As the days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise, homeowners everywhere start thinking about refreshing their living spaces. Summer provides the perfect opportunity to tackle those home improvement projects that have been on your to-do list. With more daylight hours and favorable weather conditions, even weekend warriors can accomplish impressive transformations that enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of their homes. Here are five DIY house improvements perfectly suited for the coming summer season that will revitalize your space without breaking the bank.
5 DIY House Improvements
Interior Paint
Nothing transforms a space more dramatically than an easy house improvement of fresh paint. And summer’s longer daylight hours and improved ventilation make it the perfect time for interior painting projects. Begin by selecting colors that evoke the season’s refreshing energy. Cool blues and greens create a sense of tranquility and visually lower room temperature. For smaller spaces, light neutrals like soft whites and pale grays make rooms appear larger and airier.
“A DIY painting project really shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before applying paint, properly prepare surfaces by cleaning walls, patching holes, and applying painter’s tape for clean edges. Consider using paint with low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimize harmful fumes, especially important when windows will be open for ventilation.”, says Harris Contracting, a 20-year contractor that does painting in Dallas.
For maximum impact with minimal effort, try painting an accent wall in a bold color rather than tackling an entire room.
Don’t limit your painting projects to walls alone. Refreshing kitchen or bathroom cabinets with paint can completely transform these heavily used spaces without the expense of replacement. Similarly, dated brick fireplaces can be modernized with specialized heat-resistant paint. Even interior doors and trim benefit enormously from fresh paint, removing years of scuffs and handprints while bringing consistency to your home’s color scheme.
Create an Outdoor Oasis
Your backyard or patio can become your favorite “room” during summer months with some thoughtful improvements. Start by power washing your deck or patio surface to remove winter grime and stains. For wooden decks, consider applying a fresh coat of weatherproof stain or sealant to protect against summer storms and intense sunshine. Next, assess your outdoor furniture – could it benefit from new cushions or a coat of rust-resistant paint?
To elevate your outdoor space further, install string lights overhead for ambient evening illumination. Solar-powered options eliminate the need for complicated wiring and reduce energy costs. Place potted plants to create natural privacy screens or define different zones within your outdoor area. Herbs like rosemary, basil, and mint not only look beautiful but provide fresh ingredients for summer cocktails and meals.
For the ultimate outdoor oasis, consider installing a simple DIY House improvement by creating a water feature. The sound of trickling water creates a peaceful atmosphere and helps mask street noise. Pre-made fountain kits require minimal assembly, or you can craft something unique using large ceramic pots, submersible pumps, and decorative stones. The gentle bubbling will attract birds and butterflies, further enhancing your outdoor experience during the warm summer months.
Upgrade Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Summer is the ideal time to tackle DIY house projects that improve your home’s energy efficiency. Start by examining your windows and doors for drafts. Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps that allow cooled air to escape. For older windows that can’t be easily sealed, consider installing window film that blocks UV rays while reducing heat transfer. This simple solution can dramatically lower cooling costs while protecting furniture and flooring from sun damage.
Installing ceiling fans represents another practical summer improvement project. Modern ceiling fans consume minimal electricity while creating cooling air movement that can make a room feel up to four degrees cooler. This allows you to set your air conditioner at a higher temperature, generating significant energy savings. When selecting ceiling fans, look for models with Energy Star ratings and reversible motors that can be used year-round.
For those comfortable with more advanced DIY house improvement projects, consider adding attic insulation. During summer, inadequately insulated attics can reach temperatures exceeding 150 degrees, radiating heat downward into living spaces. By adding a layer of blown-in or batt insulation, you create a thermal barrier that keeps your home cooler while reducing air conditioning costs. Many utilities offer rebates for insulation projects, making this improvement especially cost-effective.
Revitalize Your Kitchen
The kitchen often serves as the heart of summer activities, from preparing fresh seasonal produce to hosting casual gatherings. Fortunately, you can dramatically improve this central space without a full renovation. Start with hardware – replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs with contemporary options instantly updates the entire room. Choose finishes that complement your existing fixtures, such as brushed nickel or matte black, for a cohesive look.
For a more ambitious project, consider replacing your kitchen backsplash. Peel-and-stick tile options have come a long way in recent years, offering realistic ceramic, subway, or even stone appearances without requiring specialized installation skills. These temporary solutions can be removed later without damaging walls, making them perfect for rental properties or homeowners hesitant to commit to permanent changes.
Improving kitchen lighting represents another high-impact summer project. Under-cabinet LED lighting strips are inexpensive and easy to install, illuminating workspaces while creating atmosphere. Replace outdated overhead fixtures with energy-efficient options that provide better task lighting. For a finishing touch, consider installing dimmer switches that allow you to adjust light levels from bright and functional to soft and ambient for evening entertaining.
Enhance Curb Appeal with Landscaping
Summer is naturally the best season for landscaping improvements that boost your home’s curb appeal. Begin by defining garden beds with clear, curved edges cut with a spade or installed edging material. Add a layer of fresh mulch in garden beds to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide a clean, uniform appearance. Choose organic mulch that will gradually break down and enrich your soil.
For immediate impact, install window boxes filled with cascading flowers beneath first-floor windows. These simple additions create vertical interest and bring color closer to eye level. Choose drought-tolerant annuals like petunias, million bells, or sweet potato vine that will thrive throughout the summer heat with minimal maintenance. Self-watering window boxes are particularly practical for busy homeowners.
Finally, consider creating a welcoming entryway with potted plants flanking your front door. Large weather-resistant containers planted with dwarf evergreens or ornamental grasses provide year-round structure, while seasonal flowers can be added for changing color. Complement your landscaping efforts by refreshing your front door with a coat of bold paint and updating house numbers and mailbox for a cohesive, attention-grabbing façade.
With these five DIY house improvement projects, you’ll be well-prepared to enhance your home for the summer season. From creating outdoor living spaces to improving energy efficiency, each project delivers significant results without requiring professional expertise. The warmer months provide perfect conditions for these transformations, allowing you to enjoy the benefits throughout summer and beyond. By investing some time and creativity now, you’ll create a more comfortable, efficient, and beautiful home to enjoy all season long.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
