Quick Handyman Projects

This Chapter of the Comprehensive Guide to Home Renovations Large and Small takes up where the last Chapter left off; outlining a diverse selection of projects. With complete start-to-finish directions on a variety of home improvement repair projects.

Renovation and home improvement ideas outlined are suitable for weekend project scheduling. DIY home improvement plans, some of which can be completed in just a few hours; others at a leisurely pace over the course of the weekend.

You’ll discover various do it yourself home improvement tips and ideas. Such as how to refurbish kitchen cabinet panels, interior and exterior door replacement, garbage disposal installation, and answers to questions like, “How much insulation do I need?” Plus handy tips for increased project success to help yield the type professional results desired.

And once again – home improvement tool descriptions and use, home improvement techniques, terms associated with renovation and house remodel projects, and more can be found in the Glossary of Terms; located at the front of the book.

DIY project ideas outlined in this chapter include:

• Old cabinet makeover – with complete instructions on how to prepare and refinish old kitchen cabinet wood surfaces. A cost-effective option to cabinet replacement. One providing the instant facelift required for cosmetic appeal; to make cabinetry look like new and freshen up kitchen décor.
• Exterior and interior door installation – including a rundown on interior and exterior door differences. Directions on how to install pre hung door and door frame components; how to accurately measure the door rough opening, add a door header, and how to properly shim and nail a door frame jamb securely in place. Also – steps to remove a door already in place, and special instructions on how to install a new door in an older home; one with a balloon frame.
• Home insulation – an important aspect of home improvement repair often overlooked. This section includes a complete rundown on the different kinds of insulation choices available, and pros and cons of each. Also, what option might work best for the type of insulation project at hand. The importance of R value, general insulation considerations, and directions for specific insulation projects are included: duct insulation, wall insulation, and pipe insulation. Plus, how to install a vapor barrier, and the proper way to insulate a whirlpool bath.
• Garbage disposal installation – a brief explanation on the early beginnings of a controversial invention; the garbage disposal. Why some localities will not allow them, and the importance of checking local code requirements prior to installing one. Also, the different types of disposals available, with specific directions for under sink garbage disposal installation.
• Sink installation – complete with important “before you begin” steps and reminders and directions for sink installation. Whether for kitchen or bathroom; including self rimmed, drop in sink, recessed and semi recessed sink replacement. Plus instructions for first time counter top sink positioning and installation.
• Installing a wall switch – explanation of, uses, and purposes of the various types of wall switch plate options for your home improvement repair project. Followed by installation instructions for the three more common types of wall switch plates. The single pole switch, 3 way wall switch plate, and directions for wiring a four way switch. With special considerations and important reminders when working with the home’s electrical system.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Home Renovations