With a few simple DIY projects, you can maximize your home improvements without breaking the bank. Whether you’re doing renovations to up the resale or just to spruce up your living space, these cost-effective projects can get you impressive results.
You don’t need to spend loads of cash to spruce up your home, so arm yourself with a plan of action and some muscle power. Here are some projects you can do on a budget:
First, spruce up the walls. A few gallons of paint can transform any room. Select colors that complement each other, and be sure to properly prep the walls for an even finish. Plus, painting is easier with a few helpers so don’t be afraid to ask your family and friends for assistance.
Second, refinish or replace the flooring. Carpeting is fine, but for a fraction of the price, you can opt for laminate or linoleum. If you have wood floors, you can refinish them. If you’ve got carpets, consider steam cleaning them if they’re still in decent shape.
Third, tackle basic repairs. Minor repairs are easy to do yourself, and can be done very inexpensively. If you have a hole in the wall, you can use spackle and a putty knife to fill it. If the walls need a quick facelift, consider changing out the outlet and switch plate covers. And if the furniture needs a refresher, you can easily sand and paint old pieces.
Fourth, reorganize the furniture. With just a few tweaks, you can come up with a completely different look, with no extra cost. Try rearranging furniture or replacing pieces with items you already own. Moving the sofa, changing the rug, or repurposing old furniture can give the room a whole new vibe.
Fifth, make your own decor. You can hang artwork you already own or create display items from materials you have laying around such as paint chips, fabric, or driftwood. Save the money you’d spend buying new art, and get creative with old frames or create your own.
Sixth, make a statement with the front entry. A new door, some plants and accessories, and some paint can update a home’s entrance with minimal cost. Change the door knob, paint a door mat, or create a memorable wreath to hang. Plus, a door knocker adds a nice touch with little effort.
And lastly, keep an eye out for bargains. Re-use whenever you can, and shop around to find great deals on used finds. You’d be surprised what you can find with some effort and ingenuity: thrift stores, flea markets, yard sales, and swap meets can provide plenty of bargains.
DIY Projects on a Budget: Exterior Upgrades
When upgrading the exterior of your home, you can find plenty of ways to create a fresh new look on a budget. Prioritizing recommended projects is essential to maximize efficiency as well as savings.
First, restoring the windows can go a long way towards making an older house look much newer. Replacing wooden windows can be costly, so try to clean and repair the windows instead. If they don’t have the old-time charm that you’re looking for, opt to paint them.
Second, we can’t forget the outdoor lighting fixtures. Installing lights along the walkway or outside the front door, and even along the front of the house, not only creates charm but also adds that sense of safety and security.
Third, it’s easy to give your house a little facelift with some paint. If you want to liven up your place without spending a fortune, consider a new coat of paint. Choose a color that is both classic and timeless — this means neutral tones– and select a durable paint that will last for years to come.
Fourth, sprucing up the porch is another simple project. You can add a bit of elegance with a few simple items such as outdoor furniture, plants and decorations. Unleash your creativity by adding a bench, some plants in containers, potted plants, and a few decorations or pieces of artwork to make it feel inviting and homey.
Fifth, cleaning up the yard is an effective way to spruce up the outdoors. Cut the grass, sweep away leaves and debris, trim the hedges and trees, and pull out weeds and any unwanted plants. Adding mulch will help keep the unwanted growth at bay, while also adding texture, shapes, and colors to the area.
Sixth, an outdoor area rug can lend your porch some extra pop. To make your own area rug, you can purchase a piece of indoor/outdoor fabric and staple it to a heavy-duty felt-backed rug pad This allows you to bring your outdoor décor to another level.
Lastly, welcome mats will add a nice touch to the entrance of your home. Whether you go for a cheerful welcome mat or something more creative, it can help your visitors feel right at home and ready to explore your home.
DIY Projects on a Budget: Kitchen Refresh
When it comes to updating a kitchen, little projects like painting, reorganizing shelves, or repurposing furniture can actually make a big difference without breaking the bank.
First, painting a kitchen can quickly update it, adding major wow factors at a fraction of the cost. Start by painting the cabinets, then it’s time to tackle the walls. A nice, neutral paint can go a long way, so don’t be afraid to try something different.
Second, if the countertops look outdated, consider resurfacing them. You can use spray-on paint or put on a new glaze or finish. If you need a lot of repairs, go for a more dramatic change like replacing the countertop with something a bit more modern.
Third, brightening up the appliances with some appliance paint can also be a nice touch. Choose a finish that won’t show every little fingerprint or smear. Make sure to apply the paint in light coats, and remember to prep the area first.
Fourth, upgrade your kitchen with drawers and shelving. Unused areas can be transformed with a few extra shelves or cubbies, the possibilities are endless. You can’t go wrong with inexpensive rattan baskets or plastic drawers for a clean and tidy look.
Fifth, upgrade your curtains or add some more to give the room a fresh new look. Consider selecting some heavier fabrics like velvet, although natural fibers such as linen and cotton are good options as well.
Sixth, reface cabinets for a little extra flair. You can reface the cabinets with veneer, which is inexpensive and relatively easy to install. You can also add a few pull-out shelves to maximize storage space.
And lastly, think outside the box with a unique wallpaper or decals. There are plenty of options, from everything from abstract designs to bold colors, and all at an affordable price. So, go ahead and customize your kitchen’s walls with a unique look.
DIY Projects on a Budget: Finishing Touches
Finishing touches can be as simple as adding throw pillows and blankets to a room, to more elaborate projects like finishing a basement or landscaping the backyard. Here are some suggestions to maximize savings:
First, details like curtains, drapes, and window treatments can take a room from “meh” to “amazing.” Before you invest in new window treatments, keep in mind that adding a few extra layers to existing curtains can also add a layer of luxury.
Second, including area rugs is a cost-effective way to make a huge difference in a room. A nice area rug can hide any minor blemishes on flooring and provide added insulation. If an old rug isn’t looking so hot, consider layering several smaller rugs or simply snag one off clearance.
Third, try reorganizing the furniture to emphasize different focal points in the room. A fireplace, altar, or bed can make a great statement. Switching furniture around also adds a contemporary feel.
Fourth, accessorizing can go a long way to personalize a living space. Adding a few items, like mirrors, artwork, and lamps here and there can make a room feel more complete. And if you’re up for a challenge, consider learning to make something yourself for added style.
Fifth, organize the home for an added touch. When the clutter is gone, the true beauty of a room comes out. And if storage space is an issue, try using furniture with built-in storage such as ottomans or even a coffee table.
Sixth, a fresh coat of paint can transform any room in no time. The best part is that a little bit of paint can go a long way, as just one or two walls create a big impact. For a more type, try patterned walls for a unique look.
And lastly, replace outdated fixtures or hardware for a modern touch. Consider trading out the sink, bathtub, faucets, or light fixtures in the bathroom and kitchen. With today’s improved technology, you can find trendy energy-saving fixtures for an affordable price.