Home improvement need not be expensive! There are many budget-friendly ways to spruce up one’s home without breaking the bank. In this article, we present some great DIY ideas to help you make your home look better without costing a fortune.
Budget-Friendly Home Improvement Ideas
Replacing Outdated Fixtures
Swapping Outdated Faucets
When it comes to home improvement, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But the good news is that there are lots of budget-friendly ways to make a big impact on your home. Replacing outdated fixtures is one of them. With just a few updated pieces, you can completely freshen up the look of your bathroom or kitchen.
Let’s talk about replacing outdated faucets for a moment. A newer model can completely transform the look of your sink and give it a more modern feel. It’s also a great way to improve efficiency, as newer fixtures often use less water than older ones. When considering a new faucet, there are lots of factors to take into account, such as:
- Style: Do you prefer contemporary or classic looks?
- Size: Make sure it’s the right size for your sink.
- Finish: Many faucets come in different finishes, so pick one that matches with your bathroom décor.
- Price: You can typically find high-end models for under $500.
To get an idea of your options, we recommend you check out an online store with a great selection of fixtures — it’ll help you get a better understanding of what’s available and choose a quality faucet that you love.
Remember, when it comes to budget-friendly home improvement ideas, replacing outdated fixtures is one of the best ways to bring your home into the 21st century!
| Faucet Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic | $100 – $200 |
| Mid-range | $200 – $400 |
| High-end | $400 – $600 |
Upgrading Light Fixtures
Giving the home a facelift is key to keeping the space feeling fresh. One of the easiest and most budget-friendly home improvement ideas is to upgrade light fixtures. Replacing outdated fixtures or fitting your home with new, modern designs can instantly transform the look and feel of any room.
Materials
- Light fixtures
- Screwdrivers
- Wire stripping tool
- Wire nuts
- Protective eye wear
It can be done as part of a larger overhaul or as a stand-alone project. Whether you choose to tackle the task yourself or hire an expert, you’re sure to be impressed with the results.
“Installing new, modern light fixtures can easily transform the look and feel of any room.”
Getting motivated to tackle a home improvement project doesn’t have to be expensive. When swapping out old light fixtures, you’ll need to consider the size and shape of the existing fixture as well as the type of mount and wiring style. These factors can determine whether you’ll be able to install a new fixture without having to change the wiring.
Below is an estimate of the cost and time associated with replacing an outdated fixture:
| Task | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Buying new light fixture | $50 – $400+ | 20 mins – 1 hr |
| Removing existing fixture | No cost | 30 mins – 2 hrs |
| Installing new fixture | No cost | 30 mins – 2 hrs |
Having a plan in place is key to ensuring a successful home improvement project. So before buying any supplies, take the time to measure, research and create a budget.
Paint as an Affordable Upgrade
Painting is an easy and efficient way to improve the look of your house without breaking the bank. It’s one of my favorite DIY home improvement ideas, and you’ll be surprised at how much of a difference the right colors can make. Depending on the size of the area you’re painting, it could be an afternoon or two-day job. Plus, the cost of paint and supplies is relatively cheap considering how far it will go.
Paying for Professional Painters
That being said, professional painters are still going to be cheaper than other alternatives. A general estimate to hire a professional painter is around $2,000, depending on the size and complexity of the job. When looking for someone to hire, don’t forget to ask for references and check reviews online before committing.
Project Cost Breakdown
| Item | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Paint and Supplies | $150 – $500 | |
| Professional Painter | $2,000+ |
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Wallpaper Border | 1 Roll |
| Wallpaper Paste | As Needed |
| Scissors | 1 Pair |
| Ruler | 1 |
| Pencil/Chalk | 1 |
| Soft Brush/Sponge Roller | 1 |
“Don’t be scared to be bold with your walls!”
When done right, you can create a stunning statement wall with wallpaper borders that adds an extra touch of personality and individuality to any room. Plus, you know you did it all yourself—how satisfying is that?
“Happy Home Improving!”
Adding DIY Window TreatmentsDIY window treatments are a great way to give your home a quick and affordable facelift. After all, windows are often the focal point of a room, so why not spruce them up? Here are a few simple DIY projects that can be done over a weekend that will make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home.
Curtains
Curtains are a great way to add color and character to a room. With the right fabric, they can also provide essential insulation. Look for patterned fabrics that have a thick lining, and add playful accessories like tiebacks or colorful tassels.
Valances
Valances are a simple and elegant way to dress up a window without blocking the light. They come in various materials ranging from heavier fabrics to lightweight cottons. You can go for a classic tailored look or something more whimsical with rickrack or floral prints.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are a popular choice for their classic elegance and light-filtering capabilities. Look for fabrics with an attractive pattern, and don’t forget to add extra insulation with layers of foam or fiberfill.
- Measurement Tips:
Before starting any window treatments project, it’s important to measure correctly. Take the following into consideration:- The height from top of window to floor
- Window depth from wall to sill
- Width of opening in three places: left, middle, and right
- Tools:
Gather the necessary tools before you begin. You’ll need a measuring tape, scissors, pins, iron, ironing board and ruler. Depending on your project, you may also need a drill, screwdriver, stud finder and other tools.
By using DIY window treatments, you can give your home an instant facelift without breaking the bank. Have fun with different fabrics, textures, and colors to make a lasting impression in your living space.
Refreshing a Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank
Updating Cabinets With Paint
Are you looking for a budget-friendly way to update the look of your kitchen? Painting your cabinets is a great way to get a totally new look without spending a lot of money.
Changing the color of the cabinets, whether a dramatic shift or a subtle update, can keep the look of your kitchen fresh and up-to-date. To get the most bang for your buck, look for ways to keep the existing size and shape of the cabinets and just give them an updated color.
Here are some tips for making the process go more smoothly:
- First, calculate the cost of supplies. You’ll need primer, paint, brushes, and other supplies to get the job done. The cost of the paint should range from $25 to $50 per gallon, depending on the type and color you choose.
- Clean the cabinets using soap and water and let dry thoroughly before you begin.
- Sand the surfaces lightly and use plastic sheeting or newspaper to cover and protect counter tops, appliances, and any other surfaces.
- Apply primer and wait for it to dry completely.
- Once dry, apply two coats of paint and wait for it to dry completely.
- For added protection and luster, apply a topcoat of varnish.
Once you’re done, you’ll have a fresh new look for your kitchen without spending a fortune. What’s more, you can feel good knowing you’ve taken on this project and saved money!
Adding a Backsplash
Home improvement projects can be a fun and rewarding experience, but they don’t have to leave you broke. Here, we’ll be exploring one of the most cost-effective and impactful kitchen upgrades–adding a backsplash.
Why Add a Backsplash?
A backsplash is an inexpensive way to spruce up any kitchen. Not only is it an eye-catching addition, but it also serves practical purposes, like protecting your kitchen walls from water damage, food splatter, and grease. In terms of installation, it’s relatively simple and can usually be completed in four to six hours.
Getting Started
When it comes to selecting a backsplash, there’s no shortage of creative options. You can choose from a range of materials such as glass, stone, ceramic, stainless steel, or quartz. Some materials are particularly budget-friendly, such as subway tile. Depending on the size of your kitchen, an average cost for materials and installation can range from $500 -1200. (See table below for the estimated cost breakdown.)
| Material | Installation Cost |
| Tile | $400-900 |
| Stainless Steel | $900-1200 |
| Stone/Granite | $1000-2200 |
Creating a Beautiful Backsplash
Once you’ve chosen your material and estimated your budget, it’s time to get creative! You can get as fancy as you like with your design imagining. To keep it budget friendly, think about adding your own decorative accents like colorful paint, grout patterns, or even a few DIY mosaics! The best part? No matter what look you’re going for, there is a backsplash option that fits your kitchen and budget.
Installing a New Sink
When it comes to kitchen improvements, replacing the sink can be a great way to refresh a space without breaking the bank. There are lots of great options for budget-friendly kitchen sinks and the new look you get for the price can’t be beat!
Installing a new sink isn’t too complicated, but it does involve cutting into countertops, replacing plumbing, and resealing all the connections. All-in-all, you should plan to spend about 2-3 days on the project, depending on the specific sink you choose.
When it comes to choosing a new sink, stainless steel is the best budget buy, costing anywhere between $100-$500. This option is durable, easy to clean and you can still get an impressive range of styles with the budget-friendly price tag.
If you have a little more of a budget to work with, you can check out granite composite sinks or fireclay. Granite composite offers a very chic look for about $200-$600 and fireclay offers traditional style for around $400-$900.
When it comes to shopping for a kitchen sink, here is what you can expect to pay:
| Material | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | $100 – $500 |
| Granite Composite | $200 – $600 |
| Fireclay | $400 – $900 |
Once you have your sink picked out, you can start planning your installation project. Whether you are an experienced do-it-yourselfer or choose to hire a professional to help you out, take the time to shop around and get the best deal while still getting the quality and style you want.
Creating a Spa-Like Bathroom on a Budget
Installing Bathroom Hardware
When it comes to creating a spa-like bathroom on a budget, hardware can enhance the look. Installing beautiful cabinet, drawer and bath hardware can bring a touch of luxury to your bathroom at surprisingly affordable prices. But before you tackle the installation process, there are few things to consider.
Budget
It’s important to know how much you can realistically afford to put into your new bathroom hardware. Analyze your finances and calculate what you’ve budgeted for the project. This will help you narrow down options.
Styles
From minimalistic to contemporary, the range of styles of bathroom hardware is vast. You don’t necessarily have to stay within the same style of the rest of the bathroom either — try mixing different styles for a unique and interesting look.
Material
The material of the bathroom hardware is essential for its longevity and esthetics. Go for metals such as rust-resistant stainless steel, or timeless brass and bronze for a classic look.
Installation
Installing your own bathroom hardware is easier than you think. To keep it simple and stress-free, below is a breakdown of each step:
- Measure – Measure the distance between the centers of each hole in the bathroom door or cabinet
- Remove existing hardware – Unscrew the old fixtures and handles to be replaced
- Secure new hardware – Securely fasten the replacement hardware to the door or cabinet
- Check measurements – Make sure all measurements are correct
The more challenging part of replacing bathroom hardware is searching for the most reliable and affordable products that’ll fit your specific style preference.
To help you find the best products for your needs, here is a comparison table of popular bathroom hardware products and their respective prices:
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel robe hooks | $6.50 each |
| Bar towel holders | $9.99 each |
| Brass towel rings | $15.99 each |
| Glass knobs | $4.99 each |
Whether you’re looking for black or white, stainless steel or chrome, updating your bathroom hardware is a great way to create a luxe but budget-friendly spa experience without breaking the bank.
Replacing a ShowerheadMaking your bathroom feel like a luxury resort can seem impossible when you’re on a budget. But, as they say, where there’s a will, there’s a way! One of the easiest, yet most transformative, upgrades you can make to give your bathroom that next-level spa experience is to replace the showerhead. This can make a huge difference to your shower experience and doesn’t require much effort or money.
A good quality showerhead can be found for under $100, making it a great bang-for-your-buck home improvement investment. Newer showerhead models offer more advanced features, including water saving capabilities and multiple streams. Plus, installing a showerhead is often pretty straightforward and doesn’t require any special tools or knowledge, so even if you’re not handy, you can still do it yourself!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shower installations set
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
Replacing your showerhead is a cost-effective way to add a special touch of luxury to your bathroom without breaking the bank.
Once you’ve sourced the right showerhead and have all your supplies ready, it’s time to get started. First, turn off the water supply to the bathroom and open up the faucet to drain out any remaining water. Next, remove the old showerhead using an adjustable wrench. A few twists should be enough to loosen it up, at which point you can unscrew it. To fix the new showerhead in place, wrap the threads in Teflon tape and then screw it on securely.
Once installed, check that the showerhead is secure and check for leaks. Remember to turn on the water supply and then it’s time to enjoy your new shower experience!
Upgrading Towel Hooks
No bathroom upgrade is complete without a few new towel hooks. Everyone wants to give their bathroom that spa-like feel, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly towel hook styling ideas that will give your bathroom a unique and luxurious touch.
Repurposed Metal
Repurposing metal is a great way to give your bathroom an industrial feel while saving a few bucks. Coat racks, shower curtain rods, and furniture handles are all great finds for creating one-of-a-kind towel hooks. For example, those rustic coat racks can be re-purposed and easily mounted on the wall for an affordable and stylish look.
Colored Rope
Rope is a great material to play around with when creating artistic towel hooks. All you need is thick rope with a few metal metal fasteners and you can build many different styles that draw on beachy vibes. Installing two lines of rope and adding colorful fasteners creates a cool geometric look that pairs nicely with coastal-style bathrooms.
| Item | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Mounted Coat Rack | 1 | $50 |
| Thick Nautical Rope | 2 x 4m lengths | $20 |
| Metal Fasteners | 4 | $10 |
Total Cost: $80
With a bit of creativity, you can create the perfect spa-like bathroom without the hefty price tag. Upgrade your towel hooks for a fraction of the cost and start planning your next home improvement project.
Easy Outdoor Ideas for Splurge-Worthy Results
Enhancing Curb Appeal With a Fresh Coat of Paint
If you’re looking to instantly boost your home’s curb appeal, a fresh coat of paint is usually the go-to solution. Painting is one of the most budget-friendly home improvement projects out there, and the results are absolutely worth it!
Here are some easy outdoor painting projects that will have your home looking like a million bucks:
- Front Door Refresh: Pick a new color for your front door and give it a few coats of paint. For added pizzazz, you can try adding a pattern or stencil to the front of the door.
- Fence Transformations: Give your fence a makeover by applying a new coat of paint. It’ll give the entire yard an updated look in no time.
- Porch Facelift: Give your porch a new look by painting the deck and trim around it. Pick colors that match the shutters or trim neighboring houses.
- Shutters Standout: Old shutters can look incredibly dingy, but you can make them look brand new with a simple coat of paint. Have fun with choosing colors that match your house and landscaping.
Painting is an easy way to bring a boost of freshness to the exterior of your home without breaking the bank. With just a few coats of paint and the right colors, you can get the look and feel of a splurge-worthy renovation without breaking the bank.
Adding Colourful Window Boxes
Adding colourful window boxes is an easy, budget-friendly outdoor idea that provides big splurge-worthy results. Not only do window boxes add attractive curb appeal, but they require minimal time, effort and money. With the right design and materials, you can have a beautiful window box in no time.
One of the best things about window boxes is that they are relatively inexpensive. Depending on the size and type of box you choose, you can get a quality window box for around $50 to $100 (or even less) and they come in a variety of styles to match the architecture of your home. You can also buy pre-assembled boxes or assemble them yourself if you’re feeling a bit handy.
When choosing a window box, you’ll want to consider climate and weather conditions. Certain types of boxes are better suited for wet climates while others do better in dry climates. Additionally, window boxes are available in several materials including wood, metal, vinyl, plastic, and resin. Metal or plastic materials will be the most budget-friendly option, while wood and resin window boxes last longer and look more attractive.
Once you have your window box in place, it’s time to get creative with plants and flowers to create a beautiful display. Start by adding potting soil and fertilizer to your box. Then you can start planting flowers or herbs to create fun combinations of colour, texture, and size. For a truly unique look, try adding accessories such as birdhouses, flags, sculptures, or wind chimes. The possibilities are endless!
Adding colourful window boxes is an easy way to spruce up your outdoor space without breaking the bank.
It’s an affordable way to make a big impact on your home’s exterior!
Upgrading an Outdoor Arbour
Outdoor arbours can be the perfect addition to any garden or backyard. Not only can they provide a cozy retreat for enjoying summer evenings, but they can also make a major statement in an otherwise plain landscape. And upgrading an arbour to create a splurge-worthy result doesn’t have to be expensive—you just need a few key tips and tricks to maximize your budget.
Here are our top budget-friendly tips on upgrading an outdoor arbour:
- Buy materials in bulk: Bulk purchasing can lead to significant savings, so take the opportunity to buy materials like wood and paint in bulk so you can get your supplies at the lowest cost.
- Do the prep yourself: Take some time to prepare the wood yourself, by sanding and priming it first. This can save you big on labour costs while still achieving a professional quality finish.
- Reuse existing materials: Take a look around your arbour and see if you can reuse some of the existing materials like lattice sides or nails.
- Stick to neutral colours: Bold, bright colours can turn out fantastic. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, opt for stainable neutral shades that won’t break the bank.
- Add lighting for free: Using solar-powered outdoor lighting can add just the right touch to your outdoor arbour and won’t cost you anything extra.
By following these easy tips, you can upgrade your outdoor arbour without completely breaking the bank. And with a few splurge-worthy results, you won’t even miss the extra costs.
Budget-Friendly Home Improvement Ideas: Brighten Up Your Home on a Budget!
Home improvement projects can get costly, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t make your home look better with a few easy, budget-friendly ideas. From giving your furniture a refresh to adding some vibrant new colors to the walls, there are plenty of ways to improve your home without breaking the bank. Painting, wallpapering, and adding bright accents like artwork and rugs can all have a huge impact without costs skyrocketing. Plant some colorful flowers, overhaul your outdoor space, or even switch out the hardware on your cabinets and drawers for a fresh look. Small improvements can have a big benefit, and can help your home look better without breaking the bank. So what are you waiting for? Get creative and start planning your budget-friendly home improvement ideas and make your house a home today!