Neighborhood News: For true ‘Cead mile Failte’ Mayfair’s Irish-American Heritage Center is a year-round St. Patrick’s Day!

Happy St. Patrick Day vector illustration with people having fun

According to several sources, more than 200,000 people of Irish heritage live in Chicago (and I’m one of them!) In fact, according to the Third Coast Review, Chicago ranks second only to Boston in the number of Irish people living here. 

With St. Patrick’s Day coming up on Sunday, March 17, Chicagoans will be celebrating…if they haven’t started already! One place to celebrate Irish heritage year-round is located in a former school building in the Mayfair community. The Irish-American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Avenue, celebrates Irish and Irish American culture through events, music, theater, literature, and language. They are also home to the Fifth Province Pub, The Mayfair Theatre, and unique meeting and event spaces.

The Irish in Chicago

According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago history, the Irish population grew from a few hundred residents in the 1830s, following the Potato Famine in Ireland (1845-50). Chicago emerged as the fourth largest Irish city in America by 1860. Unlike their counterparts in New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, however, Chicago’s Irish grew up with their city and exerted influence out of proportion to their numbers. Irish labor—first on the Illinois & Michigan Canal (1836–1848) and later on the lumber wharves, railroads, stockyards, and steel mills—contributed to Chicago’s phenomenal growth from frontier town to urban metropolis. As Chicago became even more ethnically and racially diverse, the Irish continued to be well represented at the highest levels of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and city government, especially the police force, fire department, and public school system.

A Place to Celebrate Irish Heritage

The three-story brick building, once known as Mayfair School and Roosevelt High School-Mayfair, according to Classic Chicago Magazine, stood empty for several years in the 1980s before the Irish American Heritage Association bought it, finally securing a site for the organization. The association was founded in 1976, but it was not until 1986 that the center opened its doors in the Mayfair neighborhood, with a mission to “cultivate the cultural bonds of the Irish and Irish Americans to Ireland through gatherings and festivals and by promoting cultural programming such as music and theater, literature, and language.” At the time of the renovation, members and local volunteers worked hard to convert the rundown building into what it is today. The center, especially the foyer, boasts of orange and green traditional Celtic designs painted by volunteer Edward Cox, who also designed the murals that decorate the building.

Today, you can trace your genealogy at their library, listen to authentic Irish music and during Lent, bring the family out for their Irish American Heritage Center Fish Fries! All-you-can-eat meals include fried cod, French fries, coleslaw and peas. There are movies and coloring for the kids, and the Fifth Province Pub is open. Food is served between 6:30pm and 9:00pm, and live music begins at 8:00pm. Irish Dance Schools are performing every week. This week, March 15, the (world-famous) Trinity Academy of Irish Dance performs.

St. Patrick’s Weekend Festival

It’s the return of the Irish American Heritage Center St. Patrick’s Festival, Saturday March 16th from 1:00pm to 11:00pm!

On Saturday and Sunday, come to  IAHC for traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, food and drink for purchase, children’s activities presented by Irish Community Services – including Wiggleworms performances, a day of Irish Dance Schools in the Mayfair Theatre, the Shannon Rovers, and an Arts and Craft Fair, with vendors selling Irish gifts. Visit the Library, Art Gallery and Museum for programming and exhibits and a used book sale. It’s everything you remember and more!

Tickets are $15 in advance for adults, $20 the day of the party, and children 12 and under are free. 

St. Patrick’s Day

The celebration continues on St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17th from 3:00pm to 11:00pm! Join IAHC for a day of music in the Fifth Province Pub, and children’s activities in the Erin Room. Doors open at 3:00pm. Admission is $10 for adults. Children 12 and under are free. Have a ticket for the Screaming Orphans at 7:00pm? Your admission is free. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

2024 St. Patrick’s Day

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Restaurant Review: Celebrate the wearing o’ the green at Ravenswood’s O’Shaughnessy’s Public House

neon light happy saint patrick's day 3d rendering

Happy St. Patrick’s Week!💚

There is no better way to experience ‘community’ in Chicago than by sharing a meal at an Irish pub. And in this St. Patrick’s Week, when many establishments serve 21+ only, one Ravenswood restaurant is serving up family friendly fare year-round, including their own kid-sized Bangers & Mash plates.

As O’Shaughnessy’s Public House  website states, the southeast corner of Wilson and Ravenswood “is forever tied to Chicago history, including at least two area legends. The Pickard Building was built by Pickard China in the 1890’s to house the artists who hand painted the imported white china stock. 

These artists hailed from England and elsewhere in Europe. Foreman Brothers Bank were located in the building in the 1920’s.”

 More recently, the building was longtime home of the (lamented and missed) Zephyr Ice Cream Shop.

The cosmic design elements of the Zephyr have been replaced by the warmth of a welcoming red exterior, reminiscent of a Dublin pub, warm, wood-toned interiors and Irish-themed, stained glass insets. To complete the pub atmosphere, Irish bands play  nightly.                                       

The emphasis here is the Irish pub fare, though a fair number of American and Mexican specialties (burgers, nachos) also reside here. Start with some unusual apps, like Shepherd’s Rolls… three egg rolls stuffed with Shepherd’s pie, and served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy. Or, O’Schock’s Egg Rolls, stuffed with corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese and served with Colman’s mustard aioli. Chips And Curry has Irish curry dipping sauce with fries.

It’s still Lent, so those giving up meat can indulge in their Fish Sandwich…a cod loin dipped and fried in O’Shaughnessy’s famous beer batter and served on marble rye, with melted Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. Those who haven’t given up meat can tuck into their Corned Beef Sandwich, a delicious, homemade brisket with melted Swiss cheese, whole grain mustard aioli, and grilled onions, served panini-style on a French roll. The Sullivan, named after a favorite customer, is a great with smoked salmon, crispy smoked bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and creamy caper aioli served on toasted multigrain bread. Sandwiches come with a choice of sides, including homemade potato crisps, fries or a side salad. Other side  choices, like mashed potatoes, are available with an upcharge. 

Dinner entrees are classic Irish fare. Bangers & Mash hasIrish bangers (sausages), mashed potatoes, onion gravy, and baked beans. Chicken Curry is aclassic Irish Curry chicken, wild mushrooms, sweet peas, onions, carrots, served with choice of fries or rice or both. Shepherd’s Pie, atraditional Irish dish made with ground beef, carrots, and peas in rich, savory, seasoned gravy, is topped with a mashed potato and cheddar cheese crust.

Their ‘Wee’ menu serves your children. Besides a mini-plate of bangers & mash, there are ‘Wee’ Mac & Cheese and ‘Wee’ Fish & Chips, among other choices for the wee leanbh (child).

Mine is not the only positive opinion. Here’s what a couple of Google reviewers said:

“Chuy is the best bartender AND the fish’n’chips are the best in the city of Chicago, bar none! The cod is so fresh and flavorful, the batter is deep fried to perfection, the “chips” are perfectly done, tartar sauce delicious, and the cole slaw is pretty good too! Great beer selection and wines are good. We will be back!”

“Neighborhood bar with yummy food offerings. I enjoyed their Shepard’s pie wheels, and rolls. My hubby loved the fish and chips. The shrimp pasta was delicious. 🍔 Burger was tasty too”

O’Shaughnessy’s Public House is located at 4557 N. Ravenswood Avenue. Monday-Thursday 11am to 1am, Friday, 11am to 2:00am, Saturdays for brunch (featuring their traditional Irish Breakfast) from 10am to 2am, and Sunday, 10am to 1am.  For more information, click here.        

SLAINTE!

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – March Garden Tasks

The weather around Chicago has been unseasonably mild for this time of year. Of course, it is still the Midwest, and just because it’s 60 degrees today doesn’t mean it won’t snow tomorrow! But you can take advantage of these nicer days to get a head start with your lawn and garden. 

Clean and rake. Get up any debris on the lawn. It’s amazing how much accumulates during the winter! Take your pruners and clean up any deadwood on your shrubs. Much easier to take care of now before they leaf out. Trees need branches removed that aim inwards or cross another branch. They need airflow. Shrubs too. Remove interior branches on hydrangeas and lilacs. 

Fertilize and overseed. Do this as soon as the ground temperatures are at least 50 degrees. Carefully rake any leaves into beds and leave them undisturbed till later in spring. Beneficial insects are still slumbering there. The lawn will really take off with the spring temperatures. 

Give all the bird feeders a good cleaning. Do the same if you have bird boxes. You can prevent disease from spreading among your bird populations. If you have any water features on your property, clean them also. Even a small bird bath can have algae or too much nitrogen from leaves. 

Divide your spring tubers. You can do this as you see them coming up. You can dig them up and chop them in half. They are hard to kill and even a small piece will grow. You shouldn’t have to ever buy iris’ as you can propagate as many as you need. Hostas too can be divided several times and will thrive. It’s too late to plant spring bulbs now but pay attention and even take pictures of where you may need to plant bulbs in the fall. 

Clean up your garden beds. It will mean less food for slugs and snails. Set out some slug traps. Shallow dishes of beer work great. Get rid of as many weeds as you can before they take hold. Pull them out entirely, root and all. Don’t till up the entire bed, it only brings more weed seeds to the surface. Use a broadfork to break up the soil for healthy roots but don’t turn completely over. This leaves the structures intact that have been established, like healthy mycorrhizae.  

Plant roses or prune the ones you have. If planting, follow the planting instructions for success. They need fertilizer, good planting hole preparation, and correct planting to thrive. Flowering shrubs need a good dose of fertilizer now too. These bushes need a high acid fertilizer like Miracid. 

So let’s get outside and get a good head start to give your lawn and garden a real chance to thrive this year. Now’s the best time!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Renting or Buying a Home: The Pros and Cons

Home key with house keyring with black calculator on wooden table

When it comes to finding a place to call home, the decision between renting and buying is a pivotal one with far-reaching implications. Both options offer distinct advantages and drawbacks that can significantly impact your finances, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Understanding the pros and cons of renting versus buying a home is essential for making an informed choice that aligns with your individual circumstances and aspirations. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key factors to consider when deciding between renting and buying a home, providing insights to help you navigate this significant milestone in your life.

So, you’ve reached that point in life where you’re thinking about nesting a bit more permanently. Welcome to the world of adulting! One big decision you’ll face is whether to rent or buy a home. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed choice (and maybe even impress your friends with your newfound real estate savvy).

Pros of Renting a Home

Flexibility and Mobility

Want to try out a new neighborhood every year? Renting allows you to pack up and move without the hassle of selling a property.

Lower Upfront Costs

No need to drain your savings for a down payment. Renting typically requires a smaller upfront financial commitment.

Less Responsibility for Maintenance

Landlord, I have a leaky faucet! Cue maintenance staff swooping in to save the day. Renting means fewer worries about fixing things yourself.

Cons of Renting a Home

Lack of Equity Building

While you’re tossing money into your landlord’s pocket every month, you’re not building equity for yourself. It’s like paying for a gym membership but not going.

Potential Rent Increases

Rent isn’t always stable. Your cozy little apartment could become less cozy if rent hikes come knocking.

Limited Control over Property

Want to paint the walls neon pink or install a quirky bookshelf? You might need to get permission first. Renting limits your ability to make major changes.

Pros of Buying a Home

Building Equity

Every mortgage payment means you’re one step closer to owning a piece of the pie. One day, that pie will be all yours (figuratively speaking).

Stability and Potential Appreciation

Buying a home can offer stability in a fluctuating rental market. Plus, if the housing market is kind to you, your property might appreciate over time.

Personalization and Long-Term Investment

It’s your space, your rules. Paint the walls whatever color your heart desires, and plant a garden in the backyard. Buying a home is an investment in both your future and your personal style.

Cons of Buying a Home

Upfront Costs and Financial Commitment

Buying a home often requires a significant upfront investment, including a down payment, closing costs, and other fees. This financial commitment can be daunting for many individuals and may limit their ability to pursue other financial goals.

Maintenance and Repair Responsibilities

Homeownership comes with the responsibility of maintaining and repairing the property. From fixing leaky faucets to major renovations, these costs can add up over time and require both time and resources to address.

Potential for Property Value Fluctuations

The real estate market is subject to fluctuations, and property values can rise or fall unexpectedly. This unpredictability can impact the equity homeowners have in their property and may influence their overall financial stability.

Financial Considerations: Renting vs. Buying

Comparing Monthly Costs

Renting often involves a more predictable monthly cost, as rent amounts are fixed for the duration of the lease. In comparison, homeownership costs can vary due to factors such as mortgage rates, property taxes, and insurance premiums.

Long-Term Financial Implications

When deciding between renting and buying, it’s essential to consider the long-term financial implications. While renting may offer flexibility, homeownership can build equity over time and potentially serve as a valuable asset in the future.

Lifestyle Factors to Consider

Family and Future Plans

Your family size and future plans play a significant role in determining whether renting or buying is the right choice for you. Consider factors such as school districts, space requirements, and long-term goals when making this decision.

Community and Location Preferences

Your lifestyle preferences, such as the type of community you want to live in and the proximity to amenities, can influence whether renting or buying aligns with your desired lifestyle. Consider your priorities and how they align with different housing options.

Making the Decision: Renting or Buying?

Assessing Personal Priorities

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy a home should align with your personal priorities and financial goals. Consider factors such as financial stability, lifestyle preferences, and long-term plans when making this important decision.

Consulting with Real Estate Professionals

When unsure about whether to rent or buy, consulting with real estate professionals can offer valuable insights and guidance. Experienced agents can provide market expertise and help you navigate the complexities of the housing market to make an informed decision.

Closing Thoughts on Renting and Buying a Home

Whether you choose to rent or buy a home, it’s important to remember that both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences, financial situation, and long-term goals. By weighing the pros and cons discussed in this article, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and aspirations. Whichever path you decide to take, remember that a home is not just a place to live, but also a significant investment in your future. Here’s to finding the perfect place to call home, whether it’s through renting or buying!

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Keeping Busy Awaiting Spring’s Arrival!

spring blossoms on mauve background with a daylight saving time begins concept

Usually, the month of March can be a rough patch for us to get through here in Chicago.  But not so this year.  Not only have we been enjoying spring temps already, but we’ll also be springing our clocks forward this Sunday as we await the arrival of spring!  But until then, this weekend offers a variety of events to keep both you and your little ones busy.

Stop by and experience all things Irish a week early at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day at Gallagher Way this Sunday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) located at 3637 N. Clark Street in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  This family-friendly, free event features traditional live music from the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band and the Old Town School of Folk Music, performances by the Trinity Irish Dancers, and Irish dancing mini lessons.  Plus, plenty of activities are planned to keep the kids busy with face painting, balloon artists, a make-your-own Rainbow Stuffie, and more.  As for you older kids, your festivities include green draft beer, specialty cocktails, Irish coffee, and Guinness.  You’ll be all set to conquer next weekend’s St. Patrick’s Day events in style!

There’s no better time to create an epic summer for your kids than at the Windy City Camp Fair this Saturday (12 p.m.-3 p.m.) held at Loyola University Chicago (1032 W. Sheridan Rd.) in the Rogers Park neighborhood.  You’ll be able to explore a diverse range of summer camp options that cater to various interests and age groups with over 50 camps on display.  In addition, exclusive discounts and special offers are only available at this fair.  And to keep the fun going all day long, you and your kids can enjoy thrilling activities, games, and exciting giveaways.  Best of all, it’s free and all under one roof!

Join the Haymarket Pub & Brewery (737 W. Randolph St.) in the West Loop for their Haymarket Sausagefest 2024 this Saturday (12 p.m.-4 p.m.).  As usual, not only does this event feature award winning craft beer and delicious food from the Haymarket’s own scratch kitchen, but it also features delicious sausages and beers from sausage masters and guest brewers.  It’s a sausage and beer extravaganza with over 20 encased meats and 30 craft brews!

For those who prefer wine over beer, the annual Uncorked: Chicago Wine Festival will be held this Saturday (6:30 p.m.-11 p.m.) at the Museum of Science and Industry (5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the Hyde Park neighborhood.  Guests can enjoy over 150 wines and champagnes from across the globe as well as other beverages such as seltzers, canned cocktails, and spirits.  In addition, there will be food vendors, a DJ, and exclusive after-hours access to the museum.  There are three sessions for this event: VIP admission ($110) at 6:30 p.m., Early admission ($85) at 7:00 p.m., and General admission ($65) at 8:00 p.m.  Also on hand will be a variety of exhibitions and experiences for an evening you won’t soon forget!

Discover one-of-a-kind treasures at this year’s Chicago Artisan Market this Sunday (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Morgan MFG (401 N. Morgan St.) in the West Town neighborhood.  This indoor market features over 100 artisans for their “Spring Forward” edition to celebrate small businesses who pour their passions into creating their products.  The market also offers Bistro seating to relax, have a bite to eat, a drink from the stocked bar, or an Artisan coffee, tea, pastries and desserts before heading back out there to hunt for your treasures!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Celebrating International Women’s Day at Ravenswood-Lincoln Square’s International Women’s Day Market

Old town French Quarter covered food and flea market inside in Louisiana city and people shopping

Giving credit to my 18-year old, Lev, for this post today. I was wondering out loud how to best focus on Women’s History Month for Neighborhood News. “Why don’t you talk about women business owners?”

Great idea, kid! And as it stands, women dominate the small business market. The Global Entrepreneur Monitor (GEM) says there are 80 women (small business owners) for every 1 man. Globally, GEM says women were more likely than men to be solopreneurs (1.47 women solopreneurs for every 1 man).

Celebrate women business owners during Women’s History Month with the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce this weekend, March 9 and 10, at their 3rd Annual International Women’s Day Market at Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Avenue.  The event runs from 10am-4pm each day. 

The market features pop-up shops curated by locals, women-owned businesses selling unique products from jewelry, beauty products, home goods, food, drinks, and more. Some of the women-owned businesses include Amy’s Candy Bar, featuring handcrafted chocolates, truffles, caramels, marshmallows, and candy. Andria Green will be featuring hand-block printed textiles and home goods inspired by nature & color, as well as illustrated art prints. Anne E. Terpstra Pottery bringsher ceramics and pottery. Others include Bon Femmes, featuring home decor, accessories, beauty products & clothing. All items at Bon Femmes are made and designed by women with a percentage of every sale donated to a woman led charity, and CHIRP Radio, a woman-founded and led, volunteer-driven, community radio station focused on music, arts, and culture.

In addition to The National Organization of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is sponsoring a Speaker Series at the event. On Saturday at 1:00 pm,  Melinda Herron of 103 Collection, will present ‘The Blueprint: Crafting a Winning Strategy for Retail Partnerships to Scale Your Brand,’ which “unravels the secrets to forging impactful retail partnerships and unlocking the potential to elevate your brand to new heights.”

It’s not all about business, either. Sunday at 3:00 pm Lisa Marsh, of Ms. P’s Gluten Free, presents ‘Getting Healthier One Step at a Time.’ As she describes, “For many of us rapid change doesn’t work well, we try diet after diet to no avail. While there is no magic pill for getting healthier, there are small steps that can be taken to get there little by little. Join me as I tell you how I am overcoming family health tragedies and history, to have a brighter tomorrow.”

The International Women’s Market is free. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: For Southern Delights in Chicago, try Junebug Café in Portage Park

Homemade New Orleans style beignets are small squares of fried dough covered in powdered sugar prepared for Mardi gras

Mardi Gras may be over for 2024, but quality Southern cuisine lives on at Junebug Café in Portage Park.

Who doesn’t love a great beignet and coffee to start the morning? Or a Hand Pie for lunch? 

This quality café is brought to Portage Park by a second generation restauranteur. As reported by Block Club Chicago, the sandwich business’ name is a small nod to Chris Murphy’s dad’s first restaurant in the suburbs, called Murphy’s off the Mall. I remember Murphy’s from my childhood. For me, Murphy’s was the place I learned to enjoy raisin bread grilled cheese sandwiches….an unusual combination at the time. I still make the combination today.

Before opening Junebug in Portage Park in 2018 (via Block Club Chicago,) Murphy was manager at Poor Phil’s Bar and Grill, also owned by his father, in Oak Park. Poor Phil’s has been a gathering place for my friends and family for several decades.

Junebug Café draws inspiration from their family’s French Creole heritage, according to their website, “as well as our beloved Grandmother’s enduring spirit. Most knew her as “Granny” and (whether you liked it or not!) she was truly everyone’s Grandma. Granny nourished us with love, laughter, and wisdom – washed down with her delicious coffees and snacks,” they say. “And we aim to share that same love and nourishment with all of our neighbors!”

So it’s with a seasoned palate and experience that Murphy and his wife Jacqueline are the owners of Junebug. Among the showstoppers here are their Fresh Beignets, fried dough sprinkled with powder sugar. Savories will enjoy their popular Meat Pie, with a flaky homemade pastry puff filled with ground pork and beef, green onion, garlic, and Junebug ‘secret spice.’ Or, their Breakfast Hand Pie, which is scrambled egg, bacon, Mamma Mae’s Cajun spice, green onion, and cheddar cheese, served with Creole Remoulade or Louisiana Hot Sauce.

Other specialties include their Debris (Brisket) Po’ Boy w/Side, which is a 10hr Slow-cooked brisket, tossed in brisket gravy, on a french roll, with Creole Remoulade, lettuce, tomato, and onion. It’s served with your choice of Cajun fries or Louisiana coleslaw. Junebug Gumbo is a New Orleans Style chicken and sausage gumbo topped with rice.

Caramel Apple Hand Pie has roasted Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, caramel, cinnamon and nutmeg, then fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a house-made vanilla glaze frosting.

Google reviews were ecstatic:

“I grew up in Louisiana and absolutely love this place. I highly recommend the shrimp poboy, beignets, and meat pie. The place is small and has an intimate Louisiana vibe. Staff is super friendly.”

“Love Junebug Café!! They have delicious beignets rolls & this years King Cake was spectacular! Great service helpful friendly and I highly recommend! Their delicious sweets with sauces and all really added to our Mardi Gras menu!”

Junebug Café is located at 4042 N. Milwaukee Avenue. They are open Sunday-Thursday, 8am – 3pm, and Friday-Saturday, 8am – 6pm. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Painting your kitchen cabinets

Painting old kitchen cabinets in white using a roller

Looking for an inexpensive way to spruce up your kitchen? Painting your cabinets can transform the entire room. Whether you go for crisp white or perhaps a trendy sage green it can really make a big difference without emptying your bank account. But you do need to plan correctly and avoid some common mistakes to get a good outcome.

First, don’t underestimate the length of time this project will take. From prepping to letting paint dry in between coats, it can take a while. Plan to spend at least a weekend or more (likely an entire week) doing a good job.

Second, remove the doors. It will prevent drips while allowing you to paint every surface of the cabinet, inside and out. Also, having the doors lined up in the basement or garage will keep the kitchen open during your project. 

Third, prep the doors. You will need to sand the doors and fill in any cracks with wood filler and let dry completely before painting. Use a damp cloth to remove any dust or particles left behind. You want a smooth surface for the paint. If you really think sanding is not necessary, you must clean the wood thoroughly. Any grease or grime will not allow the paint to properly adhere. 

Fourth, if you are not changing the hardware, make sure to label it. Even if you don’t have a lot of cabinets, it can be confusing later trying to match up the hardware. Number each door and bag the hardware individually numbering each bag to correspond with the door number. 

Fifth, prime your cabinets before painting. Many older cabinets have oil-based paint. Painting over with latex without priming would be a disaster, paint peeling off within weeks. Use an oil-based primer first. But even latex painted cabinets should be primed. It will give your new paint a better chance to adhere properly.

Lastly, let the cabinets dry long enough. The paint may feel dry to the touch after only a few hours, but it takes at least 48 hours for it to cure to a hard durable surface. So, don’t reattach hardware or rehang before then. Also, be careful about the next week or so not to bang or scrape the surface as the paint is still a little vulnerable.

Are you ready to tackle this project? With a little planning and forethought you can really transform your kitchen for a relatively small amount of time, effort and money!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

DIY Home Maintenance for Beginners

Male hands holding swatches and choosing the right color, work tools on background top view

Embarking on do-it-yourself (DIY) home maintenance projects can be a rewarding and empowering experience for homeowners. By taking the initiative to learn basic repair and upkeep tasks, you not only save money but also gain a sense of accomplishment in caring for your living space. This comprehensive guide is designed for beginners looking to enhance their home maintenance skills. From understanding the essential tools to tackling common household issues and creating a maintenance schedule, this article provides valuable insights to help you navigate the realm of DIY home maintenance with confidence.

Introduction to DIY Home Maintenance

So, you want to be a DIY home maintenance hero? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of fixing stuff yourself. No cape required, just a toolbox and a can-do attitude.

Benefits of DIY Home Maintenance

Saving money, feeling accomplished, and impressing your friends with your newfound handy skills are just a few perks of tackling home maintenance tasks yourself. Plus, you get to avoid awkward interactions with repair people who always seem to show up when you’re in your pajamas.

Common Misconceptions About DIY Home Maintenance

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be a licensed contractor or have a Ph.D. in plumbing to handle basic home repairs. DIY home maintenance is all about learning as you go, making mistakes, and maybe even swearing a bit – but hey, that’s all part of the fun.

Essential Tools for Home Maintenance

Forget about fancy gadgets and gizmos for now. All you really need as a DIY newbie are some trusty hand tools and maybe a power tool or two to feel like a true DIY champ.

Basic Hand Tools

Think hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers – the kind of tools your grandpa would proudly display in his garage. These are the unsung heroes of home maintenance, ready to tackle any loose screw or wonky shelf that comes your way.

Power Tools for Home Maintenance

For those times when elbow grease just won’t cut it, power tools like drills, saws, and sanders can swoop in to save the day. They may sound intimidating, but with a little practice, you’ll be wielding them like a pro in no time.

Basic Home Maintenance Tasks for Beginners

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty? These simple tasks are the perfect starting point for any DIY rookie looking to flex their home maintenance muscles.

Changing Air Filters

Breathing fresh air is pretty cool, right? Keep your HVAC system happy by swapping out those dusty air filters regularly. It’s like giving your lungs a little spa day – but for your home.

Unclogging Drains and Gutters

Nobody likes a clogged drain or overflowing gutter. Armed with a plunger or some drain cleaner, you can banish those blockages and keep the water flowing smoothly. Pro tip: gloves are your friends in this messy situation.

Sealing Windows and Doors

Don’t let drafts sneak in and sabotage your cozy vibes. A bit of weatherstripping or caulk can work wonders in sealing up those sneaky gaps around your windows and doors. Plus, it’s oddly satisfying to peel off the excess caulk like a DIY boss.

Troubleshooting Common Household Issues

When things go haywire at home, don’t panic – DIY to the rescue! These troubleshooting tips will help you nip those pesky problems in the bud and restore peace and order to your humble abode.

Leaky Faucets and Pipes

Drip, drip, drip – the sound of a leaky faucet driving you insane? Grab a wrench, tighten a few connections, and say goodbye to that annoying drip. Who knew fixing a leak could be so satisfying?

Electrical Outlet Malfunctions

When your outlets start acting up, it’s not time to panic or call an electrician just yet. Check the circuit breaker, replace a faulty outlet, or just give it a good old wiggle – sometimes, that’s all it takes to get the power flowing again.

Wall Repairs and Painting Techniques

Whether it’s a hole from an overzealous nail or a scuff that’s been staring you down for months, wall repairs are a DIY rite of passage. With a bit of spackle, sandpaper, and a paintbrush, you can patch up those imperfections and make your walls look brand new – no one will ever know about that hole you accidentally made while attempting DIY art.

Safety First! Tips That Won’t Make Your Hair Stand on End

Don’t Be a Fashion Victim – Wear Your PPE with Style

When it comes to DIY home maintenance, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is your best accessory. Rock those safety goggles, work gloves, and hard hats like the fashionista you are. Safety never goes out of style, darling!

Electricity is Shocking – Be Shockingly Safe

Electricity and power tools can give you a jolt if you’re not careful. Remember, you’re not a superhero; you don’t have electric powers—leave that to the comic books. Always unplug tools before adjusting or cleaning them. Safety first, electricians second!

Scheduling Your Way to Top-Notch Home Maintenance

Time Flies When You’re Maintaining – Monthly, Quarterly, Yearly Oh My!

Set a schedule for your monthly, quarterly, and annual maintenance tasks. Think of it as a date with your house—minus the wine and dine, more like a scrub and shine. Your house will love you for it, and who knows, you might even get a thank you note from your water heater.

To-Do or Not To-Do – Tracking and Prioritizing Maintenance Projects

Keep track of your home maintenance projects like a detective tracking down a sneaky criminal. Prioritize tasks based on urgency, cost, and your skill level. Good detective work leads to a happy home and a content DIYer (that’s you!).

Ready for the Big Leagues? Advanced DIY Projects Await!

Fan-tastic Moves – Installing a Ceiling Fan or Light Fixture

Ready to show off your skills? Installing a ceiling fan or light fixture is like a dance routine for your room. Just remember, you’re the star of this show, so shine bright like a diamond, DIY diva!

Home Exterior Makeover – Siding, Roofing, and You

Repairing or replacing siding or roofing materials might sound intimidating, but remember, you’re the boss of this DIY adventure. Your house will thank you for the facelift, and you’ll earn some serious street cred in the neighborhood.

Plumb-tastic – Upgrading Plumbing Like a Pro

Ready to tackle plumbing fixtures or appliances? It’s time to channel your inner handy(wo)man and show those leaky faucets who’s boss. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was your plumbing prowess. Take it one wrench turn at a time!

So there you have it, dear reader! From safety tips to advanced projects, you’re now armed with the knowledge to tackle DIY home maintenance like a pro. Just remember, a little humor and a lot of determination can take you a long way in the world of DIY. Happy fixing!As you continue to hone your DIY home maintenance skills and tackle more advanced projects, remember that practice makes perfect. By incorporating the tips and knowledge shared in this guide into your routine, you can effectively maintain and improve your home while saving time and money in the process. Embrace the journey of learning and growing as a homeowner, and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-maintained and comfortable living space. Happy DIY-ing!