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As we transition from summer to fall, you're probably evaluating whether you've invested enough time in home improvements and if there's anything you could tackle over the weekend.
To help boost your home's curb appeal and give your interiors a fresh new look, Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal, has shared some easy projects that will help you get ahead of the game…
1. Change the color of your fence
A white picket fence may be a dream come true, but even a standard garden fence can change the aesthetic of your home, creating boundaries and offering privacy.
However, fencing is often overlooked when it comes to redecorating, Englezos says, and many homeowners often stick with its original color.
And when it comes to maintenance, highlighting the wood grain and ensuring its longevity, a fresh coat of paint can make all the difference.
“There are two main color options homeowners can choose from: dark tones or light tones,” Englezos notes.
“Darker shades absorb light to create a cozier atmosphere, making the garden space appear smaller and more intimate.
“Meanwhile, lighter shades reflect light, making the garden appear larger by blurring the outer boundaries.”
And to point you in the right direction, green is trending – think forest green or sage green, otherwise charcoal and black fences create a sleek, contemporary vibe.
2. Fix the shed
“Garden sheds are also often neglected places, as they often house valuable gardening tools and equipment, so they need to be maintained to prevent the appearance of moisture or mould,” Englezos emphasises.
Be sure to give the shed a good clean with a stiff wire brush to remove excess debris, cobwebs, mud, mold or anything else that has been attracted to your shed over the years, Englezos advises. “And be sure to fill any holes with wood putty.”
3. Paint the kitchen cabinets
This is a great way to refresh the look of a kitchen on a budget, suggests Englezos.
“Paint works best on wood cabinets, but laminates can also be painted, as long as the laminate is in good condition and not peeling.”
For best results, she says, a paint roller should be used to apply the paint to the surface, as this will help create a smooth, even finish.
Once again, green is very popular and a great choice to enhance the indoor-outdoor flow for a seamless transition from kitchen to garden… and a sense of harmony when connecting indoor and outdoor living areas.
4. Paint the front door
“This is often the first thing people see when they visit your home, so it’s important to keep it looking its best,” Englezos says. “This can easily be achieved with a fresh coat of paint.”
Both wood and composite doors can be painted, but it is recommended to make sure you use the right paint. Also be sure to clean the door surface thoroughly beforehand with a household cleaner and warm soapy water.
“Apply the paint in the direction of the grain with a synthetic brush and let the first coat dry for four hours,” she continues. “Apply the second coat before letting it dry and then reattach the door hardware.”
5. Recycle a piece of furniture
Do you have an old bookshelf or desk that doesn't fit in with the overall look of a room?
“A simple coat of paint can breathe new life into an old piece of furniture and cover any marks or stains to make it look like new.”
Plus, it won't tax your DIY expertise, promotes sustainability, and comes with the satisfaction of completing a beautiful project yourself.
“Simply lightly sand the surface with sandpaper before wiping it clean with a damp cloth,” Englezos advises.
“Apply two coats of paint with a synthetic brush, making sure to paint in the direction of the wood grain.” And that’s it.
