30 Quick and Easy DIY Home Improvement Ideas on a Budget

Home improvements don't have to be expensive. Here are 30 quick and easy DIY Home Improvement Ideas you can tackle yourself, even on a tight budget.

Easy Home Improvements

1. Install New Cabinet Hardware

Installing new cabinet hardware is a quick and easy way to breathe new life into your kitchen. Those new knobs and handles can transform your space from an outdated look to a modern space at an affordable price.

2. Replace Your Crown Molding

Crown molding is one of those things we don't really think about, but it can make a big difference to the look and feel of your rooms. Best of all it's an affordable home improvement upgrade you can do yourself on a tight budget. When replacing crown molding, use a coping saw to create a tight and seamless joint where two pieces of molding meet at an inside corner. This will give you a professional looking finish and help hide any gaps or imperfections.

3. Install A Ceiling Fan As A Centerpiece

A ceiling fan can improve both the look of a room and the quality of air and it won't break the bank. There are a range of available options to suit any style. Ceiling fans provide a cooling breeze during thee warm weather, and can also help to circulate warm air during colder months, making your living space more comfortable. This one is an ideal way to remodel your bedroom for a new fresh look as well as improve the overall air quality in your home.

4. Spruce Up A Room With Floating Shelves

Floating shelves not only look great, they'll help you maximize your storage space, especially in small rooms. They can add a modern and sleek look to any room and come in a variety of materials and finishes. Best of all they aren't a major expense, making them a great DIY home improvement option.

5. Replace Your Lighting Fixtures

All you need is a screwdriver, a drill and some wire strippers to install New lighting fixtures and they can really brighten up a space. It's a great affordable home improvement job for a small budget.

Simple Do-It-Yourself Projects For Home

6. Add A Backsplash in The Kitchen

You don't need to be an expert in DIY to install a stick on backsplash in the kitchen and you won't have to splash out the cash either. This is a DIY home improvement project any homeowner can tackle successfully. Adding a backsplash in the kitchen is a great way to add style and protection to your kitchen walls.

7. Refinish Kitchen Cabinets

Why not revive those tired old kitchen cabinets with a stain or new coat of paint. You don't need complicated skills for this job — just a sander, paint brush and your stain or paint. When creating a home renovation budget for this task you should easily be able to keep it under $200 or $300.

8. Install A New Toilet

You can find deals on new toilets at the local hardware store just about any time. They're relatively easy to install with just a few basic tools and they can help give your bathroom a clean new look at a cost-effective price point. If you go for a water saving toilet, you'll help reduce water usage in your home, effectively reducing the water bill over time.

10. New Stain on Patio or Fence

Outdoor home improvements are also a great way to improve your home on a budget. Staining a fence or a patio deck are great examples. They can make the wood look more appealing and add to the overall look and feel of your yard without having to worry about an expensive replacement deck or fence.

Fixing Your House On Little Money

11. Replace Outdoor Lighting or Mailbox

Another great outdoor project is to replace outdated lighting fixtures or even your mailbox if it’s looking a little run down. Installing outdoor lighting fixtures can help improve the safety and secuirty of your home, as well as enhance its aesthetic appeal. When performing any electrical tasks, just remember to make sure power is turned off at the source before getting started.

12. Add Garden Beds and Flower Boxes

Keeping with the outdoor theme, you may want to look at sprucing up your garden beds or adding a new coat of paint to your flower boxes. One way to make a garden bed look nice is to add a layer of mulch. This project is inexpensive and you don’t have to have any experience in home improvements to take it on.

13. Add in A Window Seat

If you’re lucky enough to have a bay window in your home it can easily be transformed into a window seat for a nice comfy space to relax in. All you need is a few pieces of lumber from the local hardware store and some basic carpentry skills which you can easily pick up from watching a few online videos.

Most Common Home Repairs

14. Replace Interior Doors The paint on interior doors tends to peel over time and the doors themselves can be worn. Replacing these worn out doors is relatively easy and the hardware won’t cost more than a few hundred dollars. If you’d prefer to keep the budget a little more affordable a new coat of paint should do the trick in most cases.

15. New Blinds or Curtains

One of the most inexpensive ways to transform any room is to add new curtains or blinds. They’re widely available to suit any taste and easy to install. As straightforward as this type of DIY home improvement project may be, they can make a big difference in your home. Consider the style and design of the curtains and how they will complement the overall decor of the room.

16. Create A Gallery Wall

If you’ve ever visited the home of a friend or family member and been blown away by an impressive mini art gallery or a set of photos in a distinct pattern, then you already have a good idea of where we’re going with this idea.

Adding a gallery wall like this is a quick and simple project that you can do in less than an hour and you may already have the pieces you need — you just need to display them. In this case, presentation is everything!

17. Install A New Bathroom Faucet

Tackling a DIY plumbing project may seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Replacing that rusty faucet with a new modern look is a basic task and one you can easily fit in most budgets.

If you set aside a couple of hours for this project you should have no problem getting it done and giving your bathroom a whole new look in the process.

18. Build A Backyard Fire Pit

If you have some extra bricks behind your shed you may already have what you need to build an impressive fire pit in your backyard. Even if you do have to purchase some along with some basic masonry tools and supplies you should still be able to build your new fire pit on a tight budget. Remember to choose a safe location for the pit and to keep it away from flammable materials, such as dry grass or overhanging branches.

19. Install A New Shower Head

Another plumbing task that’s easy to perform is replacing your shower head. After years of use they can become plugged with calcium deposits. Replacing your old one is easy and you can add a fancy handheld shower head with multiple pressure settings for well under $100.

20. Build Patio Benches

Have some old skids laying around? You can use them to build patio benches and the only thing you’ll need is some basic carpentry supplies, a circular saw and a nice stain for the finished product. A patio bench can be used for a variety of activities, such as dining, lounging, entertaining or even as storage. Installing hinges on the seat with an enclosed base will allow you to store items, like cushions and extra blankets.

21. Create A Mudroom With Hooks and Storage

Add a few hooks to the walls in your entryway and a simple bench with built-in storage and you’ll have a new family mudroom that not only serves a useful purpose, it looks great as well. Hooks and storage in your mudroom means you'll be keeping your home organized and clutter-free.

22. Turn Your Home Into A Smart Home

Turning your home into a smart home is easier than you think. The smart assistant is probably already in your phone. Purchase some smart light bulbs, plugs and perhaps a smart thermostat and you can easily turn your home into a futuristic space and it’s surprisingly inexpensive to do.

23. Create A Reading Nook in A Spare Room

If you have an unused spare room it doesn’t have to be a wasted space. Add a fresh coat of paint, purchase some inexpensive bookshelves and add a comfy chair and you have yourself a nice cozy reading nook on a budget. Creating a cozy reading nook can be a wonderful addition to your home, providing a quiet and comfortable space to read, relax, or unwind.

24. Add Cabinets and Storage in The Garage

The garage can be a really useful space, especially if you add some cabinets, storage shelving and benches. You can purchase these at a reasonable price or save money and build them yourself if you’re handy. The end result will be a great looking garage.

25. Add A Breakfast Bar Using Existing Half Wall

If you have a kitchen with a half wall with a view to the living room that area can be easily turned into a nice breakfast bar with some basic lumber and a bit of elbow grease. Add a stain or a coat of paint and find yourself a couple of inexpensive stools and you have a nice family breakfast bar for your morning cup of coffee.

26. Create Your Own Home Gym

That unused basement or attic doesn’t need to be an empty space for dust and cobwebs. At minimal cost it can be turned into your own home gym.

The biggest purchase is of course the fitness equipment, but there are affordable versions of everything if you look in the right places. You might also want to look online for second hand deals.

27. Add Privacy Trees to Chain Link Fence

Instead of replacing that chain link fence with an expensive wooden one for privacy you can add privacy trees. Adding privacy trees can be a great way to enhance the privacy of your property, create a natural barrier, and add beauty to your landscape.

28. Upgrade Your Balcony or Porch

Add a few carefully placed flower pots and perhaps an inexpensive bistro table and chairs and you can turn a balcony or porch into an inviting space to start your day.

29. Create A Cozy Home Office

Another great option for an unused spare room is to turn it into a home office. You may already have the furniture you need, but even if you have to purchase a desk and office chair it doesn’t need to cost more than a couple of hundred dollars.

30. Paint Your Living Room

It’s amazing what a quick coat of paint can do to spruce up a room and it’s one of the most inexpensive DIY home improvement projects you can take on. All you need is a can of paint, a paint roller, paint brushes, painters tape and some primer.

Remember, when it comes to DIY home improvement projects, always prioritize safety, and know your limitations. If a project requires skills or equipment you don't have, it's best to hire a professional.

10 Fantastic Front Porch Decor Ideas You can Nail Down on a Budget

If you're looking to give your home's front porch a little facelift without breaking the bank, there are plenty of budget-friendly front porch decor ideas to choose from. From adding a splash of color to your front door to incorporating potted plants and unique accessories, these front porch decor ideas will transform your porch into a welcoming oasis that's sure to impress your guests.

10 Simple and Budget Friendly Front Porch Decor Ideas

1. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the easiest ways to update your front porch decor is by adding a fresh coat of paint to your front door. A bold, bright color like red or yellow can add a pop of personality to your porch and make your home stand out from the rest. Don't be afraid to get creative with your color choice – just make sure it complements your home's existing color scheme.

2. Incorporate Potted Plants

Plants are a great way to add some natural beauty to your front porch decor. Whether you choose tall, leafy ferns or colorful flowers, potted plants can help create a welcoming atmosphere that's both calming and inviting. Place them on either side of your front door or along the edges of your porch for maximum impact.

3. Hang a Wreath or Two

A wreath is a classic front porch decor item that can instantly add a touch of charm to your home's exterior. Whether you choose a traditional greenery wreath or something more modern and unique, hanging a wreath on your front door is an easy way to spruce up your porch without spending a lot of money.

4. Use Outdoor Rugs

Outdoor rugs are a great way to add some texture and warmth to your front porch decor. Choose a rug that complements your home's color scheme and style, and place it in front of your front door or along the edges of your porch to create a cozy seating area.

5. Hang Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting can help create a warm and inviting atmosphere on your front porch, especially in the evenings. Hang string lights or lanterns along the edges of your porch or around your front door to add some ambiance and charm.

6. Use Unique Accessories

From vintage signs to quirky doormats, incorporating unique accessories into your front porch decor can help make your home stand out from the rest. Some hanging plants are great when thinking of front porch ideas to make your standout from your neighbors. Haning plants will brighten up your space and show off your green thumb. Look for items that reflect your personality and style, and don't be afraid to mix and match different textures and colors.

7. Add Window Boxes

Window boxes add charm to your home's exterior, create a cohesive look, and offer a space for growing plants in limited space. They also provide a way to bring color and natural beauty to your home. Choose a style that complements your home's architecture and color scheme.

8. Decorate Two Doors on Your Front Porch

If you have two doors on your front porch, consider decorating both of them to create a cohesive look. Use similar decor items on both doors, like matching wreaths or potted plants, to tie everything together. You can also choose complementary colors or patterns for your front doors to create a cohesive and welcoming look.

9. Hang Some Artwork

Hanging artwork on your porch can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Choose pieces that are weather-resistant and hang them in a spot that's protected from the elements.

10. Use Outdoor Furniture

If your porch is large enough, consider adding some furniture to create a cozy seating area. A simple bench or a couple of chairs can create a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy your front porch. You can even try using that old furniture you were planning on tossing and repurposing it as outdoor decor for your front porch.

How do I decorate my front porch on a budget?

Making your front porch look good doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Decorating your front porch on a budget is easy with a little creativity.

You don't need to break the bank:

• Add some plants: Plants are an easy way to add color and texture to your front porch. Consider adding some potted plants or hanging baskets. Choose plants that are appropriate for the amount of sun or shade your porch gets, and make sure to water them regularly.
• Update your front door: Your front door is a focal point of your porch, so consider updating it with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. You could also add a wreath or other front door decor to make it more welcoming.
• Add seating: If you have the space, consider adding some seating to your front porch. A cozy chair or bench can be a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• Shop thrift stores and garage sales: You can find great deals on decor items at thrift stores and garage sales. Look for items that can be repurposed or updated with a little paint or fabric.
• DIY decor: Making your own decor items is a great way to save money. Consider making a wreath, painting some planters, or creating a unique doormat.
• Use what you already have: Look around your home for items that can be repurposed for your front porch decor. An old ladder could become a plant stand, or a vintage suitcase could be used as a side table.

How do I decorate my front porch entrance?

Your front porch entrance sets the tone for your entire home. Here are some tips for decorating your front porch entrance:

• Add a doormat: A doormat is both functional and decorative. Choose a doormat that complements your front porch decor and reflects your personal style.
• Hang a seasonal wreath: A wreath is an easy way to add some seasonal flair to your front porch. Consider changing it out each season or for different holidays.
• Add some lighting: Outdoor lighting can make your front porch feel more welcoming and safe. Consider adding some string lights or lanterns to your porch.

How can I make my front porch look cozy?

Your front porch should be cozy and inviting. Maybe you've been racking your brain on front porch ideas and have no idea how to spruce it up. All you need are some minor details to make all the difference.

Consider these:

• Add some cushions: Cushions can make any seating area feel more comfortable and inviting. Choose cushions that are made from durable, outdoor-friendly materials.
• Add some soft lighting: Soft lighting can make your front porch feel more intimate and cozy. Consider adding some candles, lanterns, or string lights to your front porch. Always aim for energy saving options.
• Use warm colors: Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can make your front porch feel cozy and welcoming. Consider adding some throw pillows, blankets, or other decor items in these hues.
• Use a rug: A textured or patterned outdoor rug can add warmth and coziness to your porch while also defining the space.

Tips for Creating a Welcoming Front Porch

Your front porch is the first impression visitors have of your home, and making it inviting can enhance the curb appeal of your property without undergoing a landscaping project. Consider adding some seating like a bench or chairs. Having a comfortable spot to sit and relax can make your front porch feel inviting and welcoming. Secondly, adding plants can add color and texture to your front porch. Potted plants or hanging baskets are an easy way to add some greenery to your outdoor space.

It doesn't require a lot:

Consider using warm lighting like candles, lanterns, or string lights to create a cozy ambiance on your front porch. These types of lighting can add warmth and depth to your outdoor space, making it feel like an extension of your home. By following these tips, you can create a welcoming front porch that makes a great first impression on visitors and adds value to your property.

Tips for Styling a Modern Front Porch

A front porch is the face of your home and it's the first thing that visitors see. If you have a modern home, styling your front porch can be a bit of a challenge as you'll want to keep the design simple, clean, and minimal.

First, keep it simple by selecting furniture and decor items that are simple and sleek. Choose items that have clean lines, and avoid cluttering the porch with too many accessories. Secondly, use neutral colors for your decor as they are a hallmark of modern design. Think about using colors like white, gray, and black as they create a sophisticated and timeless look.

Finally, incorporate some greenery to soften the overall look of your modern front porch. Adding potted plants or a living wall can bring a touch of nature to your outdoor space and make it more inviting. By following these tips, you can create a modern front porch that perfectly complements the overall design of your home while also adding value and curb appeal.

There are many ways to decorate your front porch, from creating a cozy and inviting space to making it look more modern and sophisticated. Whether you have a small front porch or a large front deck, there are plenty of decor ideas that can help you create a space that reflects your personal style and welcomes guests to your home. So grab some throw pillows, some plants, and some warm lighting, and get started on creating the front porch of your dreams!

5 Things You Need To Know BEFORE Tearing Down Your Deck

 

As the good weather approaches you’re probably starting to think about how you can upgrade your yard for the BBQ season ahead. If your wooden deck is starting to show its age, that might be just the place to start. A new deck can breathe life into your backyard and turn it back into that weekend oasis it used to be. Before you can build a new one though, you’ll have to remove the old one and in this guide we’re going to look at everything you’ll need to know for your deck removal.

 

1. Deck Tear Down Costs and Expenses

One of the first things you’ll want to consider are the out of pocket expenses. If you’re tearing the deck down by yourself there won’t be any labor costs, but you will have to set aside time to do it and that’s time you could be spending doing something else. You’ll have to weigh that against the cost of hiring someone to do the work for you and decide what the best route is for you.

How Much Does it Cost to Take a Deck Down?

If you decide that you don’t have the time to commit to your deck removal yourself, you’ll have to look at what it will cost to hire someone to take on the task for you. The price you’ll pay can vary depending on where you live, but according to House Beautiful the average is around $1,200.

Keep in mind that’s just the cost of the deck tear down, it doesn’t include the cost of having a new one professionally built. Depending on the size and scope of your deck project, a new deck professionally installed can cost you somewhere between $5,000 and $20,000 on average.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a 20 x 20 Deck?

If you want to go with a large deck it’s going to cost you a bit more for the installation. In the example we used above our maximum deck size was 16 x 20. The national average for a deck that size is around $20,000.

Upgrading to a 20 x 20 deck is going to take your installation costs up to $25,000 or more. That means with the cost of a professional removal and installation combined you’re now looking at a total price tag between $25,000 and $30,000.

That’s a substantial cost, but a well-maintained deck can last up to 40 years. If you have the budget, it’s a worthwhile investment when you consider how important your deck is as a design element in creating your backyard oasis.

2. Deck Tear Down Tools

If you’re going to take on any DIY project you have to have the right tools. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an indoor or outdoor job. Having the right tools for the job just makes things go a lot smoother.

Which Tools Do I Need?

While you can always improvise and work with the tools you have, it will be easier to tackle your deck tear down if you have all of the tools you need up front.

If you don’t have a tool you need, consider borrowing it from a friend or a family member. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to buy a tool for one job, unless you plan on doing a lot of projects in the near future for a complete backyard makeover where you’ll need that tool. You may also be able to rent some of these tools at your local tool rental company.

Here are the tools we recommend for your deck removal:

• Steel toe work boots
• Safety glasses
• Gloves to protect your hands
• A spade/shovel
• A reciprocating or hognose saw
• A sledgehammer
• A standard hammer
• Pry Bar
• Drill or screwdriver

3. Deck Tear Down Board Removal

If you’ve decided to take on your deck removal as a DIY project, having the right tools on hand is just the first step. You should easily be able to tackle the job on a weekend, but it’s best to give yourself the full weekend in case you run into anything unexpected. Before you can take the frame down you’ll have to remove the deck boards.

How Do You Remove Old Wood Deck Boards?

So just how do you go about removing old deck boards? Well that depends on whether your deck boards are nailed in or screwed in. If they’re screwed in, the task should be easier, as long as the screws aren’t stripped and worn down.

Removing Intact Screws from Deck Boards

When the screws in your old deck boards are still intact and in pretty good shape it’s a lot easier to remove them. While you can use a simple screwdriver for the task — it’s a labor intensive job. By the time you’re done you might not be able to feel your forearms!

A better way to go about it, is to charge up that cordless drill. Then all you have to do is to flip the switch to reverse and back out all the screws you can. There may still be some that are stripped you can’t remove and for that you’ll need to take a different approach.

Removing Deck Boards with Stripped Screws or Nails

If you run into a lot of stripped screws or if you discover that nails were used in place of screws when your deck was built, that cordless drill won’t help. In these situations it’s time to reach for that pry bar.

If you have some boards already removed it will be easier using the pry bar, but if you need to remove all boards using this method, it’s best to start at an edge where it’s easier to wedge the bar underneath that first board. Once you get that first board off, you’ll probably have an easier time with the rest, but it’s still going to be time consuming and physically demanding.

4. Deck Tear Down Frame Removal

Once you have all of those deck boards removed the final stage is removing the frame. That’s where the sledgehammer comes in handy. If your deck is old, you may be able to remove a lot of it with some strategically placed hammer blows. If there are exposed nails you may want to use a hammer to remove them first for safety reasons.

Sometimes you might need more than just a sledgehammer. That’s where the reciprocating or hognose saw can be useful. Use the saw to cut through those sturdy and stubborn posts where necessary.

The last stage is to remove the posts from the ground. You’ll have to pull out your shovel or spade and dig around the base. Concrete can be heavy, so you may need help lifting it out of the ground. Then you just have to remove all of that old material so you can prep the area for your new deck.

5. Disposing Of Materials

Now that you’ve torn down your old deck, everything will need to be cleared out to make room for your brand new one! Instead of lugging all of that old wood to the dump or out by your curb, try a dumpster rental! If you rent a dumpster it will be a lot easier getting rid of all of those old boards, posts and concrete. Then you’re ready to get started on the replacement.

15 Summer Projects You'll Need a Dumpster For

 

With summer in full swing, you’re probably starting to think about all of those projects you want to tackle this year. There are many potential options, but to keep things manageable, it’s a good idea to refine your list down to 2 or 3 things.

When you’re building or creating something new there’s probably going to be some old stuff you’ll need to get rid of. One of the easiest ways to do this is by renting a dumpster. Here are 15 summer projects you’ll need a dumpster for divided into 4 different types of projects. If you can, it’s best to tackle your projects one after the other so that you only need to rent a dumpster once.

What can you build in your backyard?

1. Building a Wooden Deck

One of the best outdoor summer projects you can take on to turn your backyard into your own personal oasis is the addition of a wooden deck. The cost of lumber can be a bit expensive, but the end result is usually worth it. Even a simple deck can add a lot of character to your backyard. If you're replacing an existing deck you can place all of the old material in your rented dumpster as you work.

2. Building an Outdoor Kitchen

When BBQ season hits, who wants to cook inside? Building your own outdoor kitchen is one of those outdoor summer projects that may seem like a dream, but it actually isn’t that hard of a project if you have some DIY skills. If you don’t, and you have the budget to hire a pro, it’s a great addition to any backyard.

3. Building a Gazebo

A gazebo is a great outdoor summer project if you don’t have a lot of natural shade in your yard. Even if you love soaking up the sun, it’s nice to be able to head to that shady spot for some relief once in a while. First, you have to prepare the area and level the ground. Any excess material can go in the dumpster you’ve rented for your summer projects. There are all kinds of different gazebo styles to choose from so you’re bound to find one that fits nicely with the test of your yard.

4. Building a Shed

If you don’t have a garage, building a decent size shed in your backyard is a great solution. Even if you don’t have the skills to build one from scratch, there are plenty of prefab options available. This is one of the larger outdoor summer projects you’ll probably take on so you’ll want to determine your budget ahead of time and make sure you can commit the time needed to see it through.

5. Adding Walkways and Concrete Patios

Another great way to spruce up your backyard this summer is by adding walkways or a concrete patio. You have countless options when it comes to concrete these days. The materials you choose for your dream patio are only limited by your imagination. You can opt for stamped concrete, colored concrete or stick to a more traditional look if you prefer.

What is the least expensive way to build a patio?

6. Replacing Worn Out Patio Stones

Probably one of the cheapest summer project ideas if you want to build a patio is to add patio stones. If you do the work yourself all you’ll have to do is remove any sod in the area you want to add your patio, level the ground, perhaps add a layer of stone screenings and you're ready to build your patio. Simple stones will cost between $5 and $10 per tile, so you can add a decent size patio for $200 to $400.

7. Re-sodding

If you want to set up your patio on your grass so that the area can be quickly repurposed when needed, you'll want to at least make sure the area is level. You may need to re-sod to replace worn out and unlevel sections. Using a grass area as a patio isn’t ideal, but it can work on level ground and it will save you a lot of money on expensive concrete or lumber.

How can you make your backyard fun for kids?

8. Preparing and Grading Land for Above Ground Pool

For the ultimate backyard makeover for kids, nothing beats a pool. Before you can put that pool in though, you’ll need to prepare and grade the land. Dropping a pool on uneven ground is never a good idea — it can cause the walls to collapse. Any extra dirt and sod can also go in your dumpster. Believe it or not, adding a small above ground pool can be one of those cheap summer project ideas that pays for itself in keeping your kids entertained all summer.

9. Installing a Pond

If your kids love fish, adding a backyard pond can be a fun project that they can help you with. Ponds can be as simple or elaborate as you like. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even consider adding a waterfall. You’ll be surprised how much extra dirt you’ll have as you dig the area out for your pond. If you don’t have somewhere else in your yard to put it, a dumpster is one of the easiest ways to get rid of it quickly.

How do you entertain a small backyard?

10. Adding a Sunroom

Some outdoor projects are a little more expensive than others and a sunroom definitely qualifies. If you have the budget though, it’s a great way to transform a small backyard into a nice area to entertain guests. Best of all you can use it year round.

11. Tree Removal

If you have too many trees in your yard it might be hard to enjoy that summer sun. Removing one or two of those trees can make a world of difference. If you have a small yard, it will also open up space for you to entertain this summer.

In terms of outdoor summer projects, it’s probably one of the ones that requires the least amount of DIY ability. It can be hard work though and it’s a good idea to make sure you have a chainsaw or at least rent one. Even one tree can produce a lot of lumber so that rental dumpster will really come in handy for this type of project.

12. Clearing Out the Shed

A large shed is another great potential spot for entertaining. You can add a bar on the exterior and perhaps a card table or game room inside. It will mean you’ll have to keep all of those garden tools in the garage, but it will make a nice addition to your backyard entertainment options. If you’ve been keeping tons of old junk in that shed, a dumpster will really come in handy.

13. Clearing Out the Garage

If you have a garage, it can be a great alternative to entertaining in a small backyard. Clearing out that garage can be a big job, but it’s a lot easier with a dumpster a few feet away. Once you have it completely cleared out you can turn it into a nice entertainment area. When it’s nice out you can open up the garage and enjoy the fresh air or close it if it's cold and raining.

14. A Yard Overhaul

If you’re happy with your deck, but your yard is in need of a makeover, a yard overhaul is probably in order. You can put all of those weeds, bushes, old sod and any other yard waste you have in your rented dumpster. If you don’t have a wheelbarrow, it’s probably one investment you should make before getting started.

15. Add a Privacy Fence or Trees

One other outdoor summer project that can really transform your yard is the addition of simple privacy. You can add a fence or some trees for privacy. If you have an existing chain link fence, it may be as simple as attaching some privacy lattice to that existing fence. These sheets are relatively inexpensive, but if you do plan on removing an old fence to build one that gives you more privacy, you’ll appreciate having that dumpster in your driveway. Although it takes time for trees to grow, they make for a beautiful wall of privacy and a great addition to your backyard.

When is the Best Time to Consider Remodeling Your Living Room

 

So you're thinking of renovating your living room? Maybe the old design is no longer inspiring, or you are ready to ditch the hand-me-down sofa you received from your parent's basement in college and upgrade to a beautiful modular sofa that you have noticed trending across interior design media pages. Or perhaps you want a complete remodel! An entire remodel is not such a bad idea because the living room gives visitors and family members their first impression upon entering our home.

Typical considerations when remodeling your living room are style focused: flooring type, lighting style & directionality, furniture layout, or repurposing existing pieces in different ways all contribute to a fabulous refresh. Choosing new window treatments and color palettes that will make it feel like home while still allowing sunlight during those warmer months are rewarding remodeling choices. However, one consideration that many don't factor into their remodeling is timing.

How do you know when it's the right time to renovate your living room? 

It might be because a relative is coming to visit, or maybe you want an update before the holidays arrive. This blog post will cover some timing issues that can affect whether this is a good time for renovations, as well as some super tips for timing your living room remodel.

Is there a best time to consider remodeling your living room? The answer will depend on what type of project you are considering. If it's with resale in mind, we recommend not starting during the peak selling season. This will allow for a better opportunity to sell the house, as you will not be staging, cleaning, and mid-renovation when buyers are looking.

If you are considering a living room overhaul before the holidays, be sure that your budget can accommodate any surprises with renovations and find out how much time might be involved in a project of this size. Contractors are often busy or taking a vacation right before the holidays. Ensuring that you have your project people in place before starting will help ease any potential stress. Taking care of some of the smaller details such as waste disposal will ensure that no matter how big or small your remodel is, things will go smoothly. Timing of course is everything, suppose Great Aunt Nancy visits with her new husband and three children. In that case, you want to be sure that your space is welcoming and comfortable before their arrival. Sometimes this might mean waiting until the holidays are over to begin a new project.

If you are considering a living room remodel because your space is not as comfortable or efficient as possible, think about whether you will want to move walls and install new windows. Remember that if work needs to happen outside of your home, please consider the weather conditions in your area.

Similarly, if you are hoping for a refresh before the holidays, consider how much money and time might be involved in a remodeling project.

Summer is the most common time to take on a renovation project. The kids are out of school, curb appeal is on the mind, and fair weather makes it easy to open a house. But there are some key advantages to renovating in the winter, like availability, cost, and timing.

Contractor availability

One advantage of choosing to engage a contractor for a renovation in the winter is less competition. Spring and summer are the busiest times of year for home renovations. Contractors' plates will be full once renovation season is in full swing, which could leave you competing for the best builders.

And a renovation project in the winter months may get you more time and attention from your contractor. While the best contractors and architects won't bite off more than they can chew, working with a contractor who has many projects can mean protracted schedules and slapdash work, which is more likely to happen in peak reno season schedules.

Off-season discounts

When business slows, contractors may reduce their prices a bit to keep their crews busy. If your remodel plan is more than a DIY job, this might be the perfect time to negotiate a great deal with a handyperson.

Loving the trend of beautiful modular sofas? You won't find any better deals than this during these winter months! Many stores offer terrific savings on floor models and electronics as well—especially after-holiday sales where they're slashing 20-50% off items in-store—this might be the perfect time to purchase that new wall-mounted T.V. you've been coveting.

So when is the best time for a renovation?

The bottom line is that while there may be more ideal times than others to consider a remodel, the best time for a renovation is when you are ready.

It is prudent to consider the timing when considering a remodel. If you are hoping for a refresh before the holidays, be sure to have your budget and time in mind! Regardless of what kind of project you're undertaking, it's important not to bite off more than you can chew--plan so that any stress (or costs) from renovations doesn't take away from enjoying your new space this holiday season. The great thing about living room projects is they usually don't require as much planning or permits as others might; keep weather considerations in mind if work needs to happen outside on your property!