The temperature may have dropped months ago, but it isn’t until January that true hibernation sets in for most of us. All the more reason to get going on those home improvement projects, says Jeff Wilson, Athens resident and host of “Build-a-Deck” on the DIY Network, and “Restore America” on HGTV. “I know we usually talk about ‘spring cleaning,’” says Wilson. “But personally, I don’t like to spend a beautiful day inside, so why not get it all done when the weather is rough?” Not to mention, brightening up a room with a mini makeover can have a similar effect on your spirits, which tend to need a boost this time of year.

Here Wilson, who has worked in the home construction industry for more than 20 years and hosted countless shows on getting the job done right, lends his expert advice on some simple projects that do-it-yourselfers of all levels can take on.>>