Project No. 1: Installing shuttersMaking these shutters is a pretty easy project, and it's going to save a lot of money. Two similar shutters made out of western red cedar cost $392 on the market.
One of the biggest mistakes people make with shutters is building them too small. If you're going to use shutters, they should look like they'd cover your windows — even if they're only decorative.
Most people like the shutters to fit inside the window frame. Here's a good rule of thumb: The shutter width is half the width of the window, and the shutter height is the height of the window.
In this project, the shutters on the side are 24 inches wide by 51 inches tall. The windows framing the door are pretty wide, and super-wide shutters would look awful. The trick here would be to use four shutters to cover the whole window. (Two shutters on each side hinged together.) Ours are only decorative, so we're just going to put one on each side, but again, the key is to make them look functional. The windows are 72 inches wide. Divide that by 4 (for the two shutters on each side) and you get 18 inches.
Here's how to make shutters:
Shutters are 24" x 51" and 18" x 51"
Use cedar 1" x 4" for frame. Cut cedar to length with 45-degree angles on each end.
Use table saw to make a ¼" groove in the frame.
Use wood glue and screws to secure frame pieces together.
Measure the inside of the frame to determine size of panel. Add a half inch all the way around.
Slide panels in place.
Use finish nailer and wood glue to secure.
On larger shutters, such as the 24" x 51", it is advisable to use a screw in each corner to reinforce.Project No. 2: Pressure-wash the house
Pressure washers can usually be rented for $50 to $75 a day.
Wear safety glasses when using a pressure washer.
When pressure washing brick, you want a PSI of less than 3000 to avoid damaging the brick (ours has a PSI of 1800).
Hold the wand about three feet away from the brick and spray.
For tough stains, you can add a cleaning agent to the pressure washer or use "elbow grease" and a stiff-bristled brush.Project No. 3: Lay new sod
The Hasslers' turf was beyond saving so we decided to install new sod, and it's a new variety that chinch bugs don't seem to like. For this project, we use UltimateFlora zoysia, a newer variety that's resistant to chinch bugs and also drought-resistant and tolerates wear better.
How to install sod:
Install turf along longest straight line
Avoid kneeling or stepping on turf.
After installing, roll the area to eliminate air pockets
In warmer climates, it's especially important to water within 30 minutes of installation.
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