Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash (license)
One of the easiest DIY home improvement ideas is to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh look is with a peel-and-stick backsplash. These adhesive tiles mimic the look of ceramic or glass without the mess, cost, or skill level required to install the real thing.
I love these because they’re renter-friendly and easy to remove if you change your mind later. Most options are water-resistant and heat-safe, too, which makes them perfect for behind sinks or stoves. All you need is a level, a utility knife or scissors, and a bit of patience to line things up right.
BEWARE: Clean the wall surface thoroughly. Preparation in this case is paramount. Otherwise, your peel-and-stick backsplash won’t do much sticking. Once the wall is prepped, peel the backing off the tile, and stick it in place, being sure to apply firm pressure across the tile to ensure adhesion. Within a few hours, you’ve got a backsplash that looks professionally installed—and if you ask me, that’s time very well spent!
Upgrade Cabinet Hardware
This one’s probably the fastest makeover on the list. Swapping out old cabinet knobs and drawer pulls for something more modern can instantly refresh the entire room. It’s amazing how a $30 hardware upgrade can make your kitchen or bathroom feel brand new.
Most hardware is standardized in size, so it's easy to match your new pieces with the holes already drilled into your cabinets. I recommend taking one of your current handles to the store for a perfect match, or order online using the same measurements.
All you need is a screwdriver and maybe a drill if you're changing the hole placement. Just be sure to keep the screws organized so you don’t mix them up mid-project!
Install Smart Thermostat
This is a favorite of my DIY home improvement ideas…
If you haven’t made the leap to a smart thermostat yet, now’s the perfect time. Not only do these devices look sleek on your wall, but they also help reduce energy bills and increase your home’s value.
I have a smart thermostat on my gas fireplace in my living room. The installation took less than an hour, and now I have a more efficient and convenient way of setting the temperature. Just make sure to turn off the power to your HVAC system before you begin. Most smart thermostats have an app-based setup that walks you through every step, and most models are designed for DIY installation.
The ability to control the temperature from your phone—and have it learn your habits—is something you won’t realize you needed until you have it. Total game-changer!
