Budget-Friendly Tips for Remodeling a Kitchen
Buying a fixer-upper is an ideal way to make your budget stretch further, and the repairs that you complete will translate into higher property values when you're finished. Getting from here to there is a lot of work and anywhere you can save a few dollars is important. With that in mind, we've put together a couple of great tips for redecorating your kitchen on a budget. Change the lighting Switch out the hardware Replace the faucet Update the counters One option is to cover your counters with a butchers block. If you look around, you can even find butchers block wood that is cut specifically to the size of your counters. Simply rest the block on top and voila! Beautiful wood counters. Remember to invest in mineral oil for proper maintenance. The other option is to paint your counters. This is a little trickier than painting a wall, but easier than you might think. “The Kitchn” has a great step-by-step guide to help you through the process. Once you're finished, take a look around. We're betting that you won't even recognize the kitchen that was there when you moved in!
One of the most common problems with older kitchens is harsh or insufficient lighting. Luckily, this is also one of the easiest problems to solve! While it may seem like a daunting task to switch out a hanging light fixture, there are plenty of online guides that will take you through the process. Many homeowners are surprised to find that it's easy to do. Light fixtures can be very affordable. Most local home improvement stores carry a nice selection of modern fixtures in inexpensive to moderate price ranges, so chances are good that you'll find something you love!
Another quick fix that will have your kitchen looking great is a hardware upgrade. We're talking about the hinges, handles and knobs on the faces of your cabinets. For $15 to $30, you can buy all new hardware and install it yourself in an afternoon! Brushed copper or brass is very popular right now, but the most important thing is that you pick something that complements the color of your cabinetry and works with the style of your kitchen.
With a wrench and some silicone caulk, you can have your new faucet installed and running in half an hour! High-arching, single-handle faucets are most popular, as these styles have technical advantages over their flat, double-handle counterparts. High-arching faucets give you more room to maneuver dishes and pots, and single-handle faucets allow more control over water temperature. These are a little more expensive, but a great faucet should cost you around $150 - a small price to pay for serious utility. Bonus points if you pick out a faucet that is functional and unique.
Unfortunately, replacing your counters is a big job that requires a real investment. If you've just moved in, and are strapped for cash, you may wish to wait until your finances are a little bit more stable. In the meantime, you can still have good looking counters with a little bit of ingenuity.
