The Guardian (Charlottetown)

Save time and money with material alternativ­es

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Home renovation­s are big business. The home renovation resource Home Advisor states that the national average cost of remodeling multiple rooms in a home was $41,784 in 2018.

While homeowners cannot change the size of rooms to save money, they can manipulate the materials used to keep expenses down. Many products on the market today are designed to replicate the look of more costly materials without the higher price tags. User-friendly DIY products also can help corral costs by cutting down on labor expenses.

RESILIENT FLOORING

Resilient flooring is manufactur­ered to mimic the look of hardwood, tile, stone, and other materials. According to Armstrong Flooring, specialize­d manufactur­ing processes and coatings create a product that resists stains, dents, moisture, and scratches. Most resilient products are made up of several layers to create stability and absorb sound. These products tend to be less expensive than the materials they replicate.

LAMINATE COUNTERTOP­S

Much like resilient flooring, laminate countertop­s are inexpensiv­e, low-maintenanc­e and durable alternativ­es to stone and solid-surface countertop­s. They come in many different styles that can look like granite or marble. Homeowners also can consider solid surface materials, tile, concrete, and wood block when looking for cost-efficient countertop materials.

SHOWER KITS

Bathroom renovation­s can increase the overall value of a home. But some homeowners do not have the time or money to do a complete bathroom remodel. Replacing an old vanity with a newer one and replacing an outdated tub/shower combinatio­n can improve the functional­ity of a space without breaking the bank. Shower kits and stalls enable homeowners to renovate bathrooms with less hassle than creating a tile- or stone-based shower enclosure. Kit pieces drop in place and may only require minor plumbing work. Certain kits can be installed directly over dated showers for a quick remodel turnaround.

CABINET REFACING

Homeowners who want to keep the layout of a kitchen intact but simply update its look can turn to cabinet refacing. The Kitchen Magic renovation company says refacing or resurfacin­g uses quality wood or laminate veneer to change the color and appearance of the exterior of cabinets without having to remove the existing cabinet frames. New doors, drawers and hardware will complete the transforma­tion at a fraction of the cost of a new cabinet build.

 ?? METRO PHOTO ?? Low-cost materials can keep renovation budgets in check and still produce beautiful results.
METRO PHOTO Low-cost materials can keep renovation budgets in check and still produce beautiful results.

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