Just the thought of home renovations can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re on a budget. But you don’t need to make major changes to your home to create major impact. There are many affordable home improvement projects you can do yourself that won’t break the bank and won’t take weeks or months to complete. All you need are a few creative ideas, a trip to the home improvement store and a free weekend to get them done.
Cheap and easy home improvement projects
From simple weatherproofing to just changing your light bulbs, we’ve rounded up some cheap home upgrades you can do yourself. These projects can not only save you money, but increase your comfort and make your home more attractive.
Paint, paint, paint
A typical first step in giving any room a quick makeover is to brighten up the walls with a fresh coat or two of paint. Painting a room costs on average about $210 – $430, making it a fairly cost-effective way to transform the space. Not only will it give your mood a lift, it’s one of the first things experts recommend as a
. In addition to the walls, consider painting your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, too, which can totally change the look of the area. And after you paint the cabinets, it may be a good idea to...
Update knobs and hardware
Got a screwdriver? Typically, that’s all that’s needed to remove your old cabinet knobs and replace them with new ones. Not sure which style to go with? Turn on your favorite home renovation show to see which styles and finishes are trending these days. You’d be surprised at how something as simple as a knob can upgrade the look of a cabinet door or drawer.
Switch to smart thermostats
These sleek and modern devices don’t only look cool, they can save you up to $180 a year on heating and cooling costs. Most brands also offer a smartphone app so you can turn up the AC from your couch or on your way home from work. Best of all, at between $250-$500 with installation, they can pay for themselves in a few years.
Add weatherproofing to windows and doors
Space heating is the largest energy expense in the average U.S. home, accounting for nearly 45% of all energy costs. Weatherproofing can help keep the warm air in and cold air out. This cheap home upgrade is as easy as making sure windows and door frames are sufficiently caulked and sealed. While you’re weatherproofing, add energy-efficient window treatments, which can help reduce summer heat gain and winter heat loss.
Redo the closets
You don’t have to hire a professional closet company to enjoy a completely redesigned closet. Install a do-it-yourself hanging system, buy a few stylish baskets, and replace the old light bulb with a more stylish light. And if there are extra dollars in the budget, change the closet door, too.
Upgrade bathroom faucets and shower head
Give your bathroom(s) a high-end look for a low cost by upgrading your faucets and shower head. Want to feel like you’re in a fancy spa? Install a rainfall shower head, with the most popular brands starting as low as $27.50 Want to save money on your water bill? Replacing old, inefficient bathroom faucets with WaterSense-labeled models can save the average family nearly 11,000 gallons of water over the faucets' lifetime, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Add new lighting fixtures
You can add a bit of fun, ambience or sophistication to any room with just the flip of a light switch. Look for light fixtures that bring the character and charm your room needs. And if you’d like to update your exterior lighting too, but can’t find room in the budget, consider painting instead of replacing them.
Enhance curb appeal
Buy a new doormat. Add potted plants and flowers. Replace your door knocker, handle and peephole. There are a number of easy exterior improvements you can make to add a fresh touch to the outside of your home.
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