7 Easy Summer Home DIY Projects To Do In A Weekend

Looking to spruce up your space this season? Try one of our top summer DIY projects to improve your home in a single weekend.

Home improvements don't always have to be costly or time-consuming. Within days you can complete small projects, like planting a garden or repainting, to make a huge impact on your home this summer.

Repaint Your Front Door

Over time the elements of nature can cause your front door to chip or crack. Maybe you noticed these changes and you’re considering giving your door a touch-up, or maybe painting it an entirely different hue. Keep in mind painting your front door is an affordable option and will help boost your home’s curb appeal.

Consider the following tips before applying primer:

1. When selecting a day to paint, be sure to check the weather to determine when skies will be clear, and the temperature is reasonable. Certain conditions like rain and humidity will increase the drying time, especially when the rain is touching the paint. When painting, the primer you use will be determined by the type of paint that was previously on the door. For instance, oil-based or latex. After identifying the primer, it’s time to select the color.
2. It is recommended to test your swatches throughout the day to see how the color looks day and night. To prepare for painting, clean your front door with water and proceed to sand with sandpaper, if you don’t have a sander on hand. In addition, you will need a roller or paintbrush to apply the color.

Repainting your front door can be done in one day, and should take about 3 to 5 hours. Remember you need primer and more than one coat to get the best results.

Plant A Small Garden

Whether outside in a yard, on a balcony or a small space in your kitchen for herbs, planting a garden isn’t hard and can be accomplished in a few easy steps. The most important part of this process is deciding what you’re going to plant. If you want to provide your family with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes, a vegetable garden is a way to go. Or if you want to bring color to your space, choose flowers.

Both flowers and vegetables need to be placed in an area that has 6 – 8 hours of sunlight per day. However, it is possible to plant greenery in places with minimal sunlight. Plants like outdoor ferns barely require sunlight to thrive. Begin the process by removing weeds from a flat area, then mix fertilizer and compost. The easiest option is purchasing ready-made soil to save time.

Finally, you can plant your seeds, but make sure to read the directions to know how deep to place your seeds in the soil and space them appropriately. You can also read tips from a master landscaping expert to understand your watering and garden maintenance options.

Create An Accent Wall

Accent walls can provide privacy and make any bland wall come alive. The materials you're going to need are a saw, drill, lumber, drill spade, sander, and a pocket hole jig. You can use pressure-treated 4x4s or untreated 4x4s, the difference is the pressure-treated version will last longer.

The height and measurement of the accent wall will depend on your space. In addition, an easy fix that doesn't require commitment is stick-and-peel wallpaper. This method can take up to 15-30 minutes to apply and can easily add patterns to your space.

Build A Fire Pit

Fire pits will allow you to appreciate your outdoor space all year-round. Thankfully, firepits come in do-it-yourself kits, so you do not need to purchase a circular saw to cut blocks. The first step in building your fire pit is figuring out the location and your local codes. Keep in mind that fire pits need to be away from the home and never left unattended. If you’re building your firepit on pavement, line the bottom with fire blocks to protect the material underneath.

Once you find the perfect location, mark the area with spray paint if you plan to install your fire pit on grass. Proceed to dig the soil and level out the dirt. Pour one layer of gravel that is roughly 2 inches thick. Even the gravel out with a rake and add another layer of gravel. Follow by layering three rows of bricks and join them together with a strong adhesive. Finally, insert your fire ring and you will be on your way to staying warm with a wood-burning fire in the comfort of your backyard.

Update Light Fixtures

Warm summer nights await you and your guests, so it’s a great idea to have a well-lit area for safety purposes. Updating your light fixtures can also help with your budget. Consider using LED lights to save on energy and your electric bill. If you purchased a used home, the chances are high that your light fixtures are outdated. Give your house a chic feel with modern light fixtures.

Hang Exterior Shutters

Exterior shutters can be made with different materials and come in different patterns, which is why this is a great way to enhance your curb appeal. To achieve a rustic look, you’re going to need a couple of cedar boards per window. you can cut the boards based on your desired design. Most importantly, to secure the shutters use exterior nails and waterproof glue.

Remember to drill in the corners of your shutters, and align them with your windows when drilling. Apply exterior primer and paint so to assure the shutters will not chip and can handle elements of nature.

Add A Deck To Your Backyard

Getting a professional to build your deck can add up in cost, which is why performing the task yourself is a great summer DIY. Before construction, it is crucial to find out if you need a permit. Ground-level decks are easy to build and generally do not require a permit, but it’s always best to check your city’s guidelines. Floorboard materials are going to be the bulk of your budget, so contemplate using low-cost pressure-treated wood for this project.

This specific project may take multiple summer weekends to finish. The materials you need will consist of concrete, gravel, bolts, screws, lumber, bricks and stain for wood. This project is on the high price end, so consider getting a personal loan from Rocket Loans® to expand your budget. Rocket Loans also offers same-day funding of up to $45,000.*

Preparing your house for the summer doesn’t have to be expensive or a hassle. There are many things you can do to make your home more inviting. You can select smaller projects like repainting your front, or you can consider adding a deck to the back of your home, depending on your budget.

Get a personal loan from Rocket Loans today to help with any unexpected or large home improvement costs. And if you’re looking for more home project inspiration, you can check out the Rocket Loans Learning Center.

*Same Day Funding available for clients completing the loan process and signing the Promissory Note by 1:00PM ET on a business day. Also note, the ACH credit will be submitted to your bank the same business day. This may result in same day funding, but results may vary and your bank may have rules that limit our ability to credit your account. We are not responsible for delays which may occur due to incorrect routing number, account number, or errors of your financial institution.