How much to spend on home improvement? That’s the big question for many people today. How much should you spend on remodeling projects and what will provide a good return on investment?

We’ve all heard that kitchen and bathroom remodeling brings a good return, but what does that mean? In today’s economy, a modest remodeling project can be a good idea. The trick is staying away from the indulgence items that are over the top. Do you really need a $600 kitchen faucet, for example? Can you make do with standard tile and just add some nice accent tile in a few spots?

Remodeling and Maintenance 

Home maintenance projects also provide a good return, as they help keep your house in tip top shape. You don’t want to cut corners with window or roof repairs, for example, as they might lead to bigger home improvement problems down the road. read more »

If you’re planning a bigger remodeling project, you may be wondering whether you need an architect. It’s tempting to want to save the fee, but there are times when an architect is a must. Here’s how to decide.

An architect’s job is to look at the project and offer insights into the layout, floor plan, architectural style and any structural issues you might face. Some contractors have some of those skills and some don’t. If you’re doing a small bathroom or kitchen remodeling project where you’re just switching around a few fixtures and are not adding on space, an architect may not be needed. Most good contractors are well versed in how to make things fit.

An Architect’s Role 

If you’re adding onto your space, knocking down walls or reconfiguring the inside, then an architect usually is a must. Many municipalities require plans that are drawn by an architect, so it’s hard to avoid it that way. Don’t just look at the fee, however. The architect’s role can be crucial in helping you create a remodeling project that will blend well with your existing space. read more »

Selecting the color of your patio, walkway or driveway is a lot trickier than it seems. There are probably a few hundred options when you get into colors, borders and accent colors. This is true for remodeling projects that involve clay bricks or concrete pavers. Here’s a fun color selector!

That’s one reason why it pays to work with a good landscaping contractor who knows the various landscaping materials and can offer advice. Your contractor may suggest an orange brick to blend with the blue trim on your house or a gray brick if you want a more subtle look.

Ask the Contractor 

One key question is whether you want to blend or contrast. Do you want your house paint colors to stand out and the patio to blend into the overall landscaping? Or, do you want the bright red walkways and patio to be the focal points? If you wanted to blend, select the same brick as the house in this image. read more »

If you have an old bathroom, you’d probably jump at the chance to remodel it. If you’re trying to work within a small footprint, however, the home improvement options may be limited.

One solution is to expand the bathroom so you can get the large soaker tub, shower and nice vanity you want. A larger, modern bathroom can bode well for your home’s value and provide a strong payback when it’s time to sell.

Contractor Talk 

Here’s what you should think about as you talk with contractors about your remodeling plans. read more »

If you’re looking around your bathroom craving a more enticing design, consider these weekend fixes. There are several ways to transform your bathroom design without spending months gutting the room and installing new components.

One great and inexpensive bathroom remodeling project is painting. This is the best way to make a big impact quickly. Depending on the condition of the walls, you can have the space repaired, primed and painted in a weekend. Consider these bathroom designs!

Try a warm earth tone to add some flair or go with a sea blue for a nautical theme. If you have a few more days, try adding a faux finish to add some texture. Just select two colors that are at least two shades apart so you have some contrast. Many home improvement stores offer classes on faux painting, so even novice painters can learn the ropes. read more »

The bathroom is a highly important room of the house, from a visual perspective as well as a functional one. If your bathroom needs updating, here are some quick home improvement projects that can save you from the cost of a full scale remodeling.

The bathtub often becomes a source of frustration, particularly if the tub is old and has rusty water spots, grouting issues and plain old ugly tile. Our great solution is bathtub refinishing. We’ve tried this with a few tubs with great success.

One word of caution, however. This is  a job for a contractor who specializes in bathtub refinishing. There are plenty of great DIY remodeling projects, but this one requires lots of smelly chemicals and knowledge of ventilation. Besides, for about $350, the contractor will come in and spray the tub with a fresh coat of paint—well, it looks like paint, anyway. Like new in about five hours.

Bathroom Tile Remodeling 

Next comes the tile, another source of frustration if it’s not to your tastes. If you’re having the tub refinished, ask the contractor about spraying the tile as well. You’ll come away with a fresh clean look that will last for years. Or, try painting the tile. read more »

Glance around your house. Is it neat as a pin? Everything put away in its place? If you’re like most of us, the answer is a resounding “no!” Keeping your home organized can be tricky, particularly if you have children.

Organizing your space is an important home improvement project, however, because it can give you peace of mind. Here are some tips for getting started. While this may not top your list of key remodeling projects (think—new kitchen!), it is guaranteed to help you sleep a little better at night. And, the bonus is that this type of home improvement carries a minimal cost.

Small Home Improvement Steps 

Let’s start with what the blogs are saying. Here’s an interesting blog that talks about starting small. The key is that any little area you organize will help. Step by step. read more »

A major kitchen remodeling is a big undertaking, both financially and emotionally. All those decisions to make…all those months of washing dishes in the bathtub.

If you’re not ready for a major revamp of your kitchen design, look at the alternatives. Painting, new flooring and new wall tile can do wonders, as can a revamp of the kitchen cabinets.

If you’re debating whether to do a room addition, start by looking at the pros and cons. This will help you narrow down whether this home improvement project is the best thing for you.

Remodeling for Space 

One of the biggest pros to a room addition is the extra space and functionality. Depending on the size, you can add a nice t.v. room, a home office or even expand your kitchen with a breakfast room. As you talk with contractors, ask about how much space would be allowed on your lot. Then compare it with your budget.

One of the biggest reasons to not do a room addition is the cost. While this type of home improvement project can greatly enhance your living space, there is a price tag. A contractor will have to dig a foundation, frame the space, as well as add all the electrical, plumbing and other components.

Remodeling Costs 

Many room additions cost $40,000 or more, depending on the area and size. If you’re strapped for space, this could be a great investment, but if you’re thinking of it as a luxury, you’ll have to debate the value of the project. Also think about the yard space you’ll lose and whether that is important to you.

Before committing to a room addition, get a detailed price list from the contractor. This will help you determine if the cost provides enough value for you. In many cases, a room addition will pay off in 5 to 7 years, but it depends on your market. The enhanced lifestyle, however, can quickly pay off.

Room additions also take several months to complete. Think about whether this type of disruption can fit with your lifestyle and temperament! As you debate the process, weigh the pros and cons and you’ll soon figure out which path to take.

While the kitchen and bathroom get lots of attention in the home improvement world, the master bedroom often is overlooked. That place where you go to crash at the end of the day can become a wonderful retreat, with a little remodeling effort.

Glance around your room and give it a cold, hard assessment. Does the furniture fit the space? Is the bedding attractive? How is the paint?

Dividing Home Improvement 

This type of home improvement project can be broken down into two segments – decorative and structural. The decorative part is the fun stuff- a new comforter and sheets, furniture, etc. The structural part might involve a contractor. read more »