Homeownership is rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. When it comes time for renovations, those challenges can get stressful – and expensive. But don’t despair. The right tricks can help you keep your home in tiptop shape, without going over budget or getting overworked.
Paint
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room. Even better, this is something you can do yourself. That’s right – for only the cost of the paint, you can have a room that looks brand new.
- Create an accent wall in a different color. It’s super stylish – and it means you only have to paint one wall!
- Paint stripes for an interesting look that isn’t hard to pull off. Just follow the instructions at DIY Network.
- Remove removable items, like outlet covers and light switch covers. This can be easier than trying to paint around them. Use a multi-surface painter’s tape to cover up everything else you don’t want painted, like floorboards.
- To cover the floor, cheap plastic tablecloths from the dollar store will do nicely.
Floors
Floors take a lot of damage every day, but they don’t have to look old and worn. Update your floors with these ideas.
- Tired of your carpet? Tear it out with these tips from the Family Handyman.
- Install your own stick-on flooring. This Home Depot video shows how.
- Or create your own mosaic. This is a little more complicated, but you can follow the step-by-step instructions at Instructables.
- Or paint your floor. You can even paint a faux rug. HGTV has instructions that show you how.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
No one wants a grungy bathroom or kitchen. The good news is you don’t have to replace everything to make your bathroom or kitchen look new again.
- Give your cabinets a makeover with new knobs and some fresh paint. DIY Network has instructions on installing cabinet hardware.
- Use a toothbrush to clean grout.
- Fix broken tiles. DIY Network has instructions.
- Enjoy the look of granite without the cost. The Spruce lists cost-conscious options that include granite overlays and remnants.
- If cleaning your faucets with vinegar doesn’t do the trick, replace them. Lowe’s has instructions.
- Make your old appliances and kitchen backsplash look new with peel-and-stick stainless steel.
Storage
Feel like your home is too small? The right renovations can help.
- Use the space under your bed. You can buy rolling under-bed storage crates, or you can make your own using the instructions from School of Decorating.
- Use the space under your stairs by turning it into shelving or a cozy nook. Check out these tips and ideas from Houzz.
Other
Still looking for more ideas?
- Add mirrors. Mirrors can give the illusion of a larger space. Replace closet doors with mirrored doors. Add large mirrors with stylish frames to other spaces.
- Install new light switches. PlanItDIY has instructions and safety information.
- Update your baseboards or add wainscoting or crown for a finishing touch.
- Replace door hinges, knobs and hardware.