Even with a great design/build team, there’s still a lot we do as the homeowners. We didn’t have to, but we added to our workload, and set things up for some finishing touches that will make the difference when you walk in the front door in a few weeks…
First, I took down the 1980s vibe mirror tiles that were by the front door. To no one’s surprise… the paint underneath was AVOCADO GREEN!!! AHHHHHHHhhhhh!!!! But when it’s scraped, sanded and painted, it will look really, really good. The stupid tiles had double-sided tape on the back, so that means extra prep for the painters before they start painting. But we kinda knew that was coming.
Then, in a fit of inspiration (and possible insanity) I decided to take up the ripped up carpet on the steps. It’s a good thing that we did, because in places the padding underneath had fallen apart, and there was a definite “aroma” to the carpeting that I don’t think we will miss. (Be grateful that blogs are not scratch-n-sniff!)
As with any demo job, the ripping out part was easy. Removing a gazillion staples and nails to finish the job on the steps was not! I conscripted our high schooler to help me, and she and I got 99% of the staples out. Then I vacuumed and washed down the steps. It’s already a huge improvement. Once the painting and so on is done, we will be re-carpeting the steps and upstairs hallway. But for now, the wood steps look much nicer.
So it was a little sweat equity, but I think it was a good idea. Don’t you agree?