These projects not only save money, but they make a home look terrific,can be done easily and they're fun.
Molding
Tips:
- This project can be done before bringing in all the furniture.
- Most builders will offer upgrade packages for additional moldings. But if you do the work, it can save some money.
- There are many styles of molding to choose from. Visit a home center and purchase a variety of samples. Hold them in position and decide which one works best for the room. Some of the more expensive molding is wrapped in plastic--leave it on for easy returns.
- If adding a lot of molding throughout the house, consider purchasing a nail gun and small compressor--it will pay for itself quickly.
Steps:
1. Once the style is chosen, measure all the walls and purchase the necessary amount . Go for longer pieces--fewer joints provide a better look.
2. Pre-prime all the pieces, as it's easier to do it while on the floor than when it is on the wall. Use a miter saw to cut pieces to length.
3. Attach the molding to the wall using just enough to secure the molding flush to the wall. Don't drive the nail all the way in or it will create what is referred to as a rosebud on the wood--a ding in other words. Hammer so the nail head is slightly out of the wood, and then finish with a nail set.
4. Run a bead of caulk along the edges of the molding. This makes the trim look as if it's part of the wall to begin with.
Remote Controls for Fans
While installing a ceiling fan/light, consider adding a remote control device to avoid having to get up to turn the fan on or off or to adjust the speed. Some fans come with this already built in or it can be added for around 40 dollars. If a fan is already installed, these can be added at any time.
