10 Affordable Home Improvements You Can DIY This Weekend

When it comes to making your house feel like a home, you don’t need to spend a fortune or hire a professional contractor. There are plenty of budget-friendly home improvement projects that you can tackle over the weekend. These improvements not only boost your home’s appearance but also increase its functionality and even add to its value.

Here’s a list of 10 affordable home improvements you can do this weekend to refresh your living space.

1. Refresh Your Walls With a New Coat of Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to transform any room. Whether you want to brighten up a dull space, add a bold accent wall, or cover up scuff marks, paint can make a huge difference.

Tips:

• Choose light, neutral colors for smaller rooms to make them feel larger.
• Opt for bold or trendy colors in bathrooms, bedrooms, or kitchens for a modern touch.
• Don’t forget to prep the walls by cleaning and sanding before painting for a smooth finish.

Average Cost: $20–$50 per gallon of paint

Time Required: 4–8 hours, depending on room size

2. Update Cabinet Hardware

Replacing outdated cabinet knobs and handles is a simple project that instantly modernizes your kitchen or bathroom. You’ll be surprised how such a small change can give your cabinets a whole new look.

Tips:

• Measure existing hardware before buying new ones to ensure a perfect fit.
• Choose finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or antique brass for a trendy update.

Average Cost: $2–$5 per piece

Time Required: 1–2 hours

3. Install Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

If your kitchen or bathroom walls are looking plain, a peel-and-stick backsplash can add character and charm without the mess of grout and mortar. These adhesive tiles come in a variety of styles including subway tile, mosaic, and stone-look.

Tips:

• Clean and dry the wall surface before installation.
• Use a utility knife or scissors for precise cuts around outlets and edges.

Average Cost: $5–$10 per square foot

Time Required: 2–4 hours

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4. Add Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are both functional and decorative. Use them to display photos, plants, books, or kitchen essentials. They’re perfect for filling empty wall space in living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

Tips:

• Use a stud finder for secure mounting.
• Mix and match shelf sizes for visual interest.

Average Cost: $20–$50 per shelf

Time Required: 1–3 hours

5. Replace Old Light Fixtures

Upgrading your lighting fixtures can dramatically change the ambiance of a room. Whether it’s a new pendant light in the dining room or stylish sconces in the hallway, fresh lighting adds a modern touch.

Tips:

• Always turn off the electricity at the breaker box before replacing fixtures.
• Choose energy-efficient LED bulbs to save on your utility bill.

Average Cost: $30–$100 per fixture

Time Required: 1–2 hours

6. Revamp Your Front Door

Boost your home’s curb appeal by giving your front door a facelift. A fresh coat of paint in a bold color, new house numbers, or a decorative wreath can make your entryway more inviting.

Tips:

• Clean and sand the door before painting.
• Choose a weather-resistant exterior paint.
• Replace old door hardware for a cohesive look.

Average Cost: $25–$75

Time Required: 2–4 hours

7. Update Bathroom Accessories

Switching out your bathroom’s accessories is an easy and inexpensive way to give the space a fresh look. New towel bars, shower curtains, bath rugs, and soap dispensers can make a big difference.

Tips:

• Stick to a color scheme for a coordinated look.
• Look for affordable sets that include multiple accessories.

Average Cost: $50–$100 for a full set

Time Required: 1–2 hours

8. Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat not only adds modern convenience to your home but can also help lower your energy bills. Many models are easy to install and can be controlled via smartphone apps.

Tips:

• Make sure your HVAC system is compatible before purchasing.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for installation.

Average Cost: $100–$250

Time Required: 1 hour

9. Create an Accent Wall With Wallpaper or Decals

If you’re not ready to commit to painting, removable wallpaper or wall decals can add color and personality to your space. Today’s options are easier to install and remove than ever before.

Tips:

• Clean the wall thoroughly before application.
• Start from the top and work your way down, smoothing out bubbles as you go.

Average Cost: $30–$100 depending on material and size

Time Required: 2–3 hours

10. Organize Your Closet

Cluttered closets can be frustrating and make it hard to find what you need. Spend a weekend decluttering and organizing your closet space with bins, hooks, and shelves.

Tips:

• Donate or discard items you no longer use.
• Group clothing by type or color for easy access.
• Add over-the-door hooks or hanging organizers to maximize space.

Average Cost: $50–$150 for organizers and bins

Time Required: 3–5 hours

Read more: How to Remove Carpet in 10 Easy Steps

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a huge budget or a team of professionals to improve your home. With a bit of creativity and a few hours over the weekend, you can tackle these affordable projects and make your home more beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Whether you’re adding a splash of color, upgrading lighting, or organizing your storage spaces, these improvements will refresh your living environment and possibly even increase your home’s value.