Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa December / Jan 2016 | Page 40

IMPROVING

Home Improvement

Ideas

Strip & Stain Wood Cabinets
Stripping and staining cabinets takes only a weekend,
and it will give your space a major facelift. Sealing
cabinets with polyurethane will also increase durability.
Begin by removing cabinet doors and hardware. Wipe
cabinet fronts and doors with mineral spirits to remove
any dirt, dust, and grease. Apply a gel-type stripper
per manufacturer’s instructions, and then remove the
stripper with a plastic putty knife. Next, sand the wood
with sandpaper. Using a disposable sponge brush, apply
stain in the direction of the cabinets’ wood grain. Allow
the stain to dry thoroughly, and seal with polyurethane.
Upgrade Your Flooring
Installing a hardwood floor can take longer than
a weekend, so choose a material that’s less timeconsuming. Start with anything that comes in a roll,
such as sheet vinyl, which looks better and lasts longer
than it used to.
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DEC/JAN 2016 SA Real Estate Investor

Add Storage to Your Entry
If a traditional entry closet or a beautiful builtin shelving system is not an option in your home,
refashioned furniture can achieve a look that’s equally
stylish and storage-savvy. This small-scale table is a
perfect size for beside the front door. Though compact,
the table’s drawers and shelf make the piece super
functional for busy drop-zone items. A wall-mount
shelf above the table hangs keys within easy reach.
Make Your Entrance Inviting
A cheery front-door color and a touch of landscaping
can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal -- and
make a lasting impression on guests. Dress the door
with new hardware, and add a welcome mat and potted
plants near the entrance. Consider installing outdoor
lighting to enhance your home’s architecture and
illuminate the walkway.
www.reimag.co.za