Renovating your home can be an exciting process, but the costs can really add up quickly. Don’t worry though – there are plenty of ways to give your living spaces a refreshed overhaul without breaking the bank. This article provides 8 budget-friendly tips to help you save money on your next home improvement project. From simple lighting tips to professional residential roofs and gutter installation, you’ll soon get your home looking the best it can before the summer kicks in.
Tip 1: Do it yourself when possible
One of the biggest expenses for any renovation is labor costs for hiring contractors. You can save a bundle by doing some of the work yourself for projects that are relatively straightforward like painting, tiling, demolition, and more. Recruit some handy friends or family members to help out as well. Just be realistic about your skill level and don’t take on tasks that are beyond your abilities.
Tip 2: Look for discounts and reuse materials
Check for discounts and promotions at your local hardware or home improvement stores. You can also find great deals on recycled materials at reuse stores, architectural salvage shops, or Habitat for Humanity ReStores. Things like tiles, wood, fixtures, and more can often be repurposed for a fraction of the price of new.
Tip 3: Start small and prioritize
Instead of trying to do a whole home overhaul at once, break it into smaller phases to make it more affordable. Prioritize the most important renovations first, like replacing an old roof before remodeling a bathroom. This allows you to save up money between each phase as well.
Tip 4: Consider professional residential roofs and gutter installation
This should definitely be a priority home renovation to protect your house from the elements. A new residential roof installation can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more depending on the size and materials used. Hire a professional roofing contractor to ensure proper installation and look into gutter replacement at the same time for an integrated system. While you’re at it, consider replacing old gutters at the same time since they work together to divert water away from your home’s foundation. Gutters that are cracked, sagging or pulling away from the roof can lead to water damage, basement leaks and foundation issues over time. Scheduling the roof and gutter installation projects together can save on labor costs.
Tip 5: Choose affordable finishes
You don’t have to splurge on high-end finishes to get a fresh, modern look. More affordable options like laminate countertops, vinyl flooring, or engineered wood can look just as nice as their expensive counterparts. Try mixing affordable finishes with a few splurge items like quartz countertops just in the kitchen.
Tip 6: Enhance lighting
Lighting is an easy and cost-effective way to completely transform the look and feel of a space. Something as simple as a new lamp, light fixture, or under-cabinet lighting can brighten up a room. Plus, this is usually a manageable DIY project.
Tip 7: Add architectural details
You can elevate a room’s aesthetic by adding some architectural details like moldings, wainscoting, or built-in shelving. These features are relatively inexpensive but make a big impact. Check salvage stores for affordable trim and molding options.
Tip 8: Landscape for curb appeal
Don’t forget about the exterior of your home! Landscaping is a cost-effective way to boost your home’s curb appeal. Plant some perennial flowers, trim shrubs and trees, add fresh mulch or gravel. This is also a project you can tackle gradually over time as your budget allows.
With a little creativity and some smart planning, you can give your home a major facelift without going over budget. Take it one step at a time, look for opportunities to DIY, and implement these budget-friendly tips for amazing results!
