Even if you don’t have time to commit every weekend to home improvements, most of us have a wish list of projects we’d like to tackle. With summer quickly approaching, you’re probably itching to check tasks off your list.
It’s true that some home repairs and renovations carry a hefty price tag, but there are some affordable ways to spruce up your home. From painting your front door to cleaning up your back patio, you are sure to find one of these home improvements fits into your time and budget!
Paint Your Front Door
You never get a second chance at a first impression, and the same is true for your front door. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal – and make a great impression on guests and passersby. Why not get creative? A splash of color, like this yellow door, makes a bold statement while also balancing with the home’s colonial aesthetic. Consider adding a wreath or potted plants to enhance the entry way and create a cohesive and balanced look.
Plant Your Flowerpots and Window Boxes
It doesn’t matter if you have a vibrant garden or a few window boxes, adding some greenery adds curb appeal. You can find a variety of plants and flowers at your local hardware, grocery or garden supply store that are suited for your community’s weather. If you have limited yard space, consider using window boxes instead. Flower boxes can be relatively inexpensive, but often harder to maintain, so choose what’s best for you and your summer schedule!
Add Shelving and Organize your Mudroom
Whether your mudroom is large or small, ample storage is always a plus. Take advantage of unclaimed walls or corner spaces with open shelves to keep hats, towels and backpacks all within reach. Embellish shelves with decorative hooks and hardware that tie into the metal accents found in your home. If your mudroom is a high traffic area, you might also consider adding a small rug or runner by the doorway.
Get the Grill and Patio Ready
There are few things that say “summer ready” quite like a backyard BBQ. Give your backyard a fresh makeover with some new outdoor cushions, colorful melamine plates, an outdoor area rug and white string lights. Before you host your first backyard bash: make sure the grill is clean and ready to go. Check your burners, and gas connection, or propane tank, to make sure everything is still in working order. It might take a couple of hours to get your grill fully functional, but it makes all the difference in hosting your BBQ.
Clean the Windows
What’s the point of beautiful natural light if you can’t see through your windows? To make them sparkle again, experts recommend a gentle cleaning agent – sometimes just a few squirts of dishwashing liquid in warm water. The less suds, the better. After an initial scrub inside and out, use a squeegee to avoid any lingering streaks.
