DIY Network

Ranch-Home Expansion, Pt. 1: Closet Addition A '60s-era ranch-style home gets upgraded with a bedroom remodel, new closet and bath. Check out more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-211

Steve and Kim Busheff have $60,000 to remodel their 1960's ranch house. The question is whether that will be enough to gut everything and remodel the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen — and whether that substantial investment yield a net boost in equity.

Projects in this Sweat Equity transformation include:

• building a closet
  
• tiling a shower
  
• installing a vanity

The kitchen, before the renovation.

The kitchen, after.

Before

After

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The new closet addition

Building a Closet

The Busheffs extended their new floor a few more feet, eating away at their budget and changing the plans for a walk-in closet. They decide to build a closet at the back of the bedroom, leaving more room for a sitting area. Below is a summary of the basic steps as seen in this Sweat Equity project, as well as a list of materials and tools used.

Materials and tools:

2x4 lumber
power drill
miter saw
compressor
framing gun
nails
drywall
drywall mud
drywall tape
drywall screws
closet materials: bar, hangers, shoe organizers, drawers
closet doors and tracks

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Steps:

• Measure your area.

• Build a frame with 2x4s on the ground from your measurements, setting your studs at 16" on center and securing with a framing gun.

• Lift your frame into place, check level and plumb.

• Secure the frame to the ceiling rafters and floor joists with a framing gun (figure A).

• Drywall your closet, then mud, tape and paint (figure B).

• Install your closet bars, along with any shelves and drawers you may want according to your closet design (figure C).

• Finish with closet doors.