Winter is a prime time for indoor projects. With more time spent inside, it’s a good moment to learn new skills and improve your living space – and avoid high contractor costs. Here are ten DIY tasks contractors recommend tackling this winter, ranging from simple fixes to more ambitious upgrades.
Essential Skills for Homeowners
Many home repairs are overpriced if you hire a professional. Learning DIY basics can save significant money over time, especially for common issues like plumbing or electrical work. The projects below not only improve your home but also build practical skills.
1. Build Custom Storage
Storage cubes are a beginner-friendly woodworking project that teaches essential skills like measuring, cutting, and assembly. They’re small enough to build in limited indoor space, making them ideal for winter work.
2. Master Baseboard Painting
Painting baseboards is more precise than painting walls. It requires careful brushwork with even pressure and consistent strokes. Developing this skill translates to better trim painting around windows and doors throughout your home.
3. Upgrade to USB Wall Outlets
Eliminate bulky USB adapters by installing USB wall outlets. If you know how to install a standard outlet, this upgrade is nearly identical. For beginners, it’s a practical way to learn outlet replacement safely.
4. Create an Accent Wall
An accent wall adds visual interest to any room. Options include bold colors, murals using painter’s tape, or pre-cut stencils for unique designs. This is a quick way to freshen up a space without major renovation.
5. Replace Dated Hardware
Swapping out old cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, or door handles provides an instant facelift. Upgrading to soft-close hinges in kitchens and bathrooms is another effective, affordable improvement.
6. Tackle Basic Plumbing Repairs
Plumbers can charge exorbitant rates for simple tasks like unclogging toilets or fixing leaks. Learning basic plumbing skills allows you to handle these issues yourself. Starting with toilet replacement or faucet installation builds confidence for larger projects like water heater upgrades.
7. Install Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches offer mood control, energy efficiency, and reduced eye strain. Installation takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick win for any homeowner. Ensure you choose the right dimmer for your bulbs and room type.
8. Build a Functional Pegboard Wall
Pegboard walls combine organization with aesthetics. Mounting a 4-foot by 8-foot board on two-by-two supports, sanding, staining, and adding hardware creates a versatile space for desks, offices, or laundry areas.
9. Learn Tile Installation
Tile work can seem intimidating, but winter is a good time to practice. Waterproof bathrooms by installing wall tile with plastic spacers to maintain consistent seams. Mosaic backsplashes or classic subway tiles are also beginner-friendly projects.
10. Hang Pictures Properly
Don’t leave framed pictures leaning against walls. Take the time this winter to hang them securely, completing the look of your space.
Investing time in these DIY projects not only saves money but also builds valuable skills for future home maintenance. Many of these tasks are surprisingly accessible, even for those with limited experience.
