When you think about home improvement, you may imagine major renovations that require a large investment of both time and money. But if you don’t want to break the bank, there are plenty of easy upgrades that will leave your home feeling fresh and new without running up your credit card or making you feel overwhelmed by the task at hand. These do-it-yourself projects include refinishing kitchen cabinet doors, laying new tile, and repainting rooms—projects that can be completed in just a few days without the help of a contractor and will also add value to your home when you’re ready to sell.
Floating shelves are a great way to maximize space in your home and come in many styles, materials, and finishes so you can find the perfect look for any room. You can even create a floating shelf out of a salvaged piece of wood if you don’t have the budget for something more expensive.
Installing a chimney cap provides both a polished finishing touch to your roofline and a layer of protection against harsh weather or small animals. It’s a relatively inexpensive DIY project that most homeowners can handle themselves and can be done in just one afternoon.
Replacing a doorbell with a smart device like an Amazon Echo or Google Home is a simple upgrade that will provide you with a more modern, hands-free experience and help you avoid being rung up by robocalls. It’s also a great addition to your home security system and will provide you with more information about who is at the door.
Crown molding is an often overlooked home improvement project that can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your rooms. It’s a relatively affordable upgrade that can be completed in just a few hours and can add a touch of elegance to your home.
New lighting fixtures can instantly brighten up a room and can make a huge impact on the overall look and feel of a space. If you have an older home with incandescent bulbs, you can replace them with ENERGY STAR-qualified LEDs that will save energy and lower your utility bills.
Plants bring life and greenery to your home and can be a wonderful source of visual interest. They also boost mood, reduce stress, and filter air. If you’re not a green thumb, try creating a living wall or displaying plants in decorative containers.
Replacing old, single-pane windows with energy-efficient models is a good project that will not only make your home more comfortable and attractive but can pay for itself over time through savings on your energy costs.
Adding a bench, shelving, wall hooks, or a shoe rack to your entryway can turn an unorganized space into a functional mudroom that will keep the clutter out of sight and out of mind. It’s a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal and will make it easier for guests and family members to drop their belongings at the front door.