As any homeowner knows, owning a home is not only expensive, but takes work! The average homeowner can expect to spend 1-3% of the value of their home annually on home improvements. There are ways to reduce costs while maintaining your home.
You can do an inexpensive remodel in your kitchen just by refinishing your cabinets instead of buying new ones. You can paint the bases and put on new doors and hardware for a completely different look. You will save hundreds or even thousands of dollars, yet will still enjoy a high-impact, new look.
Make the most of fans during the summer period. This will help keep you more comfortable while reducing energy. Fans help decrease the energy that is spent on the air conditioner. As a result, your electric bill can be decreased.
Light-colored roofing is a great investment. The lighter color will reflect the suns rays instead of absorbing them, reducing the heat build up in your attic. This is a great way to save on your monthly bills.
You have to replace filters when necessary. Not only is it healthier for the air that you breathe inside your home, but it is better for your heating and air conditioning unit. Many service calls to repairmen are because of build up due to dirty filters.
You can use spackle and some paint to fill tiny holes in walls. You can find spackle at hardware stores. You will probably only need to use a small bit. A bobby pin can be used to fill small holes, by applying spackle with the tip. After it is dry, using something fairly hard to scrape off the excess and make the wall smooth. Add a coat of paint. This will make the holes in your wall disappear overnight!
It is important to dust on a weekly basis. Dust bunnies can start creeping up after a few days, and that encourages allergens to interfere with your life. When you dust your accessories, you clear away dirt and check for fleas, spiders and ants.
Never discard doors simply due to dirt. You should instead remove the door and then sand down the wood. Then purchase an oil-based paint that you like and repaint your door using a roller. For a brand new feel, opt to change your doorknobs to a fancier design.
If you are looking for a cheap method when it comes to floor tiles, try using vinyl tiles rather than using stone or ceramic tiles. Vinyl will last due to its durability and water resistance, and installation is easy with the adhesive backing. You can find vinyl flooring as individual tiles or in a complete sheet that will cover an entire room at once.
Don’t buy furnishings with busy patterns. If you are buying things that have prints, this will stick you in a rut. Purchase furniture in solid, basic colors such as tan, black, blue, brown and green. In this way, you can change accessories frequently for a fresh new look. Pattern can be introduced through pillows, throws and other items.
Radiant Heat Tiles
Two-liter bottles can be used as containers in your kitchen. You can see what’s inside, and anything you put in them will stay completely dry and safe. They are great for grains, flour, sugar and other staples. You can put them into a fridge, freezer or cabinet easily. You can pop off the cap and the contents will pour right out.
Consider putting in radiant heat tiles. Radiant heat tiles distribute heat by using electricity and can be a welcome luxury on cold days. Fortunately, you can install them on your own by following the directions. You’ll be able to add this onto an existing project or do it on your own. The first steps inside a winter bathroom will leave your feet grateful for all of the hard work.
Don’t throw out your small baby food jars; instead, use them to organize your workspace. Screw lids to the shelf. Store little odds and ends like nails, screws, beads and jewelry making materials in small jars. Once you do this, twist these jars into place underneath your shelf. This is a very innovative way to store small items.
By following the tips and advice found here, you should be better prepared to tackle your next home improvement project. You should be able to save money as well. Through saving money and still making great home improvements, you can continue to enjoy your home and have some extra padding in your wallet to boot.
If you want to create a peaceful environment, pick out colors like blue, green, and purple in lighter shades. Utilize fabrics such as cotton or linen and not dark patterns and heavy brocades. Potpourri on the coffee table and a scented candle can also add serenity.
