Its gonna be rainy in NJ this weekend; how about an indoor project?

April is not quite here yet, but the April showers have already begun. We are expecting wet weather for most of this weekend. I don't know about you, but now that there have been a few warm days, I have a little spring fever - specifically, I am itching to take my home from drab to fab. Not that it is terribly drab - I think I've just been staring at the same inside walls for too long and I'm ready for a change.


Painting can be a wonderful weekend home improvement project for even the novice do-it-yourselfer. If you've already got plans this weekend or you'd rather not mess with painting yourself, give Handyman Matters and call and we'd be happy to paint your rooms!


If you are planning to do it yourself, you should consider some of the following preparations:

• Aside from the obvious of selecting a color, you will want to select the right paint and finish; talk to your paint store experts about how you use the space you are looking to paint (e.g. kids room needs to withstand a lot of wear and tear) and they can help you select the right product and finish.


• Make a list of what you need and get everything together: paint, primer, brushes, rollers, spackle, sandpaper sponge, hammers, screwdrivers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, rags, paint can opener, and drop cloths.


• Next, you want to prepare. Repair nail holes, cracks, and dents; wash off any dirt or other buildup, smooth walls with wet sandpaper sponge (tip: wet sponge limits dust); remove as much hardware as you can; tape off areas that won't be painted (mouldings, outlets, etc.); move or cover furniture and accessories


• You may need to prime; talk to your paint store professional about your specific situation


• Finally, you are ready to paint; take your time to ensure a quality job. Make sure you apply paint in the right order - ceilings first, walls next, trim next and floor last. Always start with the detail work around doorways, ceilings, and trim, then move on to the roller for a clean, even finish.

After you are done; relax and enjoy your newly updated space! Isn't it amazing how much of an improvement you can make in just a weekend?!