True Value Seeks Top DIYers Tackling Projects in First Homes

New Study Sheds Light on First-time Homeowners' Do-It-Yourself Habits

CHICAGO, July 14 /PRNewswire/ -- With home prices at a record low, many first-time homeowners are taking the plunge and tackling projects themselves rather than using outside contractors. In fact, a recent True Value survey revealed that more than half of new homeowners roll up their sleeves for home improvement to put their personal stamp on the space and make it their own.

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To give these new DIYers the recognition they deserve, True Value is kicking off the "DIY All-Star Contest 1st Home Edition." The DIYer who demonstrates their home improvement skills the best will receive an in-person consultation with Steve Watson, host of HGTV's "Don't Sweat It," and $5,000 to use at a local True Value store for their next project.

"On my show, I work with many first-time homeowners who want to tackle projects themselves, but don't know how to get started," says Watson. "With local expert advice, the right tools, and just a little elbow grease, new homeowners are usually surprised by how much they can accomplish themselves."

Weekend Projects for Novices and Experts Alike!

The True Value survey showed that nearly one in four first-time homeowners are afraid they'll make a mistake when it comes to DIY projects. To take the anxiety out of home improvement this summer, Steve suggests the following starter projects, along with tricks of the trade to ensure impressive end results. For the more experienced do-it-yourselfers, Steve also offers ideas that will take these projects up a notch.

Spice Up Your Kitchen

-- Beginner Project Idea: Nearly half of first-time homeowners find this room to be the biggest disaster area in the house. Changing the look of the room can be as simple as painting kitchen cabinets and updating the hardware. A tip for new homeowners -- don't prime or paint the doors while they're closed to prevent sticking.

-- Challenge: To make a decorative statement, create a tile backsplash that not only adds character, but also protects from spills and splatters.

Paint Like a Pro

-- Beginner Project Idea: One of the quickest ways to brighten the look of any room is with a fresh coat of paint; in fact, more than three out of four first-time homeowners would take on this project themselves. To make it look like a professional job, prime and then apply the first coat of paint in 6-foot square sections, using a zigzag pattern of overlapping W-shaped strokes. Steve suggests starting with the ceiling first and then moving onto the walls.

-- Challenge: More experienced DIYers can use custom finishes and designs (such as striping, diamonds and color blocking) to add visual interest.

Ready, Set, Storage

-- Beginner Project Idea: Create instant storage options by installing adjustable shelving or building a closet organizer to maximize space. A smart idea is to attach the shelves to the supporting brackets for added stability.

-- Challenge: Installing sliding closet doors hides items away and gives rooms a fresh new look.

Cultivate a Green Thumb

-- Beginner Project Idea: More than 70 percent of first-time homeowners would install energy-efficient light bulbs to help the environment, but not many realize this project can extend to the outdoors as well. Set up energy-saving accent lighting to improve a home's curb appeal. For additional ways to make an impact, True Value offers the Greener Options(TM) product line that includes hundreds of eco-friendly items.

-- Challenge: Building a compost bin is an easy do-it-yourself project that only takes chicken wire and wood or metal stakes to install. Plus, it's not only good for the environment, but will help yards stay "green" by preventing plant diseases, reducing the need for fertilizer and revitalizing soil. Steve's favorite tip is to line the bottom of the compost bin with two garbage bags to minimize leakage.

Kicking off the "DIY All-Star Contest 1st Home Edition"

In 2007, True Value searched for America's home improvement all-star through the "Do-It-Yourself All-Star" Contest. This year, True Value's "DIY All-Star Contest 1st Home Edition" gives first-time homeowners the chance to show off a home improvement project they completed to enhance their new home and make it their own.

From July 14 through Aug. 22, 2008, visit http://www.startrightstarthere.com/ to submit a short essay, along with up to three photos or a five-minute video, that show why you -- or another first-time homeowner you know -- deserve to be named True Value's DIY All-Star.

Then from Sept. 4 - 18, 2008, America will be able to vote for their favorite from among 20 semi-finalists on StartRightStartHere.com. The grand prize winner will be announced in early October and will receive an in-person consultation with Steve Watson and $5,000 to use at a local True Value store.