How to Update a Bathroom on a Small Budget

When the economy is tough and house prices are down it can force home owners to stay in their homes longer. Updating an old bathroom can make staying more bearable but who has the money for a complete bathroom overhaul? Instead, why not give your bathroom an update? This can be done on even the smallest of budgets, and here is how. Not all of these updates will need to be done in your bathroom and they do not have to be done all at once. Do what you can slowly and you will see your bathroom transformed on a budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Neutral Paint
• Paint supplies
• Vinyl Tile
• Light Fixture
• Shower curtain
• Towels

1. Paint the walls. Paint is by far one of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform a room. A fresh coat of semi-gloss paint can instantly brighten and refresh and old bathroom. Choose a neutral color so you will not have to repaint when it comes time to sell.

2. If your flooring is looking shabby why not install some inexpensive vinyl tiles? These can be very inexpensive (as little as .39 cents a sq. ft.), and can often be installed right over your old flooring. Use coupons at one of the big box home improvement stores to save even more!!

3. Refinish or replace your old light fixture. If your light fixture is still in good shape but is an ugly color, you can "refinish" it with a $3 can of metallic spray paint and some new shades. If you aren't lucky enough to have a good light fixture to work with you can still find beautiful light fixtures for under $30. Just remember to keep future buyers in mind when you make your selection.

4. If your bathroom vanity is too ugly to look at, consider painting it rather than replacing it. White, brown, and black are all classic colors that will go with almost anything and can transform even the ugliest of vanities. Just make sure to do the proper prep work so your finish will last.

5. Get a new shower curtain and towels. If nothing else you can make your bathroom feel new with nothing more than fabric. This is there you can go bold. Reds, greens, and blues are all fair game. Even if you are scared, try something bold. What is the worst that can happen? You return it. You might find this is all your bathroom really needs to make you fall it love with it again.

Resources

• Save Money at Lowe's and Home Depot

[starlet67]

on 7/11/2009 great renovation ideas for the bath!5*