For a pro look, curtains should puddle slightly or just kiss the floor. Not brave enough to go totally open with your cabinetry? Try this project on just the set of cabinets flanking your stove or the cabinet over the coffee counter. You’re always on time and most of all you know what you’re doing.
- If your home has single-pane windows, they could be wasting up to 25% of your energy costs.
- Even newly constructed homes can see huge benefits from having an energy audit performed.
- Well, if you need a little extra motivation to take that first step, look no further than the best home improvement shows on TV.
An average quality carpeting will cost about $8- $12 per square foot, installed, says Matke. If you’re looking for a “safe” color, gray has been trending in recent years, Norris says. But it can hide some minor scratches or defects on painted surfaces. That could mean avoiding replacing dinged-up trim work or repainting entire walls. Keeping up with caulking maintenance in bathrooms and kitchens saves many water-damage repair costs later. When trying to sell, a nice coat of neutral paint can give the entire house a facelift, and buyers really love to see a fresh blank canvas.
Additional space
So needless to say, swapping it out makes a huge impact for very little money. Choose a fringe-style curtain for a boho look, go bold with large, moody florals or opt for a soft, modern ombre like designer Kerra Michele Huerta did here. We also love how she upped the drama by installing a shower curtain on each side of the tub. Hung over a patio, porch or backyard, globe cafe lights instantly turn any outdoor space into a gathering spot, increasing your usable square footage. This extra “room” comes in handy when entertaining or in the summer months when warm evenings are best spent outdoors, drink in hand. Whether it’s from a fallen branch, a pair of over-eager paws, or simple wear and tear, sooner or later most window screens will require a repair.
Garden improvements on a budget
Restock your linen closet.If you wouldn’t show your current bath towels and bed linens to your visiting mother-in-law, ditch ’em and start anew. By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
The Smart Home Tech Weve Added, Ditched, And Still Love Most
“Even just adding two chairs and a table to the patio makes it livable,” says Monaghan. “That’s another 400 square feet of living space,” which can feel like a lot in a 1,000-square-foot home. Consider installing a skylight in the kitchen, bathroom, or hallway where other natural light is limited. Skylights are best suited for homes with slanted roofs, and you’ll generally want it to face north for all-day soft lighting that won’t overheat a room. Instead, for the interior walls of your small home, opt for cool colors that give rooms an open and airy look. “It actually makes the house feel bigger,” Monaghan explains.