Everyone wants to live in a space they love while also saving money on home upgrades? Fortunately, there are many inexpensive improvements that can make a real difference in the way your home looks. Here are five of our favorite inexpensive home upgrades.
1. Backsplash
A backsplash is a decorative addition to your kitchen or bathroom that protects the walls from moisture and spills. There are many possibilities for installing a backsplash that will give the room a nice new look. You can choose the type of material (usually tile), colors and pattern that your backsplash has to match your home design. This is a practical and attractive addition to any bathroom or kitchen. Pro Tip: Buy single pieces of your backsplash material before starting and arrange in the kitchen or bathroom to ensure it will match well with your pain and cabinets. Also, some materials are hard to cut (titles and metal) so be sure to prepare for that ahead of time so you do not run into a problem in the middle of your project.
2. Paint
There’s no easier way to transform the look of a home than to apply a new coat of paint! Whether you’re thinking of an interior or exterior paint project, this is something you can do yourself if you’re willing to put in the time. The key to doing a neat and professional paint project is preparation. Carefully research the color and type of paint you want to use and make sure you prep the surface, removing all debris, mildew and dirt. Pro Tip: Before starting, be sure to scrape and sand any areas that need smoothing and using primer will ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface.
3. Crown Molding
Crown molding can be a weekend project that adds to the value and aesthetic appearance of your home. You can choose from many styles of crown moldings to give your home the look that you prefer. This is an architectural detail that can give any room more depth and elegance. Pro Tip: Crown molding can be made of wood or a synthetic material such as polyurethane. The latter don’t warp and deteriorate due to moisture.
4. New Lighting
Both indoor and outdoor lighting provide you with economical ways to enhance your home’s appearance. You can find a large selection of lighting fixtures at local hardware stores or home improvement centers. Whether you use overhead light fixture, wall sconces or outdoor lighting, you can emphasize certain details in a room. Outdoor lighting can make your backyard, garden or driveway much safer and more attractive. Pro Tip: Always use caution when working with lighting or anything electrical! If you do not have experience, please contact a professional.
5. Landscaping
Putting in some time in your garden, or starting a new one will give your backyard a lush and beautiful appearance. Adding colorful flowers, either in the back or front of your home is an inexpensive yet very effective way to add beauty. Pro Tip: One trick that is both attractive and good for the soil is to add mulch to the ground. Mulch improves your soil, inhibits weeds and reduces the amount of water you need to use.
These are just a few ideas for home upgrades that won’t cost you a great deal to implement. For more information on major home improvement project, contact us!