DIY Tips That Most People Can Actually Do

Summary

This video offers 10 practical tips for renovating an old house, focusing on solutions that are both cost-effective and simple. From leveling floors and improving window insulation to refurbishing kitchens and updating electrical wiring, the guide emphasizes smart, DIY-friendly approaches to make older homes more comfortable and energy-efficient. Key advice includes retrofitting double glazing, adding insulation, and even painting fences for aesthetic improvements. With personal anecdotes and expert suggestions, viewers will feel inspired and confident to take on home renovation projects while avoiding common pitfalls.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tip 1: Level your old house before starting any renovations. It's essential to ensure that the floor is even, which helps with fitting doors, kitchen cabinets, and skirting boards.
• 😀 Tip 2: Consider sealing and retrofitting double glazing for timber windows. This can improve energy efficiency and warmth without the need for replacing windows.
• 😀 Tip 3: Velvet curtains with thermal backing can keep your home warmer by blocking cold air. Consider hanging them high and wide for maximum effect.
• 😀 Tip 4: If you're adding a door where a window is, don't widen the existing window. Instead, use the existing lintel to save on time and costs.
• 😀 Tip 5: Add insulation beneath the house and in the ceiling to prevent heat loss. This can significantly improve the warmth and energy efficiency of your home.
• 😀 Tip 6: If you have an old kitchen, consider refurbishing it rather than replacing it entirely. You can save money by respraying the cabinet fronts and replacing handles and the bench top.
• 😀 Tip 7: Repainting an old roof can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing it. Ensure to check the fixings and consider replacing old nails with screws if necessary.
• 😀 Tip 8: Painting your fence a darker color can improve the appearance of your garden. Darker shades like navy blue or dark green can make the fence blend in with the plants.
• 😀 Tip 9: Always check the wiring for safety, especially in old houses. Replace old switchboards and wires to prevent fire hazards and ensure electrical safety.
• 😀 Tip 10: Consider hiring a designer or architect for major renovations. Their expertise can save you money and prevent costly mistakes, improving the final result.

Q & A

Why is leveling your old house an important first step in renovations?

Leveling your old house is crucial because many old homes, especially timber houses, have uneven floors. If you don't address this issue before starting renovations, like installing new doors or a kitchen, you'll face difficulties ensuring that everything aligns properly. A level floor makes it easier to install doors, skirting, cabinets, and ensures that everything fits correctly.

Is it always necessary to replace old timber windows when renovating?

Not necessarily. Old timber windows, when properly maintained, can actually be better than modern double-glazed aluminium windows, particularly if the aluminium isn't thermally broken. Retrofitting double glazing into existing timber windows can provide significant thermal benefits, which could be a more cost-effective solution than replacing them altogether.

How can thermal curtains improve energy efficiency in an old house?

Thermal curtains, especially those with a velvet material and thermal backing, help to insulate your home by preventing cold air from entering and keeping warm air inside. This simple addition can significantly reduce heat loss through windows, making the home more energy-efficient and warmer, especially in colder seasons.

What is one affordable way to help prevent rising damp in an old house?

One cost-effective solution is laying black polythene (plastic sheeting) under the floor. This helps to reduce the amount of moisture rising from the ground, preventing dampness from affecting your floorboards. It’s an easy way to maintain warmth and protect your floors from moisture damage.

Why should you check the level of your house before starting renovations?

Checking the level ensures that any new renovations, such as a kitchen or flooring, will align properly with the existing structure. If you don't address uneven floors first, it may cause complications down the line with fitting doors, cabinets, or even installing skirting boards.

What are the benefits of refurbishing an old kitchen instead of replacing it?

If the kitchen layout is still functional and the cabinets are in good condition, refurbishing can be a much more affordable option than a full replacement. You can update the kitchen by respraying cabinet fronts, replacing handles, and swapping out the countertop, giving the kitchen a new look without the high cost of a full remodel.

What are the advantages of retrofitting double glazing into old timber windows?

Retrofitting double glazing into old timber windows increases the thermal efficiency of the windows, keeping the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This is a more cost-effective option than replacing windows altogether while preserving the character of the original timber frames.

Why is it recommended to keep the door width the same as an existing window when converting it into a door?

Maintaining the same width as the original window when converting it into a door can save you significant time, money, and effort. Making the door wider would require additional structural changes, including resupporting the lintel, which can be both complex and costly.

What are the benefits of repainting an old roof rather than replacing it?

Repainting an old roof, especially an iron one, is a cost-effective way to restore its appearance and functionality. Adding underlay or fixing any loose nails can also extend the lifespan of the roof, avoiding the need for a full roof replacement, which can be significantly more expensive.

How important is it to check the wiring in an old house during renovations?

Checking the wiring in an old house is crucial for safety. Over time, old wiring can deteriorate, leading to potential hazards like electrical fires. If you have outdated wiring, it’s important to update it and possibly install an RCD (Residual Current Device) for added protection to prevent overloads and electrical failures.