5 DIY Projects Every Dad Can Tackle This Weekend (With Tools He May Already Own)

Written by a Pro Installer Who Knows a Thing or Two About Making Homes Better, One Project at a Time.

When you’re a dad, there's a certain pride that comes from fixing up the home with your own two hands. Whether it's patching a wall, installing new floors, or crafting a solution from nothing but grit and a socket set, it’s in our DNA. The good news? You don’t need a workshop full of pro-grade gear to make a big difference around the house. These five DIY projects can be done with the typical tools most dads already have—and they’ll earn you a cold drink and a “Nice job, Dad.”

1. Upgrade Baseboards for a Clean, Custom Look

Replacing or repainting your baseboards can instantly modernize a room. All it takes is a pry bar, a miter saw (or miter box with a handsaw⁹), a hammer or nail gun, caulk, and some paint. Add a backer board or a slim top rail for a “stacked” custom look.

Tools Needed: Hammer/nail gun, caulk gun, miter saw or box, pry bar, paint supplies.

Estimated Time: 3–5 hours per room.

2. Build a Floating Shelf or Mini Display Ledge

Turn scrap wood into a sleek floating shelf for books, plants, or trophies. Use a level, drill, anchors, and a few screws. Stain or paint it to match your room.

Tools Needed: Drill, level, screws/anchors, measuring tape, saw (circular or handsaw), paint or stain.

Estimated Time: 1–2 hours.

3. Patch and Paint That Dented Drywall

Every dad has that wall spot—the one with the corner gouge or random mystery dent. With a little joint compound, sandpaper, and a fresh coat of paint, it disappears like it never happened.

Tools Needed: Putty knife, joint compound, sanding block, paint brush/roller.

Estimated Time: 1–2 hours including drying time.

4. Refresh Your Entryway with Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Tile

Want a fast, dramatic improvement that doesn’t require special tools or adhesives? Peel-and-stick vinyl tile is dad-approved. It’s budget-friendly, durable, and looks like the real thing. A utility knife, straight edge, and rolling pin are all you need.

Tools Needed: Utility knife, straight edge, tape measure, rolling pin.

Estimated Time: 3–4 hours for a small foyer.

5. Build a Backyard Tool Organizer from Pallet Wood

Clear the clutter with a vertical garden tool rack or backyard storage solution made from reclaimed pallet wood. It's perfect for shovels, rakes, and even kids' outdoor toys. Bonus: no trip to the lumber store.

Tools Needed: Saw, drill, screws, sander (optional), measuring tape.

Estimated Time: 2–3 hours.

You don’t need to be a contractor to make your home a better place. These projects aren’t just practical—they’re satisfying. You’ll learn new skills, get your hands dirty, and walk away knowing you built something that matters.

So this weekend, grab your coffee, dust off the tool bag, and get after it. Because every project tells a story—and these are the kinds of stories your kids will remember.