As we all spend more time indoors, you may have noticed some things around your house that have undergone some wear and tear. Whether you’re starting to feel the draft coming in from your windows or hearing the drip of a leaky faucet, now’s the perfect time to tackle some home care projects that can be done while social distancing.
We’re sharing five projects you can do, all with items you either have at home or that can be easily delivered, so you can stay safe, minimize contact, and be productive.
Caulk Your Windows
If it’s been a while since you’ve caulked your windows, it’s time to inspect them. Poorly caulked windows not only look unprofessional, but they can lead to drafty windows and higher electric bills.
To start, it’s important to ensure you’re using the right type of caulk for the space. Depending on whether you’re using the caulk indoors or outdoors, in high heat, or with high moisture levels, you made need a different caulk. If you need help choosing the right caulk for your project, we have some factors you should consider.
Once you’ve determined the right caulk to use for your project, be sure you use the proper tools and technique for a clean finish.
Fix a Leaky Faucet
Do you have a faucet that’s been leaking for longer than you can remember? While you’re cooped up inside it’s the perfect time to tackle a project that you’ve been putting off.
In just a few steps, you can fix your faucet and finally silence that leak. All you need to do is turn off the water, remove the handles, replace the cartridge, and reattach the faucet.
Not sure how to remove the handles or replace your cartridge? This how-to from The Spruce will show you all the steps. Plus, while most of the tools to fix a leaky faucet can be found in your home, any missing tools or pieces can be ordered online from companies such as Amazon, so you don’t have to leave your home to get the job done.
Check Out Your Exterior
Next time you need some fresh air, take a few laps around your house. While walking, look for any signs of cracks, woodpecker holes, cracked paint, or damage.
If left unattended, exterior damage can compound and before you know it you may need to completely replace your siding. By looking for signs early, you can avoid a costly repair down the road.
If you do see signs of damage, it’s important to contact a team that can help with repairs. Because the work is done outdoors, it’s easy to practice social distancing while the work is being completed, saving you from a full replacement later.
Makeover Your Garage
Has your garage turned into a storage space?
If yours has become so overcrowded you can’t even fit your car in it, you might be able to reutilize this space.
Make a weekend project out of cleaning your garage. You can use this space for anything from a gym to finally having space to park your car again.
Wondering where to get started? We’re sharing tips for where to begin and how to use this space.
Touch-Up Your Molding
If your molding is doing its job, then over time it will begin to get dented, dinged, and cracked. Whether it’s from moving furniture, a teething puppy or just long-term wear and tear, the damage eventually starts to show.
While you’re spending time at home, go through each room and see where dings and cracks are in your molding. With a little filler, sandpaper, and a putty knife, you can repair cracked molding so that, with a touch of paint, it looks good as new.
Most Importantly, Stay Safe
First and foremost, it’s important to stay safe during this time. If you decide to tackle a project that you need supplies for, we recommend ordering them online from a company like Home Depot or Menards and have them delivered right to your door to minimize contact.
Once you have the supplies you need, you can get to work and kick off your first project.