Home ImprovementProjects (NAPSA)—Weekendsare a great time for home improvementprojects, but manyobstacles can stand in the way—finding time, not having the right tools and supplies or just not knowing whereto begin. “It’s a common misconception that do-it-yourself projects require a major time commitment,” says Steve Watson, home improvement expert and host of HGTV’s “Don’t Sweat It.” “But many projects can be accomplished in just a weekend if you start off right with good advice and use dependable resources and products.” Following are some of Steve’s favorite home improvement projects to inspire do-it-yourselfers and tips to ensure they come out great: Spiff Up Without Sanding Down Project Idea: With children and pets running around, your hardwood floors could probably use someattention. Steve saysit’s easy to rid yourfloors of unsightly scuff marks and scratches without replacing them. Tip: It’s not always necessary to sand down the damaged part of wood floors to give them a newer look. Fill in cracks and gouges to make your floor look new again without a lot of time, effort or money. Thoroughly clean and clear off dust and debris before repairing. From Basement Blues To Basement Good News Project Idea: Bored with your basement? Need more space to relax, work or play? Update it with a fresh coat of paint. Tip: Beware of deteriorating concrete; it can produce loose sand and pebbles. Repair with acrylic latex block fillers first and use waterproof paint when applying new color. Display Away Project Idea: Create a new mantel to showcase family photos, mementos or artwork. Partially Great Projects For Every Season! Fall Think ahead to nextspring's garden. Spring bulbs should be plantedin thefall to grow tough andstrong. Summerblooms need fo be dug up now before cold weather setsin. Winter Paint your spare bedroom to impress holiday guests. Alternate two bright colors to add personality to thespace. Wall striping adds an elegant lookfor a hotellike getaway. Spring Yearly cleaningcreates a needfor extra storage andshelving. Mount it—hooks and hangers add extra storage space. Shelve it—treestanding shelving units are a hassle-free solution. Summer Get your deck ready for entertaining and fun in the sun. Jazz up any deck with a custom stain in a uniquecolor. Visit www.StartRightStartHere.com for project ideasandtips year-round. assembled mantel kits are avail- able, but it’s more fun to build your own. Tip: Buy samples of available moldings and construct “minimantels” to help visualize the end design and determine nailing and fastening requirements beforehand. Remember, check with your local building department for firesafety guidelines. To help do-it-yourselfers make projects easier, True Value offers expert in-store advice and quality products for one-stop solutions. Visit www.StartRightStartHere.com for complete project guides and shoppinglists.
