There are likely one or more structural elements around the home that could use a little update, refresh, or additional care. Whether you’re a DIY type or not, these seven home improvement suggestions can be accomplished in a weekend’s time and at relatively low cost. And since summer usually has us in a more active mood, what better time than the present to roll up your sleeves? Focus on style and functionality for the biggest payoff.
Install New Faucets and Showerheads
It’s amazing how much a new faucet can improve the elegance and modern appeal of a bathroom. It doesn’t even need to be super expensive to look high-end. Make sure the configuration matches your existing sink or else plan to replace that also. As for showerheads, many new ones provide more options for spray style, angles, and temperature settings. Choose one that gives you a spa experience.
Hang New Lights in the Kitchen
Dress up your food prep and eating areas with an updated light fixture. Replacing an existing fixture is easiest. Turn off the power at the breaker box and connect the wires. Do a little research before you purchase something new to ensure it’s the right type for your kitchen style. For example, lighting that hangs where tasks are performed (food prep) should be about 30 inches above an island or peninsula, but could be higher for raised surfaces.
Install a New Backsplash
A ceramic or glass tile backsplash has the power to transform the age and mood of a kitchen. Stick to single colors without color or texture for small kitchens to maintain clean lines and a spacious feel.
Replace an Appliance
If you’re near the end of life on a major appliance, invest in an energy-efficient product that matches the style of your other appliances, assuming those will stay for the long-term. If you’ll be doing a gradual switchover on other appliances, the first new one means a commitment to color and material so that all appliances will match.
Dress Up the Fireplace
There are many ways to spruce up or modernize a fireplace. Dated mantels can be refurbished with paint or stain or completely replaced. Don’t have a mantel? Get one customized for your space. Be sure to match the style of the rest of your home. If there’s no budget for a major overhaul, simply decluttering an existing mantel and replacing items with fewer more stylish accessories in the home can make a difference.
Add a Built-In Look
TV home shows have popularized the built-in look for work spaces, foyer storage, under-the-staircase storage, and kid craft areas. Fortunately, there are plenty of bookcase, shelving, and cabinetry kits that allow you to assemble stylish storage yourself. The sky is the limit.
Enhance Outdoor Living
There are many front- and backyard projects to choose from that don’t require a contractor for hire. Make an outdoor walkway or patio in a weekend with flagstone or cement pavers, no mortar needed. Or hang window boxes out front, decorated with colorful flowers. Add potted plants and outdoor seating with a bistro table and chair set. Find nooks in your yard for a bench. Put up outdoor string lights for a welcoming feel for evening relaxation. Any of these simple touches can be combined to create your own outdoor retreat.
Real Estate Term of the Week
Flagstone: A generic type of flat rock, sometimes cut in regular rectangular or square shape and usually used for paving slabs or walkways, patios, flooring, fences and roofing.