Weekend Home Projects Georgia DIYers Can’t Stop Doing
Georgians love rolling up their sleeves and tackling home improvement projects that add beauty and value to their properties. With our unique climate and architectural styles, certain DIY projects have become incredibly popular across the Peach State.
I’ve rounded up five weekend projects that Georgia homeowners keep coming back to – perfect for both beginners and experienced DIYers alike.
1. Weather-Resistant Outdoor Living Spaces
Creating a sheltered outdoor area has skyrocketed in popularity among my fellow Georgians. Our extended warm seasons make outdoor living spaces practical investments that families use nearly year-round.
Start with a simple pergola structure, add outdoor-rated ceiling fans for those muggy afternoons, and finish with weather-resistant furniture. String lights create magical evening ambiance while potted plants bring natural beauty. Many homeowners tell me this project dramatically increases how much they enjoy their property.
2. Porch Ceiling Haint Blue Makeover
Southern tradition meets modern design when you paint your porch ceiling that distinctive pale blue shade. Many Georgia homeowners don’t realize this tradition started with Gullah Geechee communities who believed the color warded off evil spirits or “haints.”
Today, I find this project takes just one weekend and instantly elevates your home’s curb appeal. The soft blue also naturally repels insects and gives the illusion of extended daylight hours – perfect for our warm Georgia evenings.
3. Raised Garden Beds for Southern Vegetables
Nothing beats homegrown tomatoes and okra from your backyard! Building raised beds has become my favorite spring project because our Georgia clay soil can be challenging for direct planting.
Cedar boards resist our humid climate and create beautiful, long-lasting beds. You’ll need just basic tools, some lumber, and a few hours to transform any yard space. The elevated design means less bending while tending your vegetables and better drainage during our famous summer thunderstorms.
4. Smart Irrigation Systems for Georgia Lawns
Installing a programmable watering system saves money and keeps lawns lush despite our scorching summers. The satisfaction of watching your grass stay green while neighbors’ yards brown out is worth every minute spent on this project!
Modern kits make this surprisingly straightforward. You’ll dig trenches, connect pipes, and add a smart controller that adjusts to weather conditions. My system paid for itself in the first year through reduced water bills and eliminated the need for lawn service during dry spells.
5. Historic-Inspired Window Shutters
Functional shutters aren’t just decorative – they protect homes during our unpredictable storm seasons. The classic look complements everything from Savannah row houses to Atlanta bungalows.
Building your own from cedar or cypress creates authentic character that vinyl store-bought versions can’t match. I love that this project combines woodworking skills with practical home protection. Properly installed shutters can last decades and provide instant shade during summer heat waves, potentially lowering cooling costs throughout Georgia’s lengthy hot seasons.
