Best DIY Affordable Home Improvement Ideas
Homeowners are now more inclined to make adjustments to their living spaces on a regular basis, whether it is to increase their property’s worth or enhance their daily living experience. DIY home renovations provide a cost-effective means of transforming your space, but they can quickly become expensive if precautions are not taken. Nevertheless, by acquiring knowledge and carefully planning, there are numerous methods available to give your home a new look without resorting to borrowing money or spending a significant amount.
1: Repaint the front door
The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50.
If done correctly, your front entrance can give the impression of a well-presented gift, creating a welcoming atmosphere and attracting people. Instead of purchasing a new door, consider investing in a new layer of paint, updated hardware, and improved trim. Repainting the door and modernizing the surrounding accents are inexpensive and straightforward renovations that can have a profound impact on your home’s look.
Continue cleaning beyond the entrance. Employ soap, a garden hose, and a durable brush to thoroughly scrub the exterior of your home. To expedite the process at a higher cost, consider renting a power washer.
2: Apply removable wallpaper
The cost typically ranges from $75 to $100 on average.
If you decide to paint the entire interior of your house, it can become expensive and messy. Instead of dealing with the hassle, you can opt for removable wallpaper. This type of wallpaper is easy to apply, as you simply peel and stick it onto surfaces, without the need for paste. Also known as reusable or temporary wallpaper, it comes in a range of colors, patterns, and textures, all of which can effectively conceal a dull paint job and instantly revamp any area within your home.
3: Add a new kitchen backsplash
The cost typically ranges from $200 to $300, depending on the material used and the scope of the project.
If you want to give your kitchen a makeover without doing any major renovations, think about putting in a new backsplash. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in terms of appearance. With numerous options of stone or tile patterns available, you can easily find ones that complement your kitchen space and highlight your cabinets and appliances. Additionally, having a fresh backsplash reduces the amount of cleaning required and can even increase the value of your property.
4: Refresh but don’t retile bathroom floors
The cost is on average $65.
Even though retiling the bathroom can be costly, it is possible to achieve a similar updated appearance by painting the current flooring instead of opting for new tiles. With a wide range of distinctive stencil designs and paint colors available, completing the task on your own can be surprisingly budget-friendly.
5: Repaint cabinets
The cost typically ranges from $200 to $600 on average.
If you have decades-old cabinets in your kitchen or bathroom, repainting them can be a cost-effective way to completely update the space. In addition to revamping the backsplash or tile flooring, this method allows you to achieve a fresh look without the need to replace the cabinetry, which can be significantly more expensive. Although repainting the cabinets will take some time, it is a worthwhile investment considering the relatively low costs involved.
If you aim to go the extra mile, consider purchasing new cabinet hardware as well. Ben Fisher, a property investor and owner of the Fisher Group, a real estate agency in Park City, Utah, suggests that a mere addition of brushed gold knobs and pulls can bring instant glamour to even the most basic kitchens. However, when undertaking such a project, be ready to fix any minor dings and scratches that may arise when removing the previous hardware.
6: Add some flowers
The minimum cost is $20.
To enhance the attractiveness of your garden, consider including a selection of vibrant annuals like pansies, marigolds, or petunias. Another convenient option to revitalize your front yard is to introduce a few potted flowering plants or “window boxes filled with abundant and seasonal blossoms.” By doing so, you will introduce color and offer pleasant views both indoors and outdoors.
7: Replace bathroom hardware
The cost typically ranges from $10 to $200 on average.
Replacing the faucets, drawer pulls, towel bar, or bathroom mirror can be a cost-effective way to upgrade your bathroom. These items are available in various shapes and colors, providing an opportunity to give your bathroom a fresh appearance. For instance, bathroom mirrors are offered in options such as wood-framed, steel-framed, or frameless.
8: Add new curtains
The cost typically ranges from $20 to $300, depending on the material used.
Draped fabric, particularly curtains, can greatly alter the appearance and atmosphere of a room. If you opt for ready-made curtains, they are readily available at affordable prices and can be installed swiftly. For instance, purchasing a trendy curtain rod for $6 from Wayfair and a discounted set of two curtain panels from Bed, Bath & Beyond for $25 would amount to approximately $30, offering you a fresh new look. In the case of non-standard window sizes, adjustable no-sew drapes with double-sided fabric tape would be a suitable choice.
9: Bring in artwork
The cost typically ranges between $10 and $100 on average.
Adding artwork to a room can bring fascination to it, and you do not need to possess vast knowledge in art or spend a fortune to acquire the ideal piece. You can search for wall art that captivates your attention and is within your budget. Thrift stores and craft stores are excellent starting points, or you can consider obtaining high-quality reproductions of renowned artworks or posters from museum displays.
10: Increase storage space
The cost typically ranges from $40 to $100 on average.
There are multiple options available if you are in search of a solution to store more belongings, which is a common desire. Utilizing a closet organizer can assist in tidying up and creating additional room to walk while enhancing its appearance. To expand storage capacity, one can consider incorporating new shelves in various places like the garage or living areas, aiming to organize or showcase distinct items.
11: Bathroom mini makeover
The cost usually ranges around $430.
If you have always desired the refined beauty of natural stone in your house, think about installing a new granite bathroom vanity top. It is an excellent and cost-effective way to achieve this. Granite tops can now be found at Lowe’s, Home Depot, and other home centers. The prices vary between $150 and $450, depending on the size. By adding a new faucet and mirror, you can complete the bathroom transformation and still maintain a budget under $500.
Start the project after ordering the new items and ensure they are all readily available. Thoroughly examine the items for any defects, as this is a frequent issue. Next, remove the old fixtures and repair any necessary wall damage. If the old vanity is still in good condition, retain it but give it a fresh look by painting it. Utilize spray paint for a seamless finish and to prevent brush marks. Additionally, swap out the old handles with new ones to enhance its appearance.
Afterwards, proceed to painting the walls before installing the new mirror. If your previous mirror had a built-in medicine cabinet, ensure that the replacement mirror fits properly in the current space. Expanding the space will significantly increase the scale of the task.
If everything goes according to plan, you should be able to complete the task of mounting the faucet, installing the new granite top, and connecting the plumbing within a span of a long weekend.
12: Wallpaper one wall
The cost on average is $280.
You are in for a treat if you haven’t been to a wall-covering retailer recently. Due to the renewed interest in wallpaper, stores now provide a wider range of options. Additionally, some of these choices come at surprisingly affordable prices.
However, don’t worry. You do not need to cover every wall in order to achieve a significant transformation. Simply papering a single wall will suffice, and this will make some of those exquisite, costly papers or fabrics within your budget. It will also reduce the amount of time, effort, and mess required to paper an entire room. This is particularly useful for a room that has plain walls, minimal baseboards and window trim, and lacks built-in features. By doing so, you instantly add a touch of character.
Start by capturing an image of your current room and determining its dimensions. Bring along these details when visiting the interior design or wall-covering store, seeking assistance from a specialist in selecting suitable options that complement your existing furniture. Moreover, the specialist will aid in choosing the ideal wall for the new wallpaper and provide an estimate for the required quantity.
Hanging certain papers, such as fabrics, rolls with uncut edges, and designer options, can be challenging. It is advisable to review the hanging instructions and seek guidance from the dealer regarding the level of difficulty. In case you are a beginner or have a preference for an expensive paper, it may be wise to consider employing a professional. The additional expense for a single wall installation should typically range from $150 to $250, which is reasonable.
Before starting, make sure to fill and smooth any holes in your wall. Rough areas could become visible once the wallpaper is applied. Afterwards, apply an acrylic primer to seal the wall surface. This primer dries solid and even, enabling you to easily adjust the wallpaper for a tighter seam.
13: Halogen track lighting
The cost typically comes to $180.
Track lighting allows you to place illumination precisely where it is required, including countertops, walls, or objects, effectively enhancing and brightening any given space. These small halogen bulbs emit a stunning white light that brilliantly enhances colors.
In recent years, the cost of track lighting has decreased and now numerous systems can function using standard household voltage. This eliminates the need for a Transformer during installation; instead, you can simply connect it to any existing junction box in the ceiling.
The system known as a “rail” which is suspended from the ceiling, as depicted, is designed to accommodate spotlights and pendants. The rails are usually available in lengths of either 4 or 8 ft. It is possible to bend the rail to enhance its decorative aspect and place the lights at any desired location along it.
Find rail system kits, usually containing three to five light fixtures, at home centers, lighting stores, or online. Consult manufacturers’ websites or browse through lighting specialty store catalogs to explore various options. This step is crucial, particularly if you intend to construct your own system or incorporate additional lights to the rail. Ensuring you acquire all the necessary components is essential.
14: Kitchen rollouts
The cost typically ranges from $40 to $80 on average.
Rollouts provide a simple and fulfilling method to enhance your kitchen. They enable convenient access to items hidden at the back of cabinets, essentially granting additional storage space.
If you prefer not to install the rollouts by yourself, you have the option to purchase reasonably priced but durable rollouts either online or at Lowe’s and Home Depot. All you need to do is attach them to your existing cabinet shelves using four screws.
Make sure to consider the door, hinges, and other obstructions when measuring the opening in the front of the cabinet, as ordering the wrong size is the most significant error.
15: Closet organizer
The cost on average is $100.
Having a tidy closet doesn’t require spending a lot of money. Wire shelving systems are affordable, convenient, and simple to set up. They enhance the storage capacity and also make cleaning easier. Instead of cluttering the floor, most items are hung on the walls, allowing for effortless vacuuming. Additionally, wire shelving prevents the accumulation of dust often seen with solid shelving.
With just a drill, a level, a hacksaw, and basic hand tools, even a beginner can successfully install a system. Start by measuring the dimensions of your closet. At home centers, you can find basic kits that come with a complete set of shelves and clothing rods, ranging in price from $50 to $75. If you prefer a more intricate system, you can either start with a kit and add additional accessories, or construct a custom system using readily available parts. Pay a visit to a home center to explore a wide range of parts and gain inspiration for the arrangement. Next, plan out your system by using masking tape on the back wall of your closet to outline the placement of shelves and other components. Alternatively, you can draw a plan on paper, but exercise caution when measuring if you choose this method. It’s worth noting that many manufacturer websites offer planning guides for your convenience.
Most brands have solid, drill-and-tap-in wall anchors that work well even in drywall. Use a hacksaw to cut the heavy wire shelving to fit your layout.
Make sure to also look for accessories such as shoe racks, tie and belt racks, and baskets to effectively utilize any remaining space and enhance storage possibilities.
Other tips for renovating on a budget
When investing in home improvements, it is advisable to focus on those with long-lasting benefits. The ultimate goal is to enhance the value of your property through any renovation you undertake. This encompasses not only visible changes but also inconspicuous repairs such as incorporating energy-efficient insulation or sealing cracks. By doing so, you can maintain or even augment the value of your home without incurring excessive costs, while also reducing your energy expenses during your time of occupancy.
Using upcycled or recycled materials, like pallets or scrap lumber, is a highly effective technique to save money on DIY home improvement by incorporating materials you already possess.
By adequately considering all the expenses, careful project planning, saving, and budgeting can prevent you from overstretching yourself and lessen the likelihood of maxing out your credit cards or depleting your checking account.
Final word: DIY home renovations on a budget
By thinking superficially instead of structurally, there are plenty of DIY home remodeling projects that can enhance the appearance of your living space. Although many of the suggestions mentioned focus on cosmetic changes, even a minor and clever modification such as repainting the front door or refinishing kitchen cabinets can have a remarkable impact on a room, a specific area, or even the entire exterior. With a little effort and creativity, you can completely revamp your space without incurring the costs of expensive upgrades.
