5 Home Improvement Projects You Can Do On a Budget

Up to 85% of homes in the U.S. built before 1980 are in need of some form of home improvement. But you don't necessarily need to spend thousands of dollars to give your home an upgrade. In fact, there are several ways you can make your home a safer, chicer place for you and your family without breaking your budget.

Upgrade your grout

Clean your dryer vents

Stain your countertop or cabinets

Change up your hardware (and make sure it matches)

Here are five home improvements you can do on a budget that won't leave you feeling disappointed that you didn't call a professional. 

Seal up cracks

Sealing up cracks in walls and floors with caulk, plaster, and spray foam insulation that you can get online or at the store can help solve a myriad of problems from heat loss to pest problems. Sealing up cracks can also help reduce the risk of high radon levels. About one in 15 U.S. homes is estimated to have radon levels above or at EPA action level, and basements are a prime culprit for elevated readings. 

Just strap on a pair of gloves, goggles, and put on a face mask to keep your skin, eyes, and airways safe from the chemicals and follow the directions on the back of the container.

Once you're done sealing up cracks in your walls and floors, you can also use caulking to give your bathroom an upgrade under $25. Over time, the caulking and grout around your sinks and bathtub can become cracked and dirty. Cut out the old caulk with a utility knife, clean the area, let it dry, and then apply new caulk for an instant facelift.

It's no secret that cleaning your dryer vents can be a real pain. Not only is it a lengthy process, but it can also be frustrating when the brush gets stuck. Fortunately, there's a more efficient way of cleaning your dryer vent without needing to pay someone to do it for you: compressed air. 

Using this tool under $10, you can get the lint out from your pipe in no time. What's more, while the U.S. is the number one largest producer of chemical products globally, compressed air isn't a chemical formula so you don't need to worry about breathing in any chemical residue.

Oftentimes when you see recommendations for budget-friendly home renovation projects, you'll see the recommendation to paint your cabinets. But painting isn't the only thing you can do to give your kitchen a facelift. 

If you have cabinets or a butcher block countertop that are a light wood color, you may be able to stain the wood to make it a darker brown. Just remember to go through the process step-by-step to ensure the stain holds and isn't streaky.

Changing up your home's hardware is a budget-friendly way to give your home an elevated look. However, what's even more important is to make sure your hardware matches throughout the house and that it functions properly. You want silver hardware if you have silver hinges, and gold hardware if you have gold hinges. When your hardware is uniform, it creates a cohesive look.

You don't need to spend a small fortune to improve your home. By following the tips above, you can give your family home a new and improved look without going over budget.