The latest statistics show that in 2016, U.S. homeowners spent an average of $5,157 on home improvement. If you just purchased a home among the Indianapolis offerings and don’t have a lot of cash left to spare or are on a tight budget that doesn’t allow for a pricey home improvement project, there are lots of options that are only a fraction of that total cost.
Refresh the Paint
If your walls are washed-out and need to be refreshed, doing some painting is an inexpensive project that can transform the look of a room. Being of the most popular DIY home improvement projects, you don’t have to be a professional painter, and it’s a great way to add splashes of color to a dreary room. To make it look like a pro painting job, follow the step-by-step instructions offered by This Old House here.
Change Up a Bookcase
You can change the look of a bookcase easily, adding an exciting backdrop by applying fabric, contact paper or scrapbook paper to the back. If you aren’t sure that you want to transform it forever, you can simply measure the back panel and the mount your choice of material onto poster board, cutting to the size of each shelf.
Create a Message Center
A cheap glass panel can be framed and turned into an attractive message center that can be used wherever you need it. You can paint the back of the panel to complement the room, then frame it and use dry-erase markers to write reminders and other notes.
Wallpaper One Wall
Wallpaper on just one wall in a room adds drama with little expense or effort. It’s a great way to use more bold patterns, as a bold pattern on all four walls can be too overpowering. Start by taking a photo of the room and measuring its dimensions. Bring them to your local home improvement store and get assistance in choosing the best paper and the amount that you’ll need for the wall.
Keep in mind that some types are difficult to hang, so be sure to ask if it will be easy for a novice to tackle it. Before beginning, fill in any holes to ensure the wall is smooth as rough spots may show through. Seal the wall surface with an acrylic primer which will allow you to slide on the paper easily and tighten any seams.
Replace Switch Plates
If you have boring plastic switch plates change them out for fancy covers. There are all sorts available today, from ceramic and wood to metal, or even textured to blend in with a stone, tile or marble surface. In addition to light switches, you may want to replace cable jacks and electrical outlets too.
Paint an Unattractive Tub and Tile
If you fell in love with your home when you bought it but didn’t care of the unattractive pink ceramic tile in one of the bathrooms, painting can be a great temporary fix when you don’t have the money to spend on it right now.
Keep in mind that preparation is key. Clean the tile to remove soap scum, mildew and dirt using an abrasive cleaner and then wipe down the surface using a clean, wet sponge. Allow it to dry thoroughly before sanding the tile with fine grit sandpaper to remove gloss. Next remove any dust, let it dry and then paint.
