8 Easy, Simple and Frugal Home Improvements

The following guest post was written by Marcy Tate, a home improvement blogger at Networx, Your Home Improvement Network. She works with remodeling contractors on budgeted home remodeling ideas.

8 Easy, Simple and Frugal Home Improvements

The average American’s budget doesn’t allow for extensive remodeling projects; even when budgets do, by now, most Americans have caught on to the importance of saving and putting away any spendable income.

However, there are some simple and inexpensive ways that you can give your home a little lift without spending thousands of dollars. You’ll be surprised at how small, simple changes can improve the look and feel of your home.

1. Switch Plates

A switch plate can be made out of numerous materials and is used to cover the area around an electric switch. There’s a huge selection of switch plates, from decorative glass to ceramic, antique brass, wood and more. This small addition can add so much to a room. Consider making your own switch plate, or simply painting your existing ones. Check Switchhits.com for an amazing collection of switch plates.

2. Pulls and Knobs

Pulls and knobs may not seem like a significant part of your kitchen décor, but they actually have a profound impact on your kitchen. Changing the pulls and knobs on your cabinets can completely change the look and feel of your kitchen. Most pulls and knobs are at eye-level and attract attention.

To change your pulls and knobs, first decide what kind of material will best complement your current kitchen design. Popular pull and knob materials include: wood, ceramic, stone, glass, brushed nickel, polished brass, antique brass, antique copper, stainless steel and more. Additionally, you can make your own cabinet pulls.

The web is full of simple tutorials, which even most beginner DIYers can follow. A few tips: Make sure your pulls and knobs are functional as well as attractive. If you have a family with young children, you may want to skip the glass art-deco pulls and knobs. Visit myknobs.com for some great ideas and discounted products.

3. Reface or Paint Cabinets

Refacing or painting your kitchen or bathroom cabinets is a budgeted way to give your kitchen a new look. Aside from saving you money, it will save you time and allow you to be more creative than installing new, pre-fabricated cabinets. If you are a do-it-yourselfer with an average-sized kitchen, you can pull off this project for under $100.

4. Paint

There’s no faster or cheaper way to improve a room than a fresh coat of paint. To give a complete new look to a room, you don’t even need to paint the entire room. Paint just one wall as an accent wall. For new wall décor, hang a few newly framed pictures of your family. Be sure to select frames that complement the new wall color.

If you can’t do it yourself, hire a neighborhood painter to do it for you. During these challenging economic times, many painters offer discounts and are willing to take on smaller jobs. Visit the website of Benjamin Moore for some great accent wall color ideas.

5. Wall Decals

Wall decals are very popular nowadays, as they provide a quick, affordable and quality way to update the walls of any room in a home. Look for vinyl wall decals, as they have the best reputation for the longest lifespan.

Many homeowners equate wall decals with children’s room décor. However, the wall decal market is huge, and wall decals are available in some very elegant patterns for even the most formally styled dining rooms. For one of the best selections on the web, check Wallies.com.

6. Area Rugs

An area rug can add warmth and style to any room in your home. Think out-of-the-box when selecting an area rug, and consider the various shapes, sizes and colors. One of the best places to look for discounted area rugs is overstock.com. You’ll find great quality rugs steeply discounted.

Alternatively, check into carpet tiles. Carpet tiles are very popular, as they are a cost-effective way to carpet a small room or small space. Check Flor.com, the leader in modular carpet tiles.

7. Mini-Bathroom Makeover

If you are trying to give your bathroom a new identity, then replacing your soap dispenser or shower curtain won’t do the trick. However, the good news is that replacing your soap dispenser AND shower curtain (along with a few other accessories) can make your bathroom feel fresh and fun.

For the most significant change, consider adding or replacing the following: window treatments, light fixtures, wall colors, framed art, pulls, knobs or the towel rack.

8. Address Sign and Mailbox

The address sign and mailbox are the most common porch items that homeowners let go. Updating yours will surely bring a smile to your face as you pull up to your home each day. This subtle and simple update will likely get noticed by neighbors and visitors. Mailboxes4less.com is a great place to start to get ideas for mailbox styles and address plaques.

Love home improvement and home DIYs?  Next, read 14 Home DIYs Every Homemaker Needs to Know.

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