Quick Fixes 2009

One man's trash may be a valuable addition to your garden. Composting, or taking plant scraps and other organic materials and allowing them to decompose, is nature's own way of recycling. There are a variety of ways and ingredients, but at the end you'll have rich soil to work and grow with.

If you're in the mood to make some changes but your budget is holding you back, new doorknobs or cabinet hardware might be the perfect way to update your home. Most do-it-yourselfers can install door handles fairly simply with just a knob kit and a screwdriver. You'll need a key door knob for an exterior entry door and a button door knob for a bedroom or a bath.

If you're looking for a home decorating quick-fix to turn drab into fab, think lighting. It's one of the easiest and least expensive ways to change the "feel" of any room. For celebrity designer Frank Fontana, host of HGTV's "Design on a Dime," the solution can be as simple as adding dimmer switches. "I think no lighting situation should be without dimmers," he said -- especially if you want to be "the master of your ambiance."

It may look easy on those home improvement shows, but installing tile in a bathroom or kitchen is a complicated project that -- done well -- adds to the value of your home. But there's no need to be afraid if you're following these simple guidelines:

Each year, the average homeowner spends approximately $2,000 a year on energy bills, and in this economy, finding ways to save on home energy costs is a top priority. Luckily, you'll find several national programs established to help you in your efforts towards using less energy, and spending less money for it.

Over time, cracks may appear in your drywall. Here is a brief lesson on how to restore your wall's appearance.