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March 20, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

The Easiest Way To Improve A Mirror: Add A Frame

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A remnant of home decoration past, for some reason, many bathrooms have a frameless mirror. This style is not just ugly, but it can make even the best remodeled bathroom look unfinished. With just a few supplies and tools, turn any half-remodel into a full one with time and money to spare.

Visit a local hardware store and pick up these items:

  • Prime case moulding
  • Liquid glue
  • Paint

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First, measure the length and width of the mirror and cut the moulding to size. Lay it out on the floor to gauge what the final arrangement will look like.

This next step isn’t necessary, but can add another element of class to any bathroom. Depending on the style of bathroom, neo-Victorian or country classic, paint the trim to match its overall decor. Shaunna from hometalk settled on black for a timeless appearance.

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Lastly, attach the moulding to the mirror with liquid glue. Directions should be on the packaging and make sure to not use too much. Globs of glue are even less attractive than no framing at all. Use painters tape to keep it secure until the glue dries.

And that’s it! A combination of moulding and adhesive brings any bathroom remodel from ordinary to exceptional in just a few steps.

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Need more ideas for remodeling? Check out Idea Corner weekly for home renovation ideas.

March 18, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

Concrete Countertops: Get The Popular Look On A Budget

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Concrete countertops are all the rage in home renovation. Not only is the style industrial, but easier to clean than the more expensive granite or marble. Despite being seemingly cheaper, concrete countertops can run pretty steep. So instead of getting a slab professionally installed or taking the copious amount of time to create concrete forms, get the same aesthetic by applying concrete over pre-existing countertops.

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Here are the needed supplies:

  • 10-pound bag of Ardex Feather Finish
  • Course-grit sandpaper
  • Drywall knife
  • Putty knife
  • Finish sealer
  • Paint brush

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To start the process, sand down the previous counters with the course-grit sandpaper to create a perfect surface for the concrete to settle on. Following this, mix the Ardex Feather Finish and water until it reaches a semi-thick consistency.

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Once the mixture is prepared, apply multiple thin layers to the countertop’s surface. For 100 percent coverage, 3 or 4 layers will most likely be required. To ensure a durable surface, sand thoroughly between each application.

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When these layers are dry, use the putty knife to clean up any mixture that splattered onto walls and create natural texture in the surface. Depending on the desired look, feel free to sand the surface until trowel marks show through or until a smooth concrete look is achieved.

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Finally, pour the sealer over the concrete making sure it soaks through thoroughly before using a paint brush to remove any residue.

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So for just $15 and a few hours, concrete countertops aren’t only affordable but achievable without any back breaking hard work.

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Get the detailed tutorial from The Little Green Notebook.

In search of quality service for more kitchen remodels? Contact Chicago Handyman today!

March 13, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

The Very Best Wall Improvement: A DIY Wall Niche

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Want to add texture to a wall? Don’t want to use simple wallpaper or paneling? Try embellishing with a wall niche. Display pictures, knick knacks, even the 3rd grade soccer trophy that never got thrown out.

Begin by choosing a wall for the niche, noting that the niche must be installed over one wall stud and between two other wall studs.

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After marking out the area, utilize a hammer to knock out the drywall. Once the drywall is removed, level cut of all the wall studs and then nail 2X4 blocks on either side of where the niche box will be.

Now it’s time to create the box. Measure the dimensions of the wall cavity and length and width of where it will be installed. Secure the pieces together with wood glue, making sure to wipe away any remaining glue. After priming the box, paint it in the chosen color and caulk all the joints.

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Place the box in the wall and then nail it into the wall with a nail gun. Once it is secure, attach trim and rosettes around the border of the niche. Finally cover up any cracks or joints with caulk.

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When completed, this niche adds classic charm to any wall.

 

For more information on this project, check out DIY network.

 

March 11, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

Need To Change Up A Space? Try a $40 Interior Sliding Door!

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Whether it’s a loft, cramped rental or a home that’s in need of a unique look, an interior sliding door can add interest and value to a residence. And for just $40, the price for this life-changing (OK, maybe not that dramatic) project cannot be beat.

These are the required supplies:

  • 2 plumbing flanges
  • 1 (possibly 2) plumbing angle brackets
  • Length of plumbing pipe
  • 3 “hinged loops”
  • 2 full sheets of masonite
  • 1 bundle of 2×2’s
  • 2 small wheels
  • Assorted nails/brads
  • 20 wood screws
  • Nail gun or hammer
  • Screw driver
  • Level

Using the 2X2’s, create a wood frame matching the dimensions of the masonite that will function as the door.  Then nail the masonite to the frame, making sure the surface is firm.

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Following the door construction, add wheels to the bottom of it. The best type of wheels to utilize are ones that only work in one direction.

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Next comes the top of the door function. Begin by screwing hinged loops to the top of the door with wood screws. Slide the pre-cut pipe into these hinged loops. Don’t forget to add any flanges or angled pieces necessary to the pipe.

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After leveling where the door will hang and marking the places for drill holes, attach the plumbing hardware to the wall.

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Test the door and if it slides cleanly, voila! This door will add value to the home and provide a modern touch to any home.

For more instructions, check out Apartment Therapy!

 

March 6, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

The Best Cabinet Space Saver Of All Time

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Pots and pans are the largest, clunkiest and often most essential cookware of any kitchen. They can take up valuable cabinet space and leave renters and homeowners wondering where to store them without leaving them lazily on top of the stove top. Well, fear no more! This pegboard wall organizer from Decorology solves all future pots and pans storage nightmares in a stylish and functional way.

With just these materials, this project can be completed quickly and cheaply for a great look:

  • Pegboard
  • Framing wood
  • Pegboard hooks
  • Tool racks
  • Anchors
  • Screws
  • Paint (in desired color)

Begin by cutting wood boards to the proper framing size. This provides space between the wall and pegboard so later the hooks can be inserted.

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Before attaching the pegboard to any surface, paint it the desired color.how-to-a-kitchen-pegboard-wall-organizer-L-aWLyou

Then mount the framing board to kitchen wall and then attach the pegboard to the frame. Measure where to put the anchor screws and line up the screws in the frame. Finally, tighten the screws into the anchors.

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Finally it is time to design the pots and pans arrangement. For an interesting layout, use a variety of hook sizes and types. This will bring visual interest to any kitchen.

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So for an edgy, sophisticated kitchen, look no further than a pegboard wall organizer for all pots and pans storage.

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For even more kitchen design, call Chicago Handyman for a quote today!