Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
To me, long weekends mean mini-vacations, time on your boat (that’s me), or at a cottage. However, cottages need maintenance, just like homes, and there are always projects to be done.
Generally, I tell homeowners to leave most home improvement projects to professionals. However, with the knowledge, skills and essential tools, there are some weekend projects every homeowner can do. If you enjoy staying active, like I do, try one of these do-it-yourself projects this weekend.
PAINT YOUR FRONT DOOR
My daughter Sherry loves painting exterior doors to give them a new look and some fun bold colours. Painting is a great weekend project because it doesn’t require a lot of technical skill, but you still need to be prepared and have the right equipment, such as paint, clean rags, a sprayer, brushes, and rollers. Once the door is lightly sanded, dents or holes are fixed, wipe down with a clean cloth, and you are ready to paint.
Also, this may be a great time to upgrade your exterior doors with a smart lock for added convenience and security.
REPAIR YOUR
FENCE POSTS AND GATES
Wooden fences often need repair after a few harsh winters. Fixing a fence post can be a DIY project, and I like using an expanding foam kit (instead of concrete), especially for quick repairs or installing a fence post. It’s easy to use, sets in three minutes and reaches full set strength in two hours.
I prefer 6-inch-by-6-inch posts instead of 4-inch by-4-inch as the larger posts provide more strength and stability. If you’ve noticed your gate has dropped or the hinges are bent, twisted or rusted, you should replace them. Whether you use strap or butt hinges, always use three sets for a secure fit. Also, use galvanized or stainless-steel screws and nails, as they are rust and corrosion-resistant.
Maintaining your fence with a new coat of paint or stain is another great weekend project. Paint or stain protects to help preserve the wood and should be done every two or three years. A cedar or redwood fence will fade if left untreated, but applying a protective oil or tinted stain every few years will help maintain the original look.
REPLACE OLD CAULKING
Exterior caulking protects your cottage against water and moisture intrusion and prevents mould and rot. It also helps lower energy usage by stopping drafts and heat loss. Check the caulking around windows and doors — if it’s dry and cracked, it should be replaced.
Only use exterior rubberized silicone caulking — it’s flexible and made to withstand extreme temperatures. However, most of the wear and tear will occur on the cottage’s south or sunnier side.
If you see significant gaps or cracks, fix these right away. Caulking is a relatively easy task, and with a bit of practice and patience, it can be a good weekend DIY project, but if you feel you are not up for the challenge, call in a pro.
LIGHTEN UP THE OUTSIDE
Adding solar lights to the surrounding landscape and pathways of your cottage is a quick and easy weekend project without worrying about electrical hookups. The fixtures use the energy from the sun during the day to light up spaces at night.
Another great choice is to consider adding plug-in smart lights around the exterior of your cottage or outside buildings. LED spotlights or strip lighting plugged into a GFCI outlet and managed through an app on your phone allows you to schedule turn-on and turnoff periods as well as colour changes.
FIX CRACKS IN YOUR DRIVEWAY OR WALKWAYS
Have you noticed a few cracks in your driveway or walkways? These kinds of weekend projects are made easy with a concrete patch kit. The kit comes complete with the concrete mix and liquid binder in one, and once activated and mixed can easily be poured into the clean hole or crack. Level with a spatula, and it will be set in one hour.
BUILD A FIRE PIT
Nothing says summer cottage like an outdoor fire pit. They are great for gathering friends and family and are relatively easy to construct. The most important thing is to find a safe location, with a clearing of at least 6-to-7 feet surrounding the fire pit and at least 15 feet away from your cottage and low-hanging tree limbs.
Also, check with your local authority to make sure it is legal to have one. Keep furniture and chairs a safe distance from the firepit as you don’t want anyone falling or tripping into the fire.
Long weekends are for good times and relaxation, but for those of you who love to have a project, try one of these.
Stay safe, and Happy Canada Day!
Residents of the GTA can apply for season 2 of Holmes Family Rescue atmakeitright.ca
Post a Comment