The Update

Which Home Improvement Projects Can I Do Myself?

I’d love to fix up my home this year, but I can’t afford to a full-blown renovation. What home improvement projects I can tackle myself?

With a bit of creativity, the right tools, instructions and the willingness to roll up your sleeves for getting to work, you can spruce up your living space without spending big.

Here are nine home improvement ideas you can do on your own.

Paint Your Walls and Cabinets 

Whether you want to brighten a room with a new coat of paint or give your kitchen cabinets a modern makeover, painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to freshen up your home’s interior.

Install a Backsplash

Instantly enhance the look of your kitchen or bathroom by installing a stylish backsplash. Choose from a wide variety of materials, from ceramic to peel-and-stick or reclaimed wood, and easily create a custom look that suits your taste and budget. You can look up simple-to-follow tutorials online for step-by-step instructions on measuring, cutting and installing your tiles.

Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware

Give your kitchen or bathroom a quick facelift by swapping out outdated cabinet hardware for new knobs, handles or pulls. Choose hardware that complements your existing decor style and consider mixing and matching different designs for added visual interest.

Installing Floating Shelves 

Floating shelves are super-practical for storage and can also serve as decorative elements that can showcase your favorite books, photos or knick-knacks. Customize the size and design of the shelves to fit your space and style preferences.

Add Wainscoting or a Beadboard to Your Walls

Decorative wall treatments can add texture, depth and character to any room. Whether you prefer classic raised-panel wainscoting or simple beadboard, there are DIY-friendly kits available to make installation a breeze. Dedicate a weekend to the project, work carefully and you can get professional results!

Upgrade a Light Fixture in a Central Location

Light fixtures can set the tone of a room. Swap an outdated light fixture in a central location of your home, such as the kitchen, entrance-way or living room, for an updated fixture to instantly give the entire room an upgrade.

Revamp Outdoor Spaces

Extend your living space outdoors by sprucing up your patio, deck or garden area. DIY projects such as building a raised garden bed, installing outdoor lighting or creating a fire pit can enhance the functionality and esthetics of these outdoor spaces.

Install a Shiplap Accent Wall

If you love the look of old shiplap walls but live in a modern-style home, this tip is for you. You can have your wall for $50 or less by trimming plywood into planks and nailing the boards to your wall. Paint or stain the panels in your chosen color and you’ve got your shiplap wall!

Get New Window Treatments

Upgrading your window treatments is an easy way to freshen your living space at a relatively low price. Choose an area in your home with highly visible windows or go for the one with the drabbest curtains or window blinds. Switch them for something fresh and new. Watch how this small upgrade transforms the entire room!

With the right tools and the willingness to dedicate some time to getting the job done, you can upgrade your living space without breaking the bank. Use our tips to get started!