10 Easy DIY Projects to Kick Off Summer at Home

10 Easy DIY Projects to Kick Off Summer at Home

Memorial Day weekend is here, and while backyard barbecues are a must, it’s also a great time to tackle those home projects you’ve been putting off. With longer days and warmer weather, summer is the ideal season to freshen up your space inside and out. Here are ten simple DIY ideas to get you started over the long weekend and keep the momentum going all summer.

1. Repaint Your Front Door

Want instant curb appeal? A bold front door color can completely transform your home’s vibe. Clean, sand, prime, and paint - it’s a project you can knock out in an afternoon and enjoy every day.

2. Light Up the Night

Add solar-powered lights to walkways, gardens, or patios for a warm, welcoming glow. No wires, no stress, just an easy upgrade that adds charm and function.

3. Build a Garden Path

Define your outdoor space with a simple path made from stepping stones, pavers, or gravel. It’s practical, pretty, and much easier than it looks.

4. Make a DIY Bench

A custom outdoor bench adds seating and personality to your yard or porch. All you need are some boards, screws, and stain or paint if you’re feeling bold.

5. Install Window Boxes

Brighten up your home’s exterior with flower-filled window boxes. Buy pre-made or build your own, then plant colorful summer blooms for a cheerful pop of color.

6. Refresh Outdoor Furniture

Give tired patio furniture new life with a coat of outdoor paint or fresh cushions. Don’t toss it, transform it.

7. Swap Out Kitchen Hardware

Big change, small effort. New cabinet handles and drawer pulls can modernize your kitchen in minutes. It’s the definition of low-effort, high-reward.

8. Start a Vertical Garden

No yard? No problem. Hang planters, mount pots, or repurpose a pallet to grow herbs, flowers, or succulents right on your wall or balcony.

9. Paint an Accent Wall

Pick a wall, grab a bold color, and make a statement. A new accent wall can completely shift the mood of a room and it’s a perfect project for a rainy weekend day indoors.

10. Update Light Fixtures

Swap outdated fixtures for something sleek and modern. Just be sure to cut the power before you begin - this project is about bright ideas, not sparks.

These DIYs are budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and designed to give your home a fresh, inviting feel without a major time commitment. So this Memorial Day weekend, fire up the grill and the paintbrush—you’ll be surprised how far a few small updates can go.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Got a home improvement question? Email Bob at info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” Questions may be considered for publication. To contact O’Donnell Bros. Inc. for your next project, call (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Why Is My Roof Streaky? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve noticed black streaks, moss, or patches of discoloration on your roof, you’re not alone. These stains are common and may seem like a minor issue at first, but they can lead to bigger problems if ignored.

The most common cause of roof streaking is algae, specifically, a type called Gloeocapsa magma. It spreads through airborne spores and tends to thrive in warm, humid environments. Once it lands on your roof, it starts to grow, especially on shaded areas where moisture hangs around. Over time, you might also see moss or lichen, which can cause even more damage by holding moisture against the surface of your shingles.

These growths aren’t just cosmetic. Algae and moss can wear down your roofing materials, shorten the life of your shingles, and in some cases, lead to leaks or water damage. That’s why regular roof cleaning is important.

So, what’s the best way to clean your roof? It’s not a job for a pressure washer. In fact, using high-pressure water can damage your shingles and lead to costly repairs. Professional roof cleaners use a method called soft washing, which combines low-pressure water with specially formulated cleaning solutions that safely remove algae, moss, and dirt without harming your roof or surrounding landscaping.

A proper roof cleaning usually takes just a few hours and can dramatically improve the look and health of your roof. It also gives a roofing professional the chance to inspect for other potential issues like cracked flashing, loose shingles, or clogged gutters that could cause problems later.

It’s also important to pay attention to any warning signs that there might be a deeper issue. If you notice a musty smell in your attic, signs of water damage on your ceiling, or poor ventilation, there may be moisture getting inside. That could mean your roof needs more than just a cleaning. It might be time to check insulation, repair parts of the roofing structure, or even have the roof replaced. 

Having your roof inspected and cleaned at least once a year, especially in the spring or early summer, is a smart habit. It helps catch small issues before they become bigger problems, protects your home, and keeps your roof looking its best.

And remember, roof work can be dangerous. Between the height, the angle, and the risk of damaging your shingles, it’s not something you want to tackle on your own. Always call a licensed professional who has the right tools, training, and safety equipment to get the job done right.

Your roof is a big part of what keeps your home safe and dry. A little regular care goes a long way in keeping it that way.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Tis the Season for Mulch

Mulch is one of the most effective and straightforward ways to improve the health and appearance of your yard or garden. It helps with moisture retention, weed control, and soil temperature regulation, while also giving garden beds a more finished look.

There are several practical reasons to use mulch. First, it helps retain soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which means less frequent watering. It also suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight from reaching weed seeds. In addition, mulch helps regulate soil temperatures, keeping soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, and can prevent soil erosion during heavy rains.

For organic mulch, there’s the added benefit of soil improvement. As it breaks down, it adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil, supporting healthier plants over time.

Organic mulch includes materials such as:

• Shredded bark or wood chips

• Straw or hay (used more often in vegetable gardens)

• Pine needles

• Leaves

• Compost

These materials break down over time and improve soil structure, but they need to be replenished periodically, usually once a year.

Inorganic mulch includes:

• Rubber mulch

• Gravel or stone

• Landscape fabric

These materials don’t break down and won’t improve the soil, but they’re longer-lasting and may be better for certain uses like pathways, around foundations, or in areas where soil enrichment isn’t needed.

The right mulch depends on your goals. For plant health and soil improvement, organic options are typically better. For durability and low maintenance, inorganic mulch may be more appropriate.

How to Apply Mulch

Applying mulch correctly is key to getting its full benefits. Here are the basic steps:

1. Clear the Area – Remove weeds and grass from the area you want to mulch. You may also want to edge the area for a cleaner border.
   

2. Prepare the Soil – Rake the soil to level it, and if you’re using compost or other amendments, mix them in before mulching.
   

3. Apply Mulch – Spread a layer of mulch 2 to 4 inches deep. Less than 2 inches may not suppress weeds effectively; more than 4 inches can prevent water from reaching the soil.
   

4. Keep It Away from Stems and Trunks – Leave a few inches of space around plant stems and tree trunks. Mulch piled directly against them can trap moisture and lead to rot or pest issues.
   

5. Maintain – Check your mulch periodically. Organic mulch will decompose over time and may need to be replenished once a year. Inorganic mulch usually needs less frequent maintenance.

Mulch is a simple and affordable way to care for your yard. By choosing the right type and applying it properly, you can improve soil health, reduce maintenance, and keep your landscape looking tidy year-round.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.