For the longest time, because we had no other choice, our home was basically making do with the bare minimum, but now, I am really appreciative that I have a home that makes me happy, aesthetically as well as phyiscally. Here's some tips from a reader on how to make your home more comfortable, affordably.
Nothing is quite like spending a quiet evening inside with the family, but you won't find a larger buzzkill than being stuck inside a house that's too hot or cold or is in need of a new look. Unfortunately, the costs of a complete renovation can add up quickly. The good news is that some creative ways exist to make a space more enjoyable for you and your family. Consider the following affordable tricks for a comfortable home.
Add Affordable Accents
You don't need to give your home a complete facelift to make it feel like a new house. Simply refreshing a few outdated features can perk up a room. Adding a pop of color to a room can make the space feel extra cozy. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint in a rich, warm tone costs only a few dollars and is a great way to update a space. Other ways to add color and make a room feel more comfortable include covering furniture in pillows and throws made from cuddly fabrics such as velvet, chenille, suede, and faux fur.
A bouquet of fresh-cut flowers, a small potted plant, or a few pine branch accents can add a warm, welcoming aroma to any room. Alternatively, try simmering a pot of cloves, cinnamon, and other spices on the stovetop to fill a room with a scent that costs only a few cents.
Seal Gaps and Ducts
Cold drafts from old windows and doors or outdated heating systems can wreak havoc on a house, and the costs of replacing them can significantly impact your budget. But plenty of budget-friendly solutions exist. Cover hardwood floors with area rugs or hang curtains or tapestries over windows and exterior walls to help keep out cold drafts.
Another way to warm up a room is to seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors with weather-stripping or caulking. Doing some maintenance on your ductwork can go a long way to keep in the heat and improve energy efficiency.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an affordable way to regulate the temperature of a room regardless of the season. In the summer, they can help keep your house cool when the weather outside heats up and make the most of your air conditioning unit by circulating the cold air.
Did you know ceiling fans can also help spread the warm air around a room in the winter? Simply reverse the direction of the blades to send cold air toward the ceiling and force the hot air back down.
Batten Down the Hatches
When they're not in use, be sure all windows and doors are locked. Securing these openings creates a tight seal that keeps out any unwanted hot or cold air. During the winter, cold outdoor air can cause a stir when it mixes with the warm air inside the house. The combination creates condensation on the windows, which can freeze and become frost.
Creating a cozy space where your family can play a game or watch a movie is easier and friendlier on your budget than you may think. The ideas above are only a few of the many affordable tricks you can use to create a comfortable home.
If you don't have the time or don't feel comfortable pulling off an interior painting project, check out Get Assist to find an affordable professional in your area.
See my disclaimer.
Nothing is quite like spending a quiet evening inside with the family, but you won't find a larger buzzkill than being stuck inside a house that's too hot or cold or is in need of a new look. Unfortunately, the costs of a complete renovation can add up quickly. The good news is that some creative ways exist to make a space more enjoyable for you and your family. Consider the following affordable tricks for a comfortable home.
Add Affordable Accents
 |
| Image via Flickr by sonjalovas |
A bouquet of fresh-cut flowers, a small potted plant, or a few pine branch accents can add a warm, welcoming aroma to any room. Alternatively, try simmering a pot of cloves, cinnamon, and other spices on the stovetop to fill a room with a scent that costs only a few cents.
Seal Gaps and Ducts
Cold drafts from old windows and doors or outdated heating systems can wreak havoc on a house, and the costs of replacing them can significantly impact your budget. But plenty of budget-friendly solutions exist. Cover hardwood floors with area rugs or hang curtains or tapestries over windows and exterior walls to help keep out cold drafts.
Another way to warm up a room is to seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors with weather-stripping or caulking. Doing some maintenance on your ductwork can go a long way to keep in the heat and improve energy efficiency.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an affordable way to regulate the temperature of a room regardless of the season. In the summer, they can help keep your house cool when the weather outside heats up and make the most of your air conditioning unit by circulating the cold air.
Did you know ceiling fans can also help spread the warm air around a room in the winter? Simply reverse the direction of the blades to send cold air toward the ceiling and force the hot air back down.
Batten Down the Hatches
When they're not in use, be sure all windows and doors are locked. Securing these openings creates a tight seal that keeps out any unwanted hot or cold air. During the winter, cold outdoor air can cause a stir when it mixes with the warm air inside the house. The combination creates condensation on the windows, which can freeze and become frost.
Creating a cozy space where your family can play a game or watch a movie is easier and friendlier on your budget than you may think. The ideas above are only a few of the many affordable tricks you can use to create a comfortable home.
If you don't have the time or don't feel comfortable pulling off an interior painting project, check out Get Assist to find an affordable professional in your area.
See my disclaimer.