DIY projects offer an excellent opportunity to revitalize your home without breaking the bank. With just one weekend, you can make significant upgrades that reflect your personal style.
Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just getting started, discover five simple yet transformative DIY projects for your home that cost under $200, featuring ideas like painting your fireplace and updating your door hardware.
5 Budget-Friendly Home Improvement Ideas
1. Create a DIY Stair Runner
Transform your staircase with a DIY runner, a project that can be tackled in a single weekend. Claire Douglas, a DIY expert, states that the process might seem daunting, but it's achievable.
'This project generally requires a day for preparation and another for installation,' she explains. Start by removing any old carpet using a Goldblatt Trim Puller available at Amazon, then sand the edges and remove any staples with a Carpet Staple Puller available at Amazon.
Repair any damaged wood with filler and paint exposed areas before fitting your runner. Claire suggests marking where to place the runner and using double-sided carpet tape available at Amazon to secure it tightly. Finish by attaching carpet tacks or staples along each step.
For more detailed guidance, check out Claire's DIY stair runner tutorial on her site, which includes her recommended tools:
All prices correct at time of publication.
Before
After
Leaves no residue
This heavy-duty tape bonds quickly without leaving any residue behind.
100 gram pack
These durable tacks are perfect for carpet installation, made from quality alloy steel.
Shrink and crack resistant
This easy-to-apply filler ensures smooth, durable repairs for cracks and holes.
2. Update Door Handles and Hinges
Refreshing your door handles and hinges can significantly elevate your space. Ryan Meagher from a contracting firm suggests this simple update is a quick weekend task.
'With a screwdriver or drill, you can easily swap out outdated handles for a modern look,' he states. Start by unscrewing the existing handle using a CRAFTSMAN Ratcheting Screwdriver available at Amazon.
Different doors require specific handle types, such as privacy locks for bathrooms or keyed locks for bedrooms. Ensure the new hinges match your handle style by bringing an existing hinge to your local hardware store.
Buying handles and hinges in bulk online can make this project cost-effective, so plan your selections accordingly.
No additional hardware required
These stylish horizontal handles will enhance any kitchen, living area, or bathroom.
Pack of 10
These affordable knobs feature a classic round shape with an antique brass finish.
Constructed from glass and iron
This unique glass and iron handle adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom while staying budget-friendly.
3. Refresh Your Fireplace with Paint
Painting your fireplace is an excellent way to give it a new look for around $50. Mark Lumpkin, a design expert, recommends cleaning the surface to remove any residue and applying a high-temperature primer followed by two coats of heat-resistant paint, such as the Rutland Products Black Rutland 1200-Degree F Brush-On Flat Stove Paint available at Amazon.
This project takes about six to eight hours in total, making it easy to complete in a single day. You can even use the same paint on IKEA furniture for a unified appearance.
27-piece set Paint Roller Kit with Extension Pole
This set has everything you need for easy painting, whether it's for your fireplace or other areas in your home.
4. Install a Tiling Backsplash
Installing a backsplash is simpler than you might think. Mark advises prepping the wall surface before applying peel-and-stick tiles in your preferred design. A unique option is a vinyl backsplash that mimics traditional tiles with less hassle.
This project can be completed in about four to six hours, making it a perfect weekend endeavor. Punteha van Terheyden used mesh sheet tiles for her project, which simplifies installation—just stick the sheet on and grout.
Punteha used a mesh sheet for her backsplash, making the process quick and easy.
5. Revamp Your Front Door
The Weaver's Hand Door Knocking from deVOL Kitchens adds charm to any entrance.
Your front door is the first impression guests have, so updating it can enhance curb appeal. Cleaning and repainting your door is a quick way to refresh your home's look. Carr Lanphier, a renovation expert, says that painting is a great weekend project.
Mark suggests allowing around three to four hours for this task, using Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance Enamel Spray Paint available in 22 colors at Amazon for a lasting finish. Consider upgrading your door knocker for an added touch of elegance.
Solid brass ExcelMark Door Knocker
This polished brass door knocker offers a sophisticated look at an affordable price, complete with installation screws.
Meet Our Experts
Claire specializes in creating stylish designs on a budget, featured in several prominent home publications.
This family-run contracting business focuses on renovations and home improvements since 1997.
A construction expert with a history of successfully flipping properties and managing rentals.
Looking for more DIY inspiration? Consider creating a gallery wall, adding decorative trimmings, or enhancing your staircase design. You can also paint uPVC window frames for an updated, polished finish in just a weekend.
