6 Clever Ways to Makeover an Old Kitchen without Breaking the Bank
Kitchen remodels are expensive. In fact, the average kitchen renovation costs a homeowner more than $21,000. Add to that number the cost of new appliances and fixtures, and you’ve got an expensive headache waiting for some aspirin or a new budget.
What if you could give your tired old kitchen a makeover without spending a ton of money? Here’s how:
1. Paint it!
It’s not just for kids’ rooms anymore! Painting is one of the most cost-efficient ways to change your cabinets for better or worse. Use Benjamin Moore Harmony semi-gloss paint in the Mediterranean Sea (2050) or Cafe Au Lait (2062), depending on whether they’re painted furniture pieces or wall cabinets. The entire kitchen will cost about $400 and you’ll be ready to host your next dinner party in no time.
2. Change your hardware
Hardware is affordable and can change the look of any room or cabinet. You don’t need to buy new appliances, just replace the knobs and pulls for a fresh update! Or go big with mailbox numbers and unique plates for an almost total transformation. Hardware runs about $20 per drawer and $50 per door, depending on design, size, the complexity of installation, etc., but this small investment has a chic return.
3. Replace old appliances
You’re not going to find brand-spankin’ new appliances at the thrift store, but there are tons of options from estate sales on eBay that are less expensive than new. And, they’ll look brand new once you polish them up with some Windex and elbow grease.
4. Give it a facelift
Doors can look brand spanking new for less than $100 bucks! Just take the doors off of your cabinets and film them with Benjamin Moore latex paint in Satin Impervo (2000) or Semi-Gloss Latex (2050). If you’re particularly handy, swap out the cabinet facepieces as well. The best part? You won’t have to worry about getting paint on any appliances because there aren’t any!
5. Tile it!
Believe it or not, tiles are chicer than ever – even if they’re not grouted. You can stick to subway tiles, which are still popular for their affordability and classic look or try something new with mosaics. The newest trend is white subway tile with a mosaic backsplash – it’s chic AND cheap! And you can even use pennies to add some bling to the design.
6. Replace old countertops
Kitchen countertops are almost always made of granite, but because of its high cost, many homeowners have turned to laminate instead. They’re just as attractive and offer a ton of different patterns that look surprisingly similar to real stone. You’ll be able to get laminates for less than half the price of granite and they come in any color or finish you want! Plus, they require little to no maintenance.
You can also try butcher block or Formica countertops, which are both affordable and extremely stylish. Formica even offers glossy finishes that mimic granite or marble for less!
So what are you waiting for? The next time you’re stuck with an outdated kitchen; don’t break the bank to update it. Just use these 6 tips to get the kitchen of your dreams for less!
FAQs:
Q) Will I need to hire a professional?
A) No, you can do it yourself! But if you want to hire someone, go for it. Just make sure they are licensed and insured.
Q) What will I need to get started?
A) Canvas drop cloths, two paint trays, a paint roller with extension pole, and a mini roller for tight spots.
Q) What paint colors should I use?
A) Benjamin Moore’s Cafe Au Lait (2062), which is a rich color; or Mediterranean Sea (2050). They will make your cabinets look new!
Q) How long will it take?
A) If everything goes right, the painting process should only take a few days. But if you’re an amateur painter like me, expect to spend at least a week on this project.
Q) Where can I get great deals on appliances and countertops?
A: Check out local estate sales or thrift stores for some one-of-a-kind finds! And you can also shop on eBay for good deals on both appliances and countertops.
Conclusion:
Kitchen renovations can be scary or overwhelming. But don’t let the cost stand in your way of a beautiful kitchen! Spend some time doing it yourself and you’ll get exactly what you want for less!