Simple and Cheap Ways to Spruce Up a Room

You have been staring at the same boring walls for some time now, and the cabinets in the kitchen have lost their luster. How do you remodel without spending a fortune? It is overwhelming to think about, and the costs can really add up. With a couple thrifty ideas and some elbow grease, you can make any room in your house look fresh and new.

PAINT

Painting is the cheapest and quickest way to change the way a space looks. Many of us are used to boring white walls or a nice off white tan, which easily discolors over time and shows all imperfections. Crayon marks, scuffs from shoes, dents from moving furniture all show up and never seem to go away no matter how many times they are scrubbed. Whether you have blank white walls, or saturated colors, paint is reasonably priced, around $15 a gallon, and some brands are now eco-friendly and include primer such as Behr and Valspar. They might cost more, around $30, but if you are going over a dark color such as red, you can cut effort by using paint with primer. Eco-friendly options are also pricier, but cut down on that paint smell, and are a good options for homes with kids.

When selecting a color, think of what furniture is like in the space you plan on painting. If you have traditional items, think of a bright fresh color to accent them. Modern furniture pairs well with darker hues. If you have been looking at white walls for some time, take a chance on a vibrant color. Brighter colors will make rooms seem larger and airier and dark colors will create a mood or atmosphere for spaces. Anyone can paint, and getting some basic tools makes the process easier. Invest in some painters tape to make even lines, and a paint edger if rooms have lots of windows or high ceilings. A good roller and extension rod alleviates wrist and elbow pain. Make sure to move furniture and cover floors to prevent anything from getting ruined. Painting a room can cost less than $100, and can help transform your home.

REFINISH CABINETS

Those kitchen cabinets just don't look so great anymore. The paint is peeling, chipping, or the wood is long faded. Many people assume cabinets need to be replaced, but giving them a good refinishing makes a world of difference. Taking cabinets down and resurfacing them with a hand sander takes a little time and effort, but is well worth it. A small hand sander costs around $45 and taking cabinets down requires some patience and maybe and extra hand. Once cabinets have gotten a quick sanding, start with a layer of primer, and then paint with a high gloss color of your choice. White is always nice and clean, but a more modern color such as green, yellow, or brown makes stainless steel appliances shine. If working with wood cabinets, they can even be stained a new color. Minwax makes a line of color stains that range from red to green to black. Stains run around $7 for a can and it is suggested to add a layer of polyurethane when dry to finish wood. Polyurethane can cost around $10 for a large can and will be enough to finish most kitchens. For less than $100, you can make your kitchen look new again without paying for those new cabinets.

REPLACE FIXTURES

Outdated light fixtures, painted over hinges, and cabinets without pulls are eyesores and can date your home. Bathroom light fixtures are reasonable priced and can be installed without a professional. When selecting a fixture, think about colors and textures in the space and try to stay cohesive. Anytime dealing with electricity, make sure to turn all breakers off and switches are in the off position. Take your time and go slow. You will be rewarded when installing light fixtures. For under $100, you can find great fixtures at your local hardware store, and ask for help! Take along a note pad and write helpful information down so you wont forget later.

While you are picking out new light fixtures, select some new hinges and door and drawer pulls. Many times hinges are around $3 and new pulls can range anywhere from $1 to $10. For a small investment, you can spruce up any cabinets and make an area look fantastic. If your space is modern in design, select fun and modern hardware to use. If you want an antique look, there are many types to choose from. Have fun with your selection, as it isn't expensive and can always be changed.

No matter what you do, remember to take your time and that nothing is permanent. If you aren't happy with an item, return it for something different. Don't settle if you aren't satisfied. It is always a good idea to ask for help if you aren't sure of something. Your local hardware store is there to help. Have fun doing home improvements and you will be rewarded knowing you did the work yourself!