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DIY Home Improvement Projects for New Homeowners in Norwalk, CT

Welcome to your new home in Norwalk! To make your living space feel like your own, you must add a personal touch. Doing so will also increase the home’s value if you sell. Thus, keep reading to discover popular home features in Norwalk! 

Whether you want to personalize your home or enhance its value, let’s explore everything you need about DIY projects for a new home — from essential tools and materials to a breakdown of simple, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Essential Tools and Materials for DIY Home Projects

In addition to the cost-saving benefits, this is an opportunity to learn new skills. However, you will need the right tools to get started.

  • Hammer: versatile and can be used for driving nails and removing fixtures
  • Screwdriver set: include both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers in various sizes
  • Tape measure: buy one with a locating mechanism
  • Utility knife: opt for a retractable blade design
  • Adjustable wrench: useful for tightening nuts and bolts of different sizes
  • Power drill: choose between corded or cordless depending on your preferences and project requirements
  • Level: essential for precision when hanging shelves or installing cabinets
  • Pliers: quality pliers with ergonomic handles are essential for gripping, bending, and cutting various materials
  • Saw: useful for cutting wood, plastic, or metal for projects of any size

Simple DIY Projects to Get Started

Painting Walls

Painting walls is one of the easiest and most effective DIY projects. It’s a great way to give any room a new look without spending much money. Start by preparing the room—move furniture, cover the floors, and tape off areas you don’t want to paint. 

Then, choose a high-quality paint in your preferred color and test a small patch to ensure you like the shade. If you’re satisfied with the result, get:

  • Paintbrushes: For cutting in around edges and corners.
  • Paint rollers: For covering large wall areas quickly.
  • Drop clothes: To protect floors and furniture.
  • Painter’s tape: To mask off areas you don’t want to paint.
  • Ladder: For reaching higher areas.
  • Paint tray: To hold and distribute paint for the roller.
  • Putty knife: For filling any holes or imperfections before painting.

Installing Shelves

To install shelves, start by measuring the wall space where you want to install them. Mark the spots on the wall for brackets, making sure they are level. 

Then, drill holes for the brackets, insert wall anchors if necessary, and secure the brackets with screws. Finally, place the shelves on the brackets and adjust as needed.

Tools to use:

  • Tape measure: This is for accurate measurements of shelf placement.
  • Level: To ensure shelves are installed straight.
  • Drill: For making holes in the wall for screws and anchors.
  • Screwdriver: To secure screws into brackets.
  • Wall anchors: To support screws in drywall if needed.
  • Pencil: This is for marking drilling spots on the wall.

Updating Fixtures

Bathrooms and kitchens are places where there is always room for updating fixtures. However, whatever you choose, do not forget to turn off the water supply if you are working on plumbing fixtures.

Then, remove the old fixtures carefully and install the new ones. Finally, test to ensure there are no leaks and everything is functional correctly.

Here, you will use the following tools:

  • Screwdriver: To remove old fixtures and install new ones.
  • Wrench: For tightening nuts and bolts.
  • Plumber’s tape: To ensure a leak-proof seal on plumbing fixtures.
  • Drill: If new holes are required for mounting.

Intermediate DIY Projects

Building a Garden Bed

If you are a fan of gardening or simply want to beautify your outdoor space, make room for your new plants. For that you will need:

  • Shovel
  • Crayfish
  • Garden trowel
  • Hammer
  • Measuring tape

You should start by planning the size and location of your garden bed, then prepare the site by removing grass and weeds. Next, you’ll need to construct the frame using wood or another material and fill the bed with soil and compost.

Finally, you can plant your chosen vegetables, flowers, or herbs. Some of the plants suited to the Norwalk climate are black-eyed Susan, daylilies, hostas, coneflower, Japanese pieris, red maple, eastern redbud, and petunias.

Installing a Backsplash

Select a backsplash material you like to add a stylish and functional touch to your kitchen. Before starting the work, prepare the wall by cleaning and leveling it. 

Then, apply adhesive, lay the tiles, and allow them to dry. Once enough time has passed, grout between the tiles and wipe off any excess. For this project, you will need a minimum set of tools to use:

  • Tile cutter: This is for cutting tiles to fit.
  • Notched trowel: This is used to spread adhesive evenly on the wall.
  • Grout float: This is used to apply grout between tiles.
  • Level: To ensure tiles are straight and even.

Refinishing Hardwood Floors

If you want to improve the appearance of hardwood floors and extend their lifespan, make sure you have:

  • Sander: For sanding the old finish off the floors.
  • Vacuum: To remove dust and debris after sanding.
  • Stain applicator: This is used to apply the wood stain.
  • Sealant: To protect the wood and give it a finished look.
  • Brushes/rollers: These are used to apply stain and sealant.

When you have everything, sand the floors to remove the old finish. Then, apply the wood stain in even strokes and let it dry. Finish with a protective sealant to enhance durability and shine.

Advanced DIY Projects

Building a Deck

Building a deck is a great idea if you’re considering expanding your outdoor living space. To customize it to fit your needs, obtain the necessary permits and check local regulations.

If you need assistance, it may be helpful to consult with a local contractor. Only after that can you construct the deck frame, install posts, and lay the decking boards. Be sure to check for the level and security of everything.

Tools to use:

  • Circular saw: For cutting lumber to size.
  • Power drill: For driving screws and installing hardware.
  • Tape measure: To ensure accurate dimensions.
  • Level: To make sure the deck is even.
  • Post Hole Digger: For digging holes for deck supports.

Popular Home Features in Norwalk, CT

Make informed DIY choices by understanding the popular features of Norwalk homes.

 

  • Office: Found in 59.1% of homes
  • Basement: Found in 55.3% of homes
  • Pool: Found in 55.1% of homes
  • New construction: Found in 54.6% of homes
  • Laundry area: Found in 45.6% of homes
  • Washer: Found in 41.6% of homes
  • Deck: Found in 39.1% of homes
  • Central air conditioning: Found in 37.2% of homes
  • Family room: Found in 32.9% of homes
  • Beach access: Found in 29.2% of homes

Safety Tips for DIY Projects

When starting DIY projects, your safety should always come first. Wear protective gear like gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection to prevent injuries from tools, dust, and debris. Additionally, always work within your skill level. 

If a task feels too complex or risky, seek professional help or begin with simpler projects to improve your skills.

So, What’s Your First Step?

For your first Norwalk home improvement, consider starting with something simple like painting or shelving. If you haven’t moved into your new home yet, contact Smooth Move & Delivery today for all the information you need to finalize your plans. Once settled, dive into your projects and transform your new house into a home.




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