Paint the Front Door

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into our first project. Painting your front door is a quick way to boost your home’s curb appeal.

• Pick a bold color like the Monteiths’ red door for a big impact.
• You can finish this project in a weekend or less.
• Take a color quiz to find the perfect shade for your home.
• Gather your tools: paint, brushes, rollers, tape, and drop cloths.
• Clean the door well before you start painting.
• Use painter’s tape to protect any hardware or windows.
• Apply two coats of paint for the best look.
• Let each coat dry fully before adding the next one.
• Add new handles for extra flair. It only costs about $20.
• This small change can make your whole house look better.
• A new steel door costs $2,355 but gives a 188% return on investment.
• Your painted door will make a great first impression on guests.

Install a Shiplap Accent Wall

Shiplap accent walls are a hot trend in home design. You can add this stylish touch to your home for about $100 or less.

• Pick a wall to make your accent wall. Living rooms or bedrooms work well.
• Buy 8′ x 4′ x 5/8″ plywood sheets. They’re cheap and easy to work with.
• Get the tools you need: stud finder, nail gun, and caulking gun.
• Prep your wall by removing outlet covers and filling holes.
• Cut the plywood into strips. Make them look like real shiplap boards.
• Find the studs in your wall with the stud finder.
• Nail the boards to the wall, starting at the bottom.
• Leave small gaps between boards for a real shiplap look.
• Caulk the seams and gaps to make it look smooth.
• Paint the wall in your chosen color.
• Put back the outlet covers.

This project can be done in a weekend. It’s a fun way to change up your space. Next, let’s look at how to set up outdoor string lights.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctpcyfqLC10

Set Up Outdoor String Lights

Outdoor string lights can make your yard look magical. Let’s explore how to set them up in a fun weekend project.

• Grab no-dig ground anchors. Push them 24 inches into the soil.
• Get 10.5-foot chain link fence top rails for poles.
• Space anchors 13 to 20 feet apart. This keeps lights steady.
• Hang lights between poles. Create a cozy feel in your yard.
• Finish the job in just one weekend. It’s a quick and easy task.
• Use lights for parties or quiet nights. They add charm to any event.
• Enjoy more time outside. Lights make your yard usable after dark.
• Pick weather-proof lights. They’ll last longer outdoors.
• Add switches or timers. Turn lights on and off with ease.
• Mix different bulb sizes. This creates a unique look in your space.

Update Kitchen Storage Solutions

Let’s jazz up your kitchen storage! Floating shelves are great for keeping your everyday stuff close by. You can put your plates, cups, and spices on them. It’s easy to grab what you need when cooking.

For water bottles, try using magazine files. They keep bottles standing up and save space in your cabinets.

Want a neat pantry? Use clear boxes and label them. Put snacks in one, baking stuff in another. This makes finding things a breeze. For more space, add hooks inside cabinet doors. Hang measuring cups or pot lids there.

You can also put up a pegboard on a wall. Hang pots, pans, and utensils on it. Your kitchen will look tidy and you’ll have more room to work.

Embellish the Home Entrance

Your home’s entrance sets the tone for your whole house. Make it pop with some easy fixes! Try adding colorful wallpaper like the Monteiths did. A campaign-style console table can also spruce things up.

Don’t forget about your front door – a fresh coat of paint works wonders. It’s a quick weekend project that makes a big impact.

Want to add more charm? Install a shiplap accent wall. It gives your entrance lots of character. For about $50, you can add some millwork too. These small changes make a big difference in how your home looks when people first walk in.

Your entrance will go from boring to wow in no time!

Restore Shine to Wood Floors

Wood floors can lose their shine over time. Here’s how to bring back that lovely luster without spending a fortune:

• Sweep daily to remove dirt and dust. This stops scratches before they start.
• Mix a natural cleaner with vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and essential oils. It’s safe and smells great.
• Use a washable microfiber mop for quick clean-ups. It grabs more dirt than regular mops.
• Fix small scratches with a walnut. Just rub it on the spot and watch the magic happen.
• Polish your floors once a year, or more in busy areas. This keeps them looking fresh.
• Skip store-bought cleaners. They often leave a film that dulls your floors.
• Clean spills right away to avoid stains. A damp cloth works well for most messes.
• Put felt pads under furniture legs. This stops scratches when you move things around.
• Use rugs in high-traffic spots. They catch dirt before it gets on your floors.
• Trim pet nails often. Long claws can scratch up your beautiful wood.

Give the Fireplace a Facelift

After restoring your wood floors, it’s time to turn your attention to the fireplace. A fireplace facelift can change the whole look of your room. Here are some ways to give your fireplace a fresh new look:

• Paint the fireplace brick or stone. Use stain-blocking primer and high-gloss paint for a total cost of about $50.
• Try the German schmear technique. This method adds a rustic, old-world charm to your fireplace.
• Apply a concrete skim coat. This can give your fireplace a sleek, modern look.
• Update the mantel. Choose a style that fits your home’s decor, like traditional, modern, or farmhouse.
• Make a DIY fireplace screen. This is a budget-friendly way to add style and safety.
• Paint the inside of the fireplace. A pop of color here can make a big impact.
• Add tile around the fireplace. This can create a focal point in your room.
• Install a new surround. This can completely change the look of your fireplace.
• Hang artwork above the mantel. This draws the eye up and adds visual interest.
• Place plants or candles on the mantel. These simple touches can soften the look of the fireplace.

Create a Gallery Wall

After sprucing up your fireplace, it’s time to add some flair to your walls. A gallery wall is a fun way to show off your style and memories.

• Pick a mix of art pieces you love. Photos, paintings, and cool objects all work great.
• Lay out your items on the floor first. This helps you see how they’ll look on the wall.
• Use different frame styles and colors. It makes your wall look more interesting.
• Measure and mark where each piece will go. Use a pencil to make light marks on the wall.
• Hang the biggest piece first. It will be the center of your gallery.
• Add smaller items around the big one. Space them out evenly.
• Use a level to make sure everything is straight. Crooked frames can look messy.
• Mix in some non-art items. Mirrors, clocks, or small shelves add variety.
• Keep adding until you’re happy. You can always change things later.
• Step back often to see how it looks. Sometimes you need to move things around.

Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a great way to cool your home and save money. Let’s look at how to install one in about two hours.

• Pick a fan that fits your room size. Measure the room first.
• Get the right tools. You’ll need a ladder, wire cutters, circuit tester, wrench, and pliers.
• Buy a fan-rated ceiling box. It needs to hold the fan’s weight.
• Turn off the power. Use a circuit tester to check.
• Take out the old light fixture. Be careful with the wires.
• Put in the new ceiling box. Make sure it’s secure.
• Hang the fan bracket. Follow the manual closely.
• Connect the wires. Match colors and use wire nuts.
• Attach the fan blades. Tighten all screws well.
• Test the fan. Turn on the power and try all speeds.

Upgrade Bathroom Fixtures

After sprucing up your living spaces with new ceiling fans, it’s time to focus on the bathroom. Upgrading your bathroom fixtures can give your space a fresh look and better function. Here’s how to do it:

• Pick new faucets and showerheads to make your bathroom look and work better.
• Look for cool features like lights or music in your new fixtures.
• You can get a fancy showerhead for about $50.
• Ask a pro for help with tricky parts of the job.
• Plan to spend a weekend on this project.
• New fixtures can make your whole bathroom look nicer.
• Choose fixtures that match your style and needs.
• Think about how easy the fixtures are to clean and use.
• Don’t forget to check if your new fixtures fit your current plumbing.
• Save water with low-flow options that still work well.
• Pick finishes that go with your bathroom’s look.
• Make sure you have the right tools before you start.
• Turn off the water before you start working.
• Follow the maker’s guide when you put in new fixtures.
• Test for leaks after you finish to avoid water damage.

Refresh Kitchen Cabinets with Paint or Stain

Moving from bathroom fixtures to kitchen cabinets, let’s spruce up another key area of your home. Refreshing your kitchen cabinets with paint or stain can give your space a whole new look without breaking the bank.

• Clean cabinets with a magic eraser and dish soap for a fresh start.
• Lightly sand the surfaces to help paint stick better.
• Choose paint or stain that fits your style and kitchen color scheme.
• Remove old hardware or clean it up for a new look.
• Paint or stain the entire door fronts instead of just touching up worn spots.
• This project costs less than $50 for paint and supplies.
• You can finish this makeover in one afternoon.
• New paint or stain can make old cabinets look brand new.
• Updating cabinet hardware adds extra flair to your refresh.
• This easy DIY project gives your kitchen a big impact for little cost.

Add a DIY Backsplash in the Kitchen

After refreshing your cabinets, it’s time to tackle the backsplash. Adding a DIY backsplash can transform your kitchen’s look without breaking the bank. Here’s how to do it:

• Measure your kitchen wall space to figure out how much tile you need. Buy extra tiles for mistakes.
• Gather your tools: tile wet saw, grout float, and laser level. You’ll also need tile, thin-set mortar, grout, and spacers.
• Clean the wall and mark your starting point with a laser level.
• Mix the thin-set mortar and spread it on the wall with a notched trowel.
• Place tiles on the wall, using spacers to keep them even.
• Let the mortar dry for 24 hours before grouting.
• Mix the grout and spread it over the tiles with a grout float.
• Wipe off extra grout with a damp sponge.
• Let the grout dry, then seal it if needed.
• Caulk any gaps between the tiles and countertop.
• Stand back and enjoy your new kitchen look!

Install a New Front Door

A new front door can make your home look better and worth more money. Let’s look at how to put in a new front door yourself.

• Get the right size door. Measure your old door carefully.
• Pick a door material. Wood, fiberglass, and steel are common choices.
• Buy tools you’ll need. You’ll want a drill, screwdriver, and level.
• Take off the old door. Remove hinges and the door frame.
• Put in the new door frame. Make sure it’s level and square.
• Hang the new door on its hinges. Check that it opens and closes smoothly.
• Add weather stripping. This keeps out cold air and rain.
• Install a door sweep at the bottom. It stops drafts from coming in.
• Paint or stain the door if needed. This protects it and makes it look nice.
• Put on new hardware like knobs and locks. Make sure they work well.
• Test the door several times. It should open, close, and lock easily.
• Clean up your work area. Sweep up any sawdust or debris.

Enhance Home Lighting

Good lighting can make your home look better and help you get more done. You can make your rooms brighter without spending a lot of money. Try putting mirrors across from windows to bounce more sunlight around.

This trick can cut down on the need for extra lights. Swap out big chandeliers for hanging lights to give your space a fancy look for less cash. New light fixtures can cost about $50, which is a great deal for a big change.

You can do more with your lights to make your home comfy. Add dimmers to control how bright your rooms are. This lets you set the right mood for different times of day or activities.

Special light bulbs can also change how your living spaces feel and look. With these easy fixes, you can make your home shine without breaking the bank.

Update the Exterior with New Paint

A fresh coat of paint can make your house look brand new. It’s a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal and protect it from the weather.

• Paint your house in spring or early summer. The weather is best then.
• Expect to spend about $1,000 for a full paint job. It’s worth it for the protection and new look.
• Choose high-quality exterior paint. Satin or semi-gloss finishes last longer.
• Clean your house before painting. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime.
• Fix any cracks or holes in the walls. Sand rough spots to make them smooth.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors. This keeps water out and saves energy.
• Hire a pro for big or tall houses. They have the right tools and know-how to do it safely.
• Pick colors that fit your neighborhood. Light colors make your house look bigger.
• Paint on a dry day with no wind. This helps the paint dry evenly.
• Start at the top and work your way down. This prevents drips on fresh paint.

Next, let’s look at how to make your deck or patio look amazing.

Revamp Your Deck or Patio

After sprucing up your home’s exterior with fresh paint, it’s time to focus on your outdoor living space. Let’s explore how to revamp your deck or patio for a stunning backyard makeover.

• Replace old wood with PVC or composite materials for a durable, low-maintenance deck
• Create multi-zone spaces for dining, lounging, and entertaining
• Add integrated deck lighting for ambiance and safety
• Update railings with open styles to improve views while meeting safety rules
• Check and fix decks over ten years old to keep them safe and strong
• Use new deck materials like PVC or composite for less upkeep
• Set up different areas on your deck for eating, relaxing, and hanging out
• Put in built-in lights to make your deck look nice and be safer at night
• Change old railings to new ones that let you see more but still keep you safe
• Look at decks older than ten years and fix any problems to avoid accidents
• Budget about $500 for supplies to give your deck a fresh look