Every home can use a little improvement. Kitchens need new cabinets and countertops, bathrooms need new tiles, walls need new paint, and heating and cooling systems always require updates. As your to-do list grows, so will your list of necessary building materials. To make this list less intimidating, prioritize your home projects and tackle them one by one. Follow these home improvement suggestions that fit every budget and schedule.
Bring new life to your walls with paint, wallpaper or wall tiles.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to freshen up a space, start with the walls. A quick coat of paint can take a room from dull to lively with minimal effort. Start by painting an accent wall in a bedroom; who knows, it may inspire you to redecorate! Feeling a little more adventurous? Go for wallpaper with a daring pattern, but use it sparingly so as not to overpower the room. If it’s the kitchen or bathroom that needs a little TLC, replace your old tile backsplash or add accent tile for visual interest. These updates don’t have to be permanent, so the possibilities are endless.
Update your floors, windows and doors.
Replacing any of these requires a bit more money and commitment but is a great long-term investment. Swapping out old windows not only will look amazing, but will help insulate your home and potentially cut down on heating and cooling costs. Bringing in new interior or exterior doors can both change the style of your home and minimize the transfer of noise inside and out. Trying to choose the right option for any of these products is enough to make anyone’s head spin (especially for flooring — hardwood, laminate, carpet!), so it’s best to thoroughly research your options and consult a professional if needed.
Restyle your kitchen or bathroom with new fixtures.
It might not seem like it, but sinks and toilets have a profound impact on the style of a space. People will notice when you get a new farm sink or a waterfall faucet. In fact, a new bathroom fixture is an excellent conversation starter! For those of you thinking small scale, go for the new kitchen faucet or deluxe showerhead you’ve been eyeing (you deserve it). If you’ve got room in your budget for something more substantial, replace your kitchen sink, bathtub or shower or even your toilet.
It’s all in the details: Change your hardware or millwork.
Want to update your look without breaking out the sledgehammer? Swap out some hardware or add some architectural details. Changing knobs, pulls and handles on cabinets or drawers is an easy and rewarding do-it-yourself project that will make a big impact. Even those dated towel bars and hooks need to be updated from time to time. Have fun with new switch plates that coordinate with the rest of your home’s decor. Also, think about what rooms might benefit from some millwork, such as crown molding, baseboards, corbels or appliqués. These little touches are what make a home feel finished and inviting.
Browse our home improvement section to find the products you love.
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