmare. To help you transform your new home into
everything you’ve dreamed it could be, the American Homeowners
Association has compiled these ten quick tips on home improvement.
Be sure to keep them handy, and refer to them often, to help make
your very own ‘American Dream’ come true!
- There’s Nothing Like Paint to Transform a Room.
There’s
no simpler or less expensive way to dramatically change the look
of your home, than with a fresh coat of paint. For best results,
there is a proper order to painting any room: 1. ceiling, 2. walls,
3. windows, & 4. doors, trim and baseboards. Don’t be
afraid to experiment with color or faux paint treatments. If you
don’t like it, just re-paint!
- Get Creative.
Don’t stop there. For children’s
rooms, the sky’s the limit. Imagine a colorful tent room,
featuring vertical stripes that meet at the top, cabana style.
Note: getting children involved in the decorating process can
really warm them up to their new home.
- Remove Old Wallpaper Without Coming Unglued.
Instead of
using a chemical solution, consider renting a steamer. You’ll
avoid breathing in chemical fumes, and it’s less likely
to damage your walls.
- Try Wainscoting.
Another quick way to transform a room is
to add depth. This is easily accomplished with a wall treatment
that travels two-thirds of the way up the wall. Some good choices
are textured wallpaper, wainscoting rectangles, or vertical bead-board.
- Apply Decorative Moldings.
A quick and easy way to add importance
to any room, is to add decorative crown moldings. They now come
in several materials other than wood, which makes them extremely
affordable.
- Consider Tile.
Tile works wonders in any kitchen or bath,
regardless of size. There are so many tile designs to choose from,
you’re sure to find something that inspires you. A simple
design can create great impact. To avoid a flat, sterile look,
select tiles that vary in color, texture and even size.
- Get the Book.
Don’t rely on trial and error, or attempt
to reinvent the wheel. Pick up a simple “How to” book,
like Lowe’s XYZ, for tips on how to execute any common home
improvement. Even if you know you’re all thumbs, your friends
will soon be asking for pointers!
- Don’t Skimp on Tools.
Armed with the right tools,
you can do anything, as any handy friend or relative will tell
you.
- File For the Necessary Permits.
Before you begin any major
home improvement project, check with the building and zoning authorities
in your area, to determine what permits, if any, you’ll
need.
- Get the Help You Need.
Let AHA help you get it right the
first time, with our:
• network of pre-screened contractors
• expert tips on remodeling
• ideas on how to find the cash to start now!
• AHA Home University courses online
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