Do It Yourself or Not? - Gene and Katie Hamilton

Feature Details

  • Frequency: 1/wk
  • Release date: Varies
  • Moves with art: Yes
  • Moves with multimedia: No
  • Available: International, U.S. & Canada

Do It Yourself...Or Not?

This husband-and-wife team helps readers figure out the skills, time, tools and materials they need to complete a home project. They also compare the costs of doing it yourself versus using professionals for the same job. Moves as a graphic with text.

Do It Yourself...Or Not? Samples

Install Landscape Speakers

If you enjoy spending time on the deck or patio, consider bringing your favorite music outside with outdoor speakers. The speakers are designed for permanent outdoor installation to withstand the elements year-round.

Build a Swing Set

To provide hours of safe and enjoyable fun and exercise outdoors, consider building a kid's play set in the backyard. A playground equipment company will charge $1,800 to install a good quality play set.

Build a Picket Fence

Is there a more traditional accent to a house than a picket fence? Before you begin any fencing project, check with your local building department about any ordinances that pertain to building a fence on your property.

Replace a Submersible Sump Pump

A submersible sump pump can be an important defense against floodwaters threatening your home. A plumber will charge $184 to replace a good quality 1/2 hp. submersible sump pump, but you can buy one and make the swap for $120, the cost of the pump.

Install a Solar Entry Light

Use the power of the sun to light up your front or back door entrance and provide security and safety in an earth-friendly way.

Stain Concrete Block Walls

One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to improve a basement is by staining its concrete block walls. It's a labor-intensive job, so it's good for a handy homeowner.

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