At this point, it may feel as though you have been stuck inside for way too long. It does not have to be a total downer, however. Wouldn’t it feel good to get something done? Besides, this pandemic can’t last forever and then you’ll be too busy for home repairs. So here are some simple do-it-yourself projects to keep both your home and sense of accomplishment in great shape.

1. Winterize Window and Door Frames

Windows and doors are the “moving parts” of any home. Before winter hits, it is a good idea to check your frames to make sure they are watertight.

Using a putty knife, start from the top ledge scraping away any cracked or brittle sealant. Then clear the area with a cloth, and apply silicone sealant into the crack. Wet your finger and use it to smooth away ridges that could collect water.

2. Smooth Over Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks that go underground can fill with wet mud when it rains or snow. This creates a “soggy plug” that expands when frozen and opens the crack even further.

First, research the frost line for your area. About 36 to 48 inches is standard, but you can check by zip code online. Next, dig a hole by the crevice that extends a few inches below your frost line.

Uses a small wire brush to scour the mud from the crack and then let it dry. Then check for moisture or debris.

If it is clean, apply sealant and let it cure as recommended. Do not cover the hole while it is curing, or this will increase drying time.

3. Reseal the Bathtub

That line of black mold along your bathtub has to go. Fortunately, getting rid of it is pretty easy. First, slip a utility knife into the edge of the old seal to create a gap. Then use a flathead screwdriver to pull the sealant out.

Next, using rubber gloves, apply mold remover with steel wool scrub out and bits of old sealant. Then wipe the area with a wet cloth and let it dry. Fill the tub with water, so the new sealant will be set while the tub is in a weighted position. They apply masking tape to create a neat edge.

Apply sealant into the cracks. Use a wet finger to drag along the bead and create a neat finish. Remove the tape half way through the dying process.

4. Hunt and Fix

This is one to do with your kids. There are probably a hundred little things around your house that need glued or sealed: the kitchen backsplash, peeling wallpaper. You take turns with your child pointing out and making easy repairs.

Teaching children to use a calk gun is a great introduction to tools. It is fun, not dangerous like a hammer or saw. It really can be a great bonding experience (pun intended).

But before you start, call us at 812-824-8000. Our experts will match the right sealant to your project and climate, and orders that are $35 or more ship free. Silicone Depot has what you need to get those quarantine projects off the ground!