5 Summer Home Improvement Ideas

After being in lockdown for so long, it can be easy to run out of exciting ideas to pass the time. However, I have found it to be a wonderful time to work on home projects that I had been putting off. If you need some inspiration, I’ve put together a list of five summer home improvement projects you can try. They are great ways to pass time while feeling productive!

Build A Rain Barrel

A rain barrel outside a home with flowers on top of it and a watering can next to it.

Rain barrels are perfect for Florida summers since we get a lot of rain. They help save water and are way cheaper than buying them new. The only required tools you need to build a rain barrel are a 2-¼ hole saw and a cordless drill. 

You can make your own rain barrels using plastic drums or trash cans. Along with your barrels, you’ll need simple PVC plumbing and electrical conduit fittings. Line up as many barrels as you prefer to meet your watering needs. If you have large gardens, you’ll want to store more water.

Start an Herb Garden

A walkable herb garden with gravel pathways.

There’s something so satisfying about using fresh herbs from your very own garden. All you need for an herb garden is sunshine, water, soil that drains well, and some fertilizer or compost. Although herbs can grow in pots, they grow best when planted in the ground so they can spread out.

The most important thing to remember is to grow your herbs in the right place. Be careful if you live somewhere like Florida where the temperature rises above 90. You’ll want to place your herbs somewhere that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. You could also place them somewhere they get filtered light like under a tree. They will need at least four hours of sun. Your typical herbs will grow one to four feet in diameter for each plant.

Give Your Front Porch a Makeover

A front porch with a porch swing filled with throw pillows, a coffee table, a chair, a rug, and a few plants.

Your front porch is one of the first things you see when you arrive home, why not make it as pleasant as possible? A beautiful front porch can enhance your curb appeal and make your home more welcoming. It can also provide a nice spot to sit outside and enjoy some fresh air.

You can give your front porch a makeover by adding plants. This is a perfect way to implement the biophilic trend. Another way to enhance your porch is by adding seating. Add a couple of chairs or a porch swing. This can create another great place for your family to socialize and relax together.

You can also spruce up your front porch is by touching up the paint on your front door and shutters. To keep those pesky bugs and mosquitos out, you may want to consider screening in your front porch.

Organize Your Linen Closet

Zoomed in shelf of a linen closet with bedsheet sets tied with ribbon.

Linen closets can be the most difficult space to keep organized. But there are many tips and tricks to organize your linen closet more efficiently. By using these tips, it will be easier to keep your linen closet organized and presentable.

One great way to keep things organized is to use baskets or wire bins. Baskets are a great way to conceal things like cleaning supplies and toilet paper. I recommend labeling the baskets so everything is easy to find. 

Another great tip is to bundle your sheet sets together by tying them with a ribbon. Not only does it look cute, but it also prevents you from having to scramble through to find a matching pillowcase. Keep the presentation of your linen closet pretty by keeping some linens rolled and some folded. One last tip is to add a door rack. This is perfect if you’re running out of shelf space.  

Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets

A kitchen with an island and slate blue cabinetry.

Painting your kitchen cabinets is a great way to update your kitchen without having to break the bank. Make sure to get the appropriate paint for your cabinet’s material whether it be solid wood, laminate, or metal. Use high-quality, acrylic paint. It is durable and easy to clean up.

Depending on the condition of the existing paint, you may be able to paint over it. However, if the paint is not in good condition, you’ll want to remove it first. Make sure to prime your kitchen cabinets so the paint will stick. Another way to update your kitchen is by adding accessories with geometric patterns, which are trending this year.

I hope these summer home improvement projects help you make the most of your time at home. After you complete any of these projects, you’ll feel accomplished and will be able to enjoy the benefits of your labor. Which are you most excited to tackle?

Warm Regards,
Megan