Handymen say these are the smartest home upgrades you can make under $35

Handymen-approved.

Handymen say these are the smartest home upgrades you can make under $35
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ByChristina Wood
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Finding a handyman to do small chores in your home is one of the hardest tasks you will face as you try to maintain your home. But you can’t ignore what your home needs until you find one. Fortunately, many home chores are easy and inexpensive. It’s all a matter of knowing what to do and what tools to keep on hand. We managed to find a few hard-working handymen to offer their best tips. Where to focus my energy? What can I do without much money? (And more.) Handymen say these are the smartest home upgrades you can make under $35.

01

Lay down these easy stepping stones

"One of the most impactful yet straightforward upgrades is to enhance your home's curb appeal with natural stone,” suggests Niall Lynchehaun, owner and director of Midland Stone. “Installing a stone veneer or using natural stone for pathways and landscaping can transform the exterior of your home.” This can be as easy as dropping these premade pavers onto the grass. They come in three shapes and are made from river rock. “It adds a timeless, elegant touch and instantly increases your home's perceived value,” he says.

02

Hang a set of geometric floating shelves

Lynchehaun also recommends incorporating floating shelves into your interior decor. “It’s a trendy and functional addition to any room,” he says. This set of geometric shelves group beautifully and each holds a plant or piece of art. “ These provide extra storage space for displaying decor, books, or personal items while adding a modern touch to your home. You can install them in the living room, bedroom, or even the bathroom."

03

Put up these floating ledges to display art & pictures

These photo ledge floating shelves are a great option for displaying framed art along with small pieces of sculpture, candles, or plants. They mount to the wall and provide a slender ledge to set things on. They come in four colors.

04

Refresh your kitchen cabinets with some paint

"A kitchen cabinet refresh is yet another easy DIY project,” says Lynchehaun. “After all, you don't always need a full kitchen remodel — a budget-friendly approach to this issue would be to just repaint or refinish your kitchen cabinets." It’s easy to do with this Country Chic paint that comes in so many colors. It has the primer and top coat built in so all you have to do is get out a brush and start painting. And the chalk finish is super forgiving.

05

Refinish any wood furniture that has seen better days

To give a little shine or TLC to old or unpainted wood counters, cabinets, and floors, this cabinet and table restorer may be all you need. Wipe it over dry, faded, scuffed, and tired wood and watch as that same wood starts to shine. It cleans stains and dirt and feeds the wood with a deep drink of mineral oil. And it smells like almonds!

06

Swap in modern cabinet knobs

Once you refresh the finish, "pair this with updated hardware, such as modern handles or knobs, for a fresh look,” says Lynchehaun. These cabinet knobs with a brushed gold finish bring a modern look to these highly visible touchpoints. “I've seen homeowners achieve a remarkable transformation with this simple update," he says.

07

Upgrade the hardware on your cabinets & doors

"Inexpensive or fragile door hardware may take away from the overall aesthetic of your home,” agrees Matt DiBara CEO of The Contractor Consultants and CEO of DiBara Masonry. “To improve the look and feel of your doors and create a more polished appearance, replace your door handles or knobs with more durable and fashionable ones." These black square bar cabinet knobs are solid and architectural. They will give you a solid hold on cabinets and drawers while imparting a look of durability to the room. They come in three colors.

08

Swap out the knobs on your doors

This flat, round, solid, and modern door knob is a quick update to the look of your interior. The black matte finish adds sophistication and feels good in your hand. It is available, too, in polished chrome, satin brass, and satin nickel if you are trying to match the modern look to an existing color scheme. The square base is edgy but a round one is also available.

09

Add motion-sensing lights under cabinets & in stairways

"Using LED under-cabinet lighting is a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to the home to illuminate the kitchen countertops or workspace,” suggests DiBara. Stick these wireless motion sensor LED lights to stair risers, inside closets, to the underside of shelves, and under your kitchen cabinets to illuminate counter workspaces. “It improves functionality as well as ambiance,” he says.

10

Put these LED puck lights anywhere you need extra light

This six-pack of LED lights makes it so easy to create pools of light precisely where you need them. They peel and stick to any surface, turn on with a tap, can be controlled all at once with a remote, and allow you to set a duration for them to stay on and then turn off automatically. They come with batteries, adhesive mounts, and screws.

11

Declutter & organize with this hanging closet organizer

"Invest in storage containers, hooks, or shelving systems to assist in decluttering and organizing the space,” suggests DiBara. These hanging closet organizers, for example, put shelves in your closet to make it easier to put away sweaters and items that don’t hang. “This might make the home appear larger and more functional,” he says.

12

Bring organization & order to any space with these clear bins

Set these plastic storage bins on closet shelves or in the pantry to gather together difficult-to-store items into categories. They hold quite a lot and you can see right into them so nothing will get lost. They have integrated handles for easy loading and unloading.

13

Maximize space & storage to eliminate clutter

To declutter and add organization, try adding these space-saving hangers to your rig, which increase the carrying capacity of your closet. Each one holds five hangers. This takes advantage of vertical space while freeing up some horizontal room. This is a four-pack so it will open up quite a bit of space.

14

Invest in storage that looks chic

The strategic use of this rope storage basket — at the foot of the bed, in a corner of the living room, and in the bathroom — makes it easy to keep your rooms tidy without finding storage for the things you use often. Just toss toys, laundry, or pillows into them. They come in seven colors and four sizes to fit every look and use case you can imagine.

15

Stick these adhesive hooks on your walls to get things off your floors

In keeping with DiBara’s advice to add hooks, these adhesive wall hooks will get clutter off the counters and couches, too. You can peel-and-stick them to an entryway, bathroom, child’s room, or the back of a door so you have a spot to hang a bathrobe, towel, or hat exactly where you want to set those things down. This is a four-pack.

16

Swap in smart plugs that turn your appliances smart

"Electricians suggest using smart plugs to transform ordinary appliances into smart gadgets,” says DiBara. This two-pack of Kasa Smart Wi-Fi plugs is a great choice. “They may be remotely controlled via smartphone applications or voice assistants. This is particularly helpful for lights, fans, and coffee machines."

17

Put weatherstripping in your door and window frames

"Carpenters and construction workers emphasize the importance of energy efficiency,” explains DiBara. “Upgrading weather stripping and installing door seals is a low-cost technique to boost insulation and reduce energy costs." It’s so simple to do, too: Peel and stick this weatherstrip tape to the inside of the door and window frames.

18

Protect your space from drafts & energy loss

If there are gaps under your doors, use this under door draft stopper to put an end to that wasteful leak of air conditioning and heat. It will keep bugs and dirt out, too. Cut it to fit and stick it to the door in seconds. It comes in four colors and sizes.

19

Freshen up your grout

"An easy upgrade that makes a remarkable difference is for you to paint your grout lines using a grout colorant,” says Thomas Borcherding, home remodeler and designer with Homestar. These chalk markers, for instance, are easy to work with and not messy. Simply color over the old, dirty grout for a fast refresh. “You can revitalize any room featuring tile,” he says.

20

Scrub your grout clean to freshen up your tile

This power scrubber is another way to get grout clean fast. It spins quickly so you don’t have to work so hard. Once you have it in your hand, you will use it for everything from the grout to the faucets to the fiddly bits on the stove.

21

Replace the weatherstripping on your garage door

"Replace weatherstripping at the bottom of garage doors,” says Borcherding. “Unknown to most homeowners [there] is a track at the bottom of garage doors that features a removable weather stripping. These get worn out over time and can allow not only air infiltration but also rodents and insects into your home. Simply slide the weatherstripping out of its track, and insert a new one for better home insulation and protection against pests!” This weatherstripping kit is easy to use and comes in a bunch of different lengths to match any garage door length.

22

Use paintable caulk to hide imperfections and seal small gaps

"Perhaps one of the easiest yet most powerful things a homeowner can do is to utilize paintable caulk in their home,” says Borcherding. This siliconized acrylic caulk is the top choice of nearly 900 Amazon reviewers. “Caulk is a carpenter's best friend, and this is due to the fact that it can hide imperfections and drastically improve the aesthetic of a home,” he says.

23

Have paint on hand to touch-up scuffs or paint caulk

If you keep some of the paint you used to cover your walls and trim in these brush pens, painting over that caulk — or any scratches, dings, or chips — is so easy you can do it at the first sign of wear or damage. They fill like a syringe and keep the paint fresh for years. Just pull one out and paint over the problem area in seconds.

24

Lay new caulk where it’s needed

And to follow Borcherding’s advice, you’ll need the right tools. Your caulking projects will all go more easily with this three-in-one caulk tool in hand. A stainless steel blade and plastic scraper on one end make it fast and easy to remove old caulk. Then flip it around and use the silicone triangle to smooth a new line of caul.

25

Swap in USB-compatible outlets

"Ditch charging blocks by upgrading your home's electrical outlets to ones that allow for the insert of both USB-A and USB-C charging cables,” says Borcherding. This USB outlet will make your electrical outlets ready for now and for the future by replacing your old plugs with two standard plugs, two USB ports, and one USB-C plug.

“Working with electrical is always dangerous,” he says. “But it's nothing that a dedicated homeowner can't accomplish by themselves. Be sure to flip the correct circuit breaker, and to test your outlet for electrical current prior to working on your home's electrical." Consult with your electrician to accomplish this swap, if you feel this is above your skill level.

26

Or plug in this outlet extender for USB access

Another less labor-intensive way to implement Borcherding’s advice, is with an outlet extender that plugs into an old-style outlet. It secures with a single screw in the center and requires no electrical work. It turns one outlet into five standard plugs, three USB ports, and one USB-C plug. It comes in black and white.

27

Install this gutter guard to protect it from clogs

Josh Riutta, owner of Mikku and Sons Roofing, says that, when it comes to your roof, “Regular maintenance is crucial.” Start by addressing the gutters. Install this gutter guard to keep leaves, pine cones, squirrels, and other acts of nature from clogging them up. “A clogged gutter can lead to water damage requiring roof repairs,” he says. “Addressing minor issues promptly prevents them from snowballing into expensive problems."

28

Seal your windows & doors to prevent AC & heat from escaping

"Seal air leaks around windows and doors,” says Riutta. This will prevent heat and air conditioning from escaping and save money on your energy bill. It will also keep insects and vermin out of your interior spaces. This weather-sealing tape is all you need to accomplish this. Tape over gaps and drafts with it. It is hardly noticeable visually but will make your home much more comfortable.

29

Switch to LED bulbs in all of your light fixtures

The simple act of changing a light bulb can save you money if you think about the future when you do it. "Upgrade to LED light bulbs,” says Riutta. They draw very little power so they will lower your energy costs. And they last for ages so you don’t have to replace them as often. This six-pack looks just like the incandescent ones in your lamps but will save you so much money in the long run.

30

Insulate your attic door

Riutta suggests that you look up. That attic space might be costing you money. “Weatherize your attic to reduce heating and cooling costs,” he says. This attic stairway insulation cover is a great way to stop your money from escaping through that pull-down staircase that leads to your attic. Staple it to the doorframe and it creates an insulating barrier.

31

Put a leak sensor near pipes & water heaters

One leaky faucet can cause enormous damage if it is allowed to keep leaking. "Leaking faucets, dripping pipes, or minor roof issues should be addressed promptly,” says Riutta. “Ignoring them can lead to significant water damage and expensive repairs later." You can’t fix what you don’t know about, though. So install this water sensor anywhere there is a water source you don’t look at often. Put one under the sink, below the water heater, or anywhere a leak might go unnoticed — especially if you plan to travel. It will alert you, via your phone, if there is water where it shouldn’t be.

32

Use smart power strips to control your energy usage

Many electronics draw power, even when they are turned off. You pay for that power. But you don’t have to. "Automatically shut off power to electronics when not in use,” says Riutta, “reducing energy waste." You can automate this by plugging everything into this smart power strip and setting schedules for when those devices get power. You can control three of the plugs separately but the USB ports always get power for charging phones and batteries.

33

Fill gaps in doors, windows, & tile with this silicone sealant

"Filling gaps around windows, doors, and other openings prevents air leaks and drafts," says Riutta. Use this silicone sealant around the bath, windows, doors, plumbing, counters, and more. It takes only 30 minutes to dry and lasts for a long time, even in wet environments.

34

Switch to a programmable thermostat

"(A programmable thermostat) allows for regulating room temperature efficiently, reducing energy consumption,” Riutta. You can splurge for a smart thermostat but that’s not necessary. This programmable thermostat is affordable and lets you set the heat and air conditioning to match your routines so the house is cooler while you sleep, runs on the bare minimum while you are away, and is comfortable when you get home.

35

Clear your gutters to protect your roof

"Regular cleaning of gutters, servicing HVAC systems, and checking for signs of wear and tear can prevent costly replacements down the line,” says Riutta. This is all easier if you have the right tools. This gutter scoop, for example, makes getting debris out of your gutters so much easier since it is sized to slide right into them. The high handle keeps your hands from getting scratched up.

36

Regularly change your HVAC filters

These vent filters trap dust pollen smoke and other allergens to keep your home cleaner and reduce the load on your HVAC unit. It’s simple to deploy. Just cut it to size and tape it over the front of your vents. It comes with the perfect tape for the task.

37

Have filters for your HVAC on hand

Keeping spare furnace air filters on hand is a good idea, too. Set a reminder to change those filters every quarter or whatever the manufacturer recommends so your HVAC unit doesn’t have to work hard to pull air through clogged filters. Or put this four-pack on Subscribe & Save and let Amazon remind you.

38

Cover your AC to prevent it from clogging or being damaged

If your AC unit is outdoors, make sure you protect it with this air conditioner cover. It keeps leaves, bugs, squirrels, and other items from getting caught in the unit so you don’t have to pay to have it serviced because a squirrel got the bright idea to store some snacks in there.

39

Monitor your appliances’ electricity usage & swap in Energy Star models

"Investing in energy-efficient appliances and fixtures can also lead to significant savings on utility bills over time,” says Ryan Vaughn, owner of SD Epoxy Floors. Decide which appliances are your hungriest by tracking their power intake with this electricity usage monitor. Plug an appliance into it and its big readout tells you how much power — and money — it sucks down. When shopping for replacements, says Vaughn, “Look for products with the Energy Star label."

40

DIY minor repairs around your house with a tool kit

"Another tip is to DIY simple projects like painting or minor repairs instead of hiring professionals,” says Vaughn. So many household tasks are simple to execute with a few inexpensive tools and a YouTube video. This tool set has all the basics and comes in an easy-to-carry and store case. “Just make sure you're comfortable and safe doing the work,” he says.