Confused.com’s Top 5 DIY & Decorating Tips

• Guides
• Published: 29 Apr 2009 in Household and Home Insurance

Breathe new life into neglected living spaces with some simple DIY tips and tricks

There’s nothing like a change in season to put a spring in your step. And a bit of motivation goes a long way when it comes to tackling DIY – especially decorating.

But it will be worth it. A lick of paint here and there will add value to your home and create a more comfortable living space.

Follow Confused.com’s top 5 decorating tips and your humble home could emerge a palace!

1. Tackle the big jobs 

The best time to address serious outdoor DIY problems is when the sun is shining. The spring and summer months offer better light for big jobs and you’re more likely to feel motivated, too.

Work out what you’d like to have done and ask a few builders to quote you for the work that needs doing. Don’t be afraid to play them off against one another and ask for a better deal – they want the work and you might save yourself some money. Just be sure your home insurance is up to scratch and check whether you’re covered for structural work before you start.

2. Knock it down 

Open-plan rooms are more popular than ever. Redesign your own floor plan by knocking through walls to create a cool and airy space. Of course, please make sure that wall you’re about to demolish is not load bearing. It’s therefore probably best to employ professionals for a job like this. Make sure you’re covered for all the work by reading Got the Builders In? Make Sure You Don’t Invalidate Your Home Insurance.

Open plan kitchen/diners are really popular with families, while combined lounge and dining areas work well for sociable couples. It’s worth bearing this in mind if you’re planning to sell up in the near future – what sort of buyer would you be hoping to attract?

3. Modernise floors 

If you have a wooden floor – show it off!

Many houses, particularly period properties, have beautiful, original floorboards hidden beneath old carpet. If you’re lucky enough to be such a homeowner, expose the floorboards, then sand and polish them for an instant modernisation – you’ll be amazed at the difference.

4. Freshen up the bathroom 

A new bathroom makes a huge difference to the value of a home. If you can afford it, update your old suite and refresh walls with new paint and tiles. If you’re retiling yourself, cover the bath and sink with thick blankets in case a tile falls and damages your suite. And if you’re really strapped for cash, you can always refresh grubby tiles by painting and re-grouting in between them.

5. Add the finishing touches  

Interior décor makes a big difference to any design so once you’ve made your changes, declutter rooms, add colourful accessories and bring the outdoors in by displaying vases of flowers in key rooms.

Maximise the amount of natural light in the house by using mirrors. They’ll reflect the light and create an illusion of space. For more tips, read how to Transform Your Home With Mirrors.

Replacing heavy curtains with sheer, lightweight fabrics will also lighten your surroundings – and your mood!

And once any new work has been done, especially if you’ve tackled some big renovations, remember to adjust your home insurance accordingly.