If you’re not planning a major kitchen remodeling for the New Year, how about some easy kitchen upgrades? As Better Homes and Gardens notes, the kitchen is a great spot for inexpensive changes that make a big difference.

A new countertop can make a big design statement and make meal prep much nicer. If you’re living with an old laminate with scratches and discoloration, try a solid surface or granite countertop. Granite has a big draw, so it can also help with resale down the road. You can find off-price granite countertops that are sold through stone fabricators as remnants because they may have an imperfection or two. With solid surface, check home improvement stores for sales.

Everything and the Kitchen Sink

The kitchen sink and faucet also are easy updates. HGTV recommends a number of easy updates for sinks and faucets. The sink is the backbone of the kitchen, so look for one that is sturdy and large enough for washing all those pots and pans. When shopping for faucets, try one with a pull out sprayer.

Painting is another easy home improvement project that can transform a kitchen design. Paint the walls, of course, but also consider painting old kitchen cabinets if they are in good shape. Kitchen cabinets really set the tone, so try a cream or white with a pewter glaze for effect.

Adding a Kitchen Island

If your kitchen has enough space, why not add a kitchen island, a low-cost improvement according to the remodeling site Demesne? There are plenty of portable ones on wheels that can be moved around for entertaining, storage, etc. Just make sure you have at least 42 inches around the island for traffic flow.

Kitchen Design With Lighting

Undercabinet lighting is another kitchen design option that adds a big bang for the buck. There are kits sold at home improvement stores so you can just install each puck light under a section of cabinetry and simply plug it in. Viola. “New” kitchen.

If your space seems cramped, think about remodeling solutions that will open up rooms and bring in light.

Whether you live in a small condo or a large home, light and openness can be an issue. There are several home improvement options that can help brighten your space and make it more enjoyable.

Add Light with Replacement Windows

Replacement windows are a key home improvement solution for areas where light is limited, according to Buzzle.com. If you have walls without windows or with small windows that don’t bring in light, consider large replacement windows. A bay or casement window can make a dramatic difference in any living room or family room.

Depending on the situation, you might need a contractor to install the window. This often is the case if you are increasing the size of the opening, as the contractor would have to take out sections of the wall to add a larger window.

Try a Skylight Contractor

HGTV also recommends skylights as another option for bringing in light. A contractor can add a skylight fairly easily, making a bathroom, kitchen or family room more inviting. Just make sure the edges are sealed properly so that they do not leak!

Another popular home improvement option is to remove a wall between two rooms, Do It Yourself or Not reports. You’ll want to make sure the wall is not load bearing, however. This is a popular remodeling project in older homes that have a wall that separates the kitchen from the family room. Given the extend of the remodeling fix, a contractor should be consulted on this remodeling project.

Before deciding how to remodel you home, walk around and look for the dark areas. Where would an extra replacement window make a difference? If you knocked down a wall–or half of it–would it make a difference? You’ll then know which remodeling approach to take.

Decorative molding can do wonders for a house, as it adds character, dimension and interest. If you’re wondering how to update a plain vanilla dining room or a boring foyer, try a ceiling medallion or three layers of crown molding.

Adding decorative molding typically takes the finesse of a good contractor who knows how to do trim work. While some people can do this themselves, there is a lot of precise cutting involved. Particularly in the corners! Installing decorative molding can be tricky, so consider these tips from Lowe’s or consult a contractor.

Where to Put Decorative Molding

Decorative molding can go anywhere, but quality matters, according to Inviting Home. These are more decorative areas in many homes and decorative molding helps pull the room together. If your home improvement plans include revamping any of these rooms, think about crown or baseboard molding.

When shopping for decorative molding, think about the style of your house–fussier houses need fussier molding. How much woodwork do you have now? Is it ornate or plain, as you want to blend it all together as much as possible.

Decorative Molding: Chair Rails

Another option is chair rail molding, such as these at Home Portfolio, which adds a nice accent midway down the wall. This is common in a dining room and can really dress up the room. Often the chair rail molding is paired with “picture frame” molding that creates squares on the lower section of the walls. Classic stuff!!

Contractor Requirements

When hiring a contractor to install decorative molding, ask about his or her expertise with woodworking. You want someone who appreciates nice woodwork and can troubleshoot uneven walls, odd corners and other issues.

Decorative molding is a great home improvement project, as it adds value the minute it’s done. Pick one room or do the whole first floor. You’ll love the new presentation.

Many people make resolutions this time of year–lose weight, pay off debt, on and on. Resolutions aren’t a bad thing if they help motivate. When it comes to home remodeling resolutions, there are plenty to try:

Plan Your Remodeling

The key ingredient in any home remodeling project is planning. Whether it’s a kitchen remodeling or a room addition, plan it out. Think about what you want and why. How do you use your space? What might make it function better? Then work with a good contractor to make it happen.

Find the Right Contractor

Contractor issues are one of the biggest hurdles to remodeling, but they don’t have to be. If you do your homework, really check references and make sure the contractor specializes in your type of remodeling, you should be fine.

One thing people forget is to go look at the contractor’s references and ask lots of questions. You might see tiles out of alignment, cabinet doors that are uneven…it’s all in the details. A good contractor should be happy to show you his or her remodeling work.

Don’t Overspend When Remodeling

Sure, many remodeling projects go over budget because of unexpected surprises, but you can build that into your project. Avoid letting the remodeling project run on and on because you keep asking for more changes. Set a budget you can live with, add a 10 to 15 percent contingency and then call it a day. If you’re doing a kitchen remodeling, for example, that 10 percent can add up–try not to let it go higher.

Check out this handy remodeling estimator that takes you through several scenarios in terms of level of finish and cost.

As the New Year approaches, think about what types of remodeling projects you want to do. Then make a few resolutions–ones you can keep.

Where do you leave your shoes, coats and hats at the end of the day? If you’re lucky, you’ve got a mudroom for all that household stuff. If not, it’s time to remodel it in!

Mudroom Remodeling Tips

Mudrooms are a great idea for many busy families, but they aren’t a natural part of every home. When trying to squeeze one in, a contractor is often needed. In many cases, this type of home improvement project involves taking space from a nearby laundry room or closet.

It helps to draw out the floor plan on paper and see where you can borrow space. Then ask a contractor for mudroom layout ideas–often they have done similar projects and can lend a creative eye to the remodeling.

Here are a few mudroom remodeling options:

• Move or remove a wall to an adjacent room. But check with a contractor to make sure it’s not load bearing first.
• Improvise with existing space by adding cabinets or a portable closet and hooks.
• Remove an old closet and build a new one that is more functional.

Remodel for More Space

The goal of most mudroom remodeling projects is to create some efficiency and organization. Think about the family routine and ask yourself: What is the most important element of this? Do you need a bench at the back door for kids to use when taking off shoes? Is a closet with a door more important? Should the mudroom remodeling include tying into the laundry room?

Ask your contractor how he or she can maximize your space. Often this involves building some customized shelving and storage units. And don’t forget all that vertical space. Shelves that go up near the ceiling are great for storing out-of-season items.

A new mudroom can be a great addition to any home. Think efficiency as you plan this fun remodeling project.

During the holiday season, people are more focused on buying new products than returning the ones they already own. One product recall this week deserves special attention, however. That’s the massive window treatment recall that affects millions of blinds and Roman shades because they may pose a safety risk to small children.

Many people have one version or another of the popular window treatments that were sold in major retail stores. Those who missed the news can read the details from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Check Window Treatment Cords

The key for homeowners is to go around and check all the blinds and shades for loose cords. Any cord that is not tight or forms a loop could be a strangulation hazard for a small child. Also, window treatments with cords that are accessible–meaning a small child could grab it and pull–are a danger. In some cases, the cords might be on the back of the window treatment.

Window Treatment Repair Kit

Anyone with window blinds or Roman shades that fall into the dangerous category should go to this window treatment organization’s website or call (800) 506-4636 to get a free repair kit. The Consumer Product Safety Commission also recommends not putting window treatments with cords near cribs or children’s beds. As many parents know, some kids like to climb and can get curious about cords.

When shopping for window treatments, make sure to ask about the safety aspects of their products. Vendors should be aware of safety features or concerns and prepared to answer your questions.

Home Improvement: Safety First

Safety is an important issue with any type of home improvement project. Before buying new blinds or shades, take time to examine them and see how they might work around small kids. Cordless window coverings such as drapes are recommended for homes with small children.

Home offices–it’s hard to live without them these days.If you’re looking to add one to your home or remodel your existing office, it’s a relatively easy home improvement project as long as you already have the space.

You may need a contractor for electrical work or if you’re adding major shelving or dividing up a room into cubicle-like areas. Otherwise, you’re just figuring out the location, and shopping for furniture, lighting and storage options. No heavy home improvement, drills or lifting involved.

Where to Put a Home Office

You’ll want to put your home office someplace that is away from the swirl of family life, but close enough to the kitchen for periodic coffee breaks. Someone who plans to see clients might consider a space that is near the front door so the clients don’t have to walk through the house.

Outfitting a Home Office

Styles of home office design can really run the gamut from traditional to eclectic. The type of furniture, lighting and general decor can make a huge difference in how the room looks and feels. If you’re an artsy type, don’t feel that you have to do the standard wooden desk and chair. The important thing is to make it comfortable and have everything laid out to fit your needs–a computer area, desk work space, and filing cabinets are a must.

Home Office Productivity

Since this is an office, you’ll need to think about what layout works best for your productivity. Many home offices are tucked away in a quiet place to promote concentration. Others have wide walls of windows for mood and lighting. If you want a scenic view in your office, check with a contractor about adding a few windows.

You’ll also need good wiring and light fixtures, which may involve a contractor. As far as home improvement projects go, this one is relatively painless and usually doesn’t involve a lot of structural changes. It’s figuring out all the computer wiring that might drive you crazy.

Are you looking to transform your kitchen on a dime? For $500, you can dress up several areas of this important gathering spot.

While a major kitchen remodeling project can cost thousands of dollars, you can take $500 and spread around some nice updates. Kitchen cabinet hardware is the first update to consider. For about $50, you can get sleek metal pulls, clunky porcelain knobs, or artsy glass hardware. Most kitchen cabinet hardware is priced from $1 to $10 each, so you can go crazy and still stay on budget.

Kitchen Faucet Trends

The kitchen faucet and sink are the next products to think about replacing. Many modern kitchen faucets have a pull out sprayer that makes rinsing the dishes and cleaning the sink a breeze. Try a high-arching kitchen faucet for some drama.

When shopping for a sink, try a stainless steel model to add a professional culinary feel to your kitchen. You’ll need to use the same size you have unless you’re also replacing the counter top–which would cost more than $500. Faucets range from $50 to $300 or so; sinks go from $75 to $400 or more.

Kitchen Cabinet Updates

The kitchen cabinets also offer opportunities for upgrading. If you’re living with old cabinets that are dated but in good shape, consider painting or re-staining them. With a few weekends of work, you can transform the kitchen. If you do the work yourself, the cost could be as low as $100 or so for supplies.

The last step is to look at new window treatments. New blinds or drapes can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. They also help insulate and save energy costs. Plan to spend $30 to $100 per window, depending on the window treatment style.

Kitchen remodeling doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With small touches, every little bit adds up.

Wintertime is a good time to think about garage organization. Hey, if you can’t go outside, why not do a little organizing?

If you’re living in a colder climate, garage organization becomes important because you need extra room to come in and out without snow getting all over your garage items. There are lots of garage organization ideas in the marketplace, ranging from wall-to-wall shelving to portable shelving.

Garage Organization Ideas

The solution depends on the size of your garage and how much space you have around each vehicle. If one side of the garage is always a tight fit, start there. Are there items along the edges that could be moved to a wall rack? Bikes, sleds and gardening tools are just a few examples.

Contractor or Not?

Many garage organization systems can be installed by the average home owners. When you start getting into overhead storage and building cubby holes for hockey equipment, however, you might want a contractor’s help. A good carpenter or general contractor can do the work, depending on the size of the job.

Overhead Garage Organization Systems

With any organization you want to group similar items together and store them based on how often you use them. Lawn and garden tools and supplies can be kept near the door to the yard, for example. The holiday decorations can be stored overhead, assuming you asked the contractor to build out that space–a great way to maximize storage. Check out these cool overhead garage organization systems.

Before getting into garage organization, consider finishing off the walls so you get a more appealing look. If it’s plain drywall, paint it before you install shelving. If height is a problem, call a painting contractor for an estimate. When it’s all done, you’ll be amazed how nice the garage can look!

As you plan next year’s remodeling projects, you might be debating how to pay for them. Should you use cash or finance them? The answer is not always easy, but here’s what to think about:

1. The remodeling cost. Certainly, if you’re planning to spend $1,000 or less, it’s a good idea to pay for some or all of the remodeling in cash (assuming this won’t leave you without any emergency funds). If this seems like a stretch, can you delay the project for 3 to 6 months and save money somehow? You’ll feel better using some cash and knowing your home improvement financing is not getting out of hand.
2. The size of the project. If this is a major kitchen remodeling, you likely will need some home improvement financing. Home equity loans or lines of credit are good, as they carry a low interest rate and typically are tax deductible. They are harder to come by these days, so shop around. Even so, perhaps you can pay for the faucet and sink with cash. Every little bit helps.
3. The length of the remodeling. If this is a project that will be completed over several months or even a year, home improvement financing can help you manage the costs and hold onto your savings for emergencies. You don’t want to spend your $10,000 nest egg on remodeling and then have to tap into a home equity loan to pay for furnace repairs.

Keep Home Improvement Financing Handy

Regardless the size of the remodeling project, make sure you have some home improvement financing on hand. A line of credit is ideal, as it allows you to write checks when you need them. If your $1,000 project turns into a $2,500 one, at least you should have funds to access. Just don’t go crazy–you do have to pay it back one day.