Saturday, May 19, 2012
   
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Do-it-yourself repair that makes for home savings

Home repair does not always have to be pricey and time-consuming. There are several projects that homeowners can undertake on a lazy Sunday that will help keep a home looking good without breaking the bank.

In fact, there are several simple home maintenance projects that can be accomplished with $25 or less and a few hours of spare time, according to home inspectors from HouseMaster.

For example, homeowners can spare their bathroom from water damage without having to find a contractor. Simply re-grouting tiles can protect a washroom and keep moisture from leaking into foundations, according to the source.

Homeowners should mix grout first. Store-bought powder should be combined with the appropriate amount of water and stirred until the mixture reaches a consistency similar to toothpaste. Individuals should let the grout sit for five minutes and then stir again, according to the DIY Network.

Grout should then be applied to surfaces using a diagonal motion. While this job can be done over a number of days, homeowners should be sure to complete an entire wall at a time, the source suggests.

After grout is applied, tiles should be cleaned three times. Homeowners should first remove excess grout before it gets a chance to dry. Individuals should be sure to get grout out of the corners as well, the source explains.

After excess materials have been removed, homeowners should drag a sponge over tiles. After each swipe, the sponge should be completely wrung out. Lastly, tiles should be buffed clean with a cotton cloth, according to the source.

Another inexpensive home project that can be accomplished by do-it-yourself weekend warriors is sealing a deck. Left unchecked, wood decks can become more bane than boon, as rotting wood attracts termites, which can then infest a home, according to HomeMaster.

Deck sealant can be purchased for less than $25, and in a few hours, homeowners can ensure that their outdoor space is protected from the ravages of weather, the source explains.

The deck should first be swept, and homeowners should make sure they clean between cracks, as rotting leaves can damage the board if left unchecked. Boards should then be scrubbed using bleach and water, according to the DIY Network.

Using a pad with a reservoir brush or a foam roller, apply deck stain or sealant in even strokes. If stain will be used, be sure to cover the deck with a sealant after the paint has dried, the source explains.
 

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