Do you ever get the itch to do some work on your house? Maybe you’ve been putting off a project because you never have enough time for it.
Well, it turns out there are plenty of home improvement projects that you can do in an hour or less. So if you want something you can finish fast, here are 13 things you could complete within the next hour:
- Paint your front door
Your front door is the focal point of your house. If it’s faded, scratched, or damaged in any way, now might be a good time to give it a new coat of paint.
This is also a great way to make a statement. If your house is a neutral color, painting your front door a contrasting color like red, for example, can really make it stand out. Just make sure it’s a complementary color.
Before you start painting, however, you may need to strip or sand the door’s surface. And tape off the door’s edges and any built-in windows to make sure you don’t paint the wrong areas.
- Paint an accent wall
If you’d rather paint inside, consider painting an accent wall. An accent wall is a different color from the rest of the walls in a room to stand out.
Painting a whole room is a big job. So paint an accent wall instead. Make the job go even faster by getting one-coat paint that also acts as a primer.
- Install peel-and-stick wallpaper
Want a project that’s even easier than painting a wall? Try installing peel-and-stick wallpaper. It’s an inexpensive and easy way to give a wall a fresh look. You can even get a fun wallpaper design to make the room come alive.
- Install a bidet
Ever heard of a bidet? It’s a toilet device that sprays water to help clean you after using the bathroom. Popular nearly everywhere but North America, bidets are an inexpensive way to upgrade your toilet and help the environment at the same time.
Bidets are also more sanitary for your skin and they reduce the amount of toilet paper you use by 75% or more! Chose between three different types of bidets to take your bathroom to the next level.
- Upgrade your shower head
You shower every day. Why not upgrade your shower head to one that has different spray settings for a more custom and enjoyable shower experience?
You can also install a low-flow nozzle to help you save water. This helps the environment and lowers your utility bill.
- Switch out a faucet
Just as you can switch out a shower head, you can switch out a faucet. Upgrade the fixture to one made of chrome, brass, or stainless steel. Install the faucet with an aerator to help save on water as well.
- Replace light bulbs with LED bulbs
Did you know that LED bulbs use 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs? Sure, LED bulbs might cost twice as much as regular ones, but they’re cheaper in the long run and they help the environment.
- Install a ceiling fan
If you’re not afraid of heights, consider installing a new ceiling fan. As long as it replaces an existing fixture, installing a ceiling fan is not too difficult. Just remember to turn off the appropriate electrical circuit on your circuit breaker before you start. Otherwise, you might get electrocuted!
- Install a smart thermostat
These days, there are all sorts of automated appliances you can have in your house, including smart thermostats. Smart thermostats let you program your house’s temperature so that it varies throughout the day. They also let you adjust the temperature from your phone.
Installing a smart thermostat is pretty simple. All you need is a screwdriver and the manufacturer’s instructions. And once you get it set up, you’ll start saving energy by ensuring the AC and heater aren’t used when it’s unnecessary.
- Install a keyless door lock
Nobody likes fumbling around for their keys when they’re trying to get into their house. So why not eliminate the need for a house key altogether by installing a keyless door lock?
This is another form of smart technology that allows you to open your door with a keypad, card, or even your phone. Some models even come with a security camera built into them so you can verify the identity of people at the door when you’re inside.
Again, installing a keyless door lock usually requires only a screwdriver and the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Plant flowers
If you’d rather do something that doesn’t involve modern technology, you can always plant some flowers. Plant them in pots, planters, beds, or just in the dirt in your yard.
A nice array of flowers can improve your home’s curb appeal. And the process of planting them can be very therapeutic. It’s a good way to destress after a busy day.
- Install floating shelves
Another easy project is installing floating shelves. They help fill an otherwise plain wall to give it more character and style. Plus, it gives you more space to put books, trinkets, or decorations.
You’ll probably need some screws, a screwdriver, and a stud finder to know where best to position the floating shelf.
- Upgrade cabinet hardware
Lastly, you can also upgrade your cabinet hardware. This is a great way to give your cabinets a new look without breaking the bank. The price for cabinet handles varies, but you can easily replace all the ones in your house for under $200.
Endnote
Hopefully, this list inspired you to take up a new home improvement project. If you run out of ideas, there are plenty more out there. Just start with one and let the momentum help you transform your house one project at a time!
