Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Home Improvement Advice

By Maison Saunders


For those considering home renovations and improvements, there are so many possibilities to consider. A proper home improvement project can enhance the value of a person's home considerably. When engaging in home improvement, there are so many facets to consider. Use this article for tips on doing home improvements the right way.

There are a few electrical tasks that a non-expert can do around the home. One is replacing a light switch. After you turn off the electricity and remove the cover plate, detach the wires on the old switch and replace them in the same order on the new switch.

Homeowners should never hire unlicensed contractors to work on their home improvement jobs. Every state requires some form of certification for general contractors and sub-contractors. While these requirements do not guarantee contractor competence, they are legally required. Most importantly, a contractor without a proper license is likely not carrying proper professional insurance, making them especially risky to work with.

For an easy way to update your home, consider covering dated popcorn ceilings with plaster. All you need is a bucket of joint compound, a wide putty knife for spreading the mud, and plenty of patience. You can create a smooth surface over the popcorn or get creative with the way you apply the mud, and you can paint over the plaster for a modern look.

In order to save as much money as you possibly can on a home improvement job, you should compare the prices for home improvement materials at multiple stores before making a purchase. Some stores can charge a substantial amount more than other shops and this could really cost you in the end.

While new home builders are now required to install only low-flow toilets, older homes rarely have efficient plumbing; an older toilet can use more than three gallons of water per flush; a new low-flow commode will use less than half of that amount, making it a wise investment that can save money on your water costs.

If you are in need of space in your bathroom, you know that the two things taking it up are usually the bathtub and the sink. Opt to install a pedestal sink in a small bathroom instead of one with cabinets on the bottom. It not only gives your bathroom an expensive appearance, but also frees up much needed space.

If you are going to pay someone to do home improvements for you, then make it a point to be available during the work and check up on progress regularly. You want to make sure that things are going as you expected and that the work is being done properly. Inform yourself and make sure all the appropriate permits and inspections are completed.

When it comes to home improvement, leave the big jobs to the professionals. You may end up getting way over your head with expenses, fines, and patchwork if you try to do more than you are actually capable of. Professionals will know the ins and outs regarding permits and regulations. They also will be bound to a contract so it will be them that lose out if the project takes longer than expected or ends up costing more.




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