Easy Updates You Can Do Yourself MOST FOR UNDER $100 By: Kimberly Blaker
So you've been dreaming of updating your home, but the cost of new flooring or a kitchen remodel doesn't fit your budget? Don't despair. There are lots of ways to revitalize and update your home without breaking the bank. Check out these simple updates and fixes that'll give your home a fresh new look, inside and out. Just a few inexpensive fixes, and you'll be eager to show off your beautiful abode.
Replace your front door. This is the first thing guests see when they walk up to your home. So it's a great place to begin your updating. A higherend wooden door will add beauty to your entrance. But even a new steel door painted in an attractive color will add a lot of curbside appeal to your home.
Repair window screens. Torn window screens detract from curb appeal. Fortunately, they're inexpensive and easy to fix. Buy a package of replacement screen and a screen rolling tool to do-it-yourself. If you're not up to the task, hardware stores often do screen replacement at a reasonable cost. Just drop off your damaged screen, and they'll have it ready for you in a couple of days.
Cure dirty or crumbling grout. The wonderful thing about tile is not only its luxurious look but also its longevity. But filthy or broken down grout can spoil the look. Make your tile floor or shower look new again by freshening the grout. If it's just dirty, you can clean it. For
instructions, visit www.bobvilla.com. If the grout is broken down and needs to be replaced, find grout removal instructions at www.thespruce.com.
Update switch plates & outlet covers. This is a super-easy way to update a room, and there are so many choices for every decorating style. If you like the look of metal switch plates but don't want the expense, buy some metallic spray paint in bronze, brushed nickel, or silver. Just remove the covers, spray them, and in an hour, they'll be ready to put back on.
Replace ceiling fan blades. Do your ceiling fans look decrepit? The blades often deteriorate faster than the fixtures. So buy new blades to make your fans look new again.
Liven it up with paint. Fresh paint goes a long way toward updating and freshening a room. With hundreds of shades to choose from, there's lots of room for creativity to achieve the designer look you want. Pick up paint brochures at your hardware store for color scheme ideas, and notice how unexpected colors are paired together to create fabulous designer looks. Then play around with different colors against the color of your room's flooring and furnishings. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover an unexpected color pairing creates a beautiful new look. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 POCONO FAMILY MAGAZINE© 35