Ask any home owner or renter and they'll say their kitchen needs an upgrade. Whether it's the leaky dish washer, the plain cabinets or the drab curtains, something certainly could use an update. But remodeling your kitchen can be difficult, especially if you've got a busy home that can't afford not to use the kitchen for a week due to installations. Additionally, kitchen remodeling can be a headache, especially when the estimated cost seems to add up all too quickly. But there are ways to update your quaint, tired-looking kitchen, all while saving you money you thought you'd have to spend. Follow these tips and you see a difference in your home and in your wallet.
Tip #1: Budget Wisely
Of course, we'd all like to remodel our kitchen without spending any money. The reality of the matter is, depending on what or how much you'd like to replace, there will be a cost associated with it. However, some projects are noticeably more expensive than others, so plan accordingly. For instance, replacing all counter tops, flooring and appliances can certainly put a dent into any savings or wallet. If you can't afford a total kitchen replacement, consider changing elements of each project (such as refurbishing appliances and cabinetry, instead of buying new).
Tip #2: Plan Your Mission
With your budget limit in mind, envision what features of your kitchen you'd like to change. You may want to consider creating a mock blueprint. What you've imagined in your head may seem frivolous or impossible on paper. By planning ahead of time, you'll eliminate the chances of over-buying the tools you need to remodel, consider what appliances and features can be kept, as well as work out the dimensions if you plan to rearrange furniture.
Tip #3: Shop in Unusual Places
There are many valuable but often hidden places that homeowners simply skip over when they consider remodeling. Check out your local paper or neighborhood for auctions, flea markets, garage and estate sales and thrift stores. These places are chock-full of steals you wouldn't find a most furniture stores and outlets. Also, since suppliers to these stores come from a variety of sources, their inventory is much more eclectic. If you've always been searching for a unique painting, accessory or cabinet, you may just be able to find exactly what you were looking for!
Tip #4: Give it a Facelift
Typical kitchen designs should be updated every 5 or 7 years. Chances are, your home has not kept up with that remodeling schedule. Most likely, the cabinetry, splash guard and appliance places will need some updating. Replacing even just your cabinet door knobs and locksets with oil rubbed bronze cabinet hardware can easily add a decorative accent to your otherwise dull cabinetry. Darker finishes such as Swedish iron, matte black, weathered nickel and oil rubbed bronze cabinet pulls are easy to install and are perfect for muted cabinetry.
Tip #5: Refinish the Floor
Many times, a kitchen needs just a simple accent piece. Why not refinish the floor? Home designers typically evaluate the floor last, but it might be your best option. Many newer floor designs offer the convenience of "sticky" floors that can be applied on top of your existing flooring (if the flooring is smooth and clean).
Tip #6: Add Light
Believe it or not, one of the easiest ways to instantly transform a kitchen is to add light. Replacing your light fixtures with a brighter bulb may give your existing cabinets extra shine. Or, if your kitchen has windows, consider tying back the curtains to add in natural light. Consider trading in darker curtains for sheer or lace curtains or valiances. Sunshine will not only keep your kitchen warm during daylight hours, but also, it will illuminate what you've already got without having to spend any money.
Jim Richardson is Vice President of Your Home Supply (YHS), the definitive website for home improvement tools, and gardening supplies. Your Home Supply offers a wide range of oil rubbed bronze cabinet hardware to help customers with common household repairs, as well as decorative accessories for the home. Visit them now at http://www.YourHomeSupply.com
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