Now that the kids are back in school and the routine seems to be in full swing, you may want to take a few moments to rest. After a few deep breaths, you might start to get antsy. What will you do?
If you feel like upgrading your home, we've compiled a list of DIY home improvement projects that
won't break the bank!
1. Add an accent wall
Using a fresh coat of paint, you can spice up any room in the house. Feel free to experiment with different colours and patterns--you can add dots or stripes to a wall for a unique look, or even an accent window frame. Of course, if you don't want to paint an entire room, you can always paint an accent wall for flavour. And don't forget your doors! You can paint those, too--especially if they're covered in scuff marks and other minor damage.
Total cost for quart of paint: $18.952. Change window treatmentsEnhance your interior design by choosing new fabrics for your bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. You can find matching patterns of drapes and window coverings, or you can give each room its own feel. Mix and match designs to really give your home life this season!
Total cost for new window shade: $9.38
Total cost for new window panels: $5.00
3. Install a message centerThis type of home improvement project can help your family organize and collaborate on tasks. You have options and room for creativity, so feel free to make this DIY project your own.
- Install a dry-erase message board on any wall in a common area in your home--the kitchen is usually the best spot. You can also use a magnetic or cork desk board.
- Use chalkboard paint to create an instant chalkboard message center anywhere in your house or apartment. You can paint the cabinets like this as well, but this is more of a commitment.
- If you're really feeling creative, you can purchase a glass panel and paint the back of it to match your kitchen's color scheme. Use the front of the panel as a DIY dry-erase board!
Total cost for a magnetic dry-erase/cork board: $12.99
Total cost for spray-on chalkboard paint: $3.74
4. Upgrade door handles and knobsPolish the look of your interior with new knobs on your doors. Or, you can go the more inexpensive route by spray-painting old knobs and handles to make them look newer. Either way, it will freshen up the look of your cabinets and doors.
Total cost for new doorknob: $10.50
Total cost for 10 decorative cabinet handles: $11.15
5. Add hooks and shelving for storageYou can add hooks to basically any room in the house for extra storage. For example, you can hang towels and robes in the bathroom or hang sweatshirts and jackets in the bedroom or closet. Shelves can provide extra storage space in the bedroom, office or bathroom, helping you organize your belongings and supplies. Take this opportunity to organize and label your items in a way you see fit.
Total cost of 6 medium-sized hooks: $7.07
Total cost of 3 floating shelves: $19.95
Total cost of plastic storage bin w/ 12 drawers: $17.99
6. Replace wall outlet coversElectrical plate covers and wall outlets are in every room of your house or apartment. So, find any that are cracked or stained and replace them. You have plenty of affordable options, so feel free to choose a theme for the entire place or make each room unique.
Total cost of electrical plate cover: $1.18
7. Upgrade house numbers and doorbellIf you want to make a good first impression on guests, you can replace your outdoor house numbers and decals. Use a durable wood or metal for new numbers, or apply a new coat of paint to your old ones. When it comes to doorbells, you can easily install a new one for a modern feel.
Total cost of a single house number: $6.00
Total cost of a new doorbell: $7.00
8. Make a gardenDecorate an area outside your home with potted plants and flowers, and maybe even some hanging ones. This DIY home improvement project will actually bear results, providing all sorts of benefits in the future. Not only will you have fruits and/or vegetables to cook and eat--you'll have a new hobby!
Total cost of gardening tool set: $15.00
More wonderful tips can be found on Time.com.