Cheapskate kitchen makeovers
The average kitchen renovation costs $ 21,751…unless you know these tricks for a facelift at a fraction of the price
with Mimic granite “paint-on” stone
Upgrading laminate countertops with the look of sought-after granite doesn’t need to be pricey: “Just coat them with a stone refinishing kit that you simply paint on,” says DIY guru Danny Lipford. “The kit actually contains finely ground stone, giving it a pretty phenomenal look of real granite.” One option: Daich Spreadstone Countertop Refinishing Kit, $150, Amazon.com.
Enlarge your space with clever lighting
A well-lit kitchen makes your space look bigger and more inviting. One way to “fake” fancy lighting without the costly installation? “Stick a few round battery-operated LED lights— a pack of five costs about $ 20 at home-improvement stores— on the bottom of cabinets to highlight decor elements underneath, like pretty jars,” says Lipford. “It’s an easy way to enhance your kitchen.”
Give appliances a new look with liquid steel
Few things modernize a kitchen faster than stainless steel. To get the look, brush appliances with stainless steel paint. Says Lipford, “Apply it using a foam roller, then add sealer to give it luster.” One to try: Nuvo Stainless Steel Appliance Paint Kit, $ 25, Home Depot.
Create a chic backsplash with a sticky mat
It’s easy (and cheap) to create a backsplash without mess or mortar: “Just pick up a tile-adhesive mat,” Lipford advises. “It works like double-stick tape on any wall, so all you have to do is place tiles on the mat and you’re done in less than an hour.” One option: Simple Mat 10 sq. ft. Tile Setting Mat, $ 26, Home Depot.
Renew your faucets with pretty bronze “bling”
To give your sink a look as trendy as it is timeless, consider spraying faucets with oil-rubbed bronze paint. “It has a warm patina that’s very popular right now,” observes Lipford. Just sand chrome faucets to remove the shine first. Bonus style points: “Spray the strainer, too, for a cohesive look.” One option: Rust-oleum Oil-rubbed Bronze Paint & Primer, $ 7, Lowe’s.