Home Improvement
Made Simple

A budget bathroom renovation runs $3,000–$7,000 focusing on cosmetic updates like paint, fixtures, and flooring. A mid-range remodel costs $8,000–$15,000 including a new vanity, tile, and possibly tub replacement. A high-end gut renovation can reach $15,000–$35,000+ with custom tile, heated floors, and premium fixtures. Location significantly affects costs — urban areas typically run 20–30% higher.

Absolutely. Modern click-lock laminate flooring is specifically designed for DIY installation. You'll need basic tools (tapping block, pull bar, saw, spacers) and a level subfloor. Most rooms can be completed in 1–2 weekends. The key is proper preparation: acclimate planks for 48 hours, ensure the subfloor is clean and level, and always leave ¼-inch expansion gaps around the perimeter.

One gallon of paint covers approximately 350 square feet. For a standard 12×12 room with 8-foot ceilings: the wall area is about 384 sq ft, minus ~15% for windows and doors = ~326 sq ft. You'd need about 1 gallon per coat, so 2 gallons for two coats. Always buy slightly more than calculated — it's easier to return an unopened gallon than to try matching a color mid-project. Use our Painting Cost Estimator above for a precise calculation.

It depends on the scope. Generally, you do NOT need permits for: painting, flooring, replacing fixtures, minor repairs, landscaping, or cosmetic updates. You DO typically need permits for: structural changes (removing walls), electrical work beyond replacing outlets, plumbing changes (adding/moving fixtures), building a deck, adding a room, or roofing. Always check with your local building department — requirements vary by jurisdiction. Building without required permits can result in fines and complications when selling your home.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is the top choice for kitchens in 2026 — it's waterproof, durable, comfortable underfoot, and comes in convincing wood and stone looks for $3–$7/sq ft. Ceramic or porcelain tile is the most durable option ($3–$8/sq ft) but is harder on feet and requires grout maintenance. Standard laminate works for kitchens if you choose water-resistant versions with sealed edges, but avoid it near dishwashers where leaks are common.

The easiest method is an electronic stud finder ($15–$30) — slide it along the wall and it beeps when it detects a stud. For a free method: studs are typically 16 inches apart (sometimes 24"). Find one stud by looking for electrical outlets (they're almost always mounted on a stud), then measure 16" in each direction. You can also knock on the wall — a hollow sound means no stud, a solid thud means you've found one. Confirm by driving a small nail through the drywall.

Repair if: the structure (posts, beams, joists) is sound, only surface boards are damaged, and less than 25% of decking needs replacement. Replace if: you can push a screwdriver into posts or joists (rot), the deck is visibly sagging, connections are loose or corroded, or it's over 20 years old with extensive damage. A structural inspection by a contractor ($100–$200) is worth the peace of mind if you're unsure.

For immediate visual impact: painting ($100–$300 per room). For ROI when selling: landscaping and curb appeal (5–12% value increase). For long-term savings: attic insulation (10–50% energy savings, pays for itself in 1–3 years). For overall best investment: a minor kitchen or bathroom refresh — updating hardware, fixtures, and paint for under $1,000 can return 3–5x that in perceived value.

Asphalt shingles (the most common): 20–30 years. Architectural shingles: 25–35 years. Metal roofing: 40–70 years. Clay or concrete tile: 50–100 years. Slate: 75–150 years. Warning signs that replacement is needed: curling, cracking, or missing shingles; granules in gutters; daylight visible through the attic; multiple leaks; or the roof is within 5 years of its expected lifespan. Annual inspections catch small problems before they become expensive emergencies.

Building from scratch is usually 30–50% cheaper than pre-built for the same quality: a DIY 10×12 shed costs $1,500–$3,000 in materials versus $3,000–$6,000 pre-built and delivered. However, pre-built saves 3–5 weekends of labor. A middle ground: buy a shed kit ($1,500–$4,000) that includes pre-cut materials and detailed instructions — you get the savings of DIY with simpler construction.

The essential starter kit: cordless drill/driver, tape measure, level, hammer, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, pliers, utility knife, stud finder, and a flashlight. Total investment: $150–$300 for quality tools. Add a circular saw when you're ready for bigger projects. Always buy the best quality you can afford for your drill and saw — they're workhorses you'll use for decades.

Squeaks are caused by floorboards rubbing against each other or against nails. For accessible subfloor (from below): have someone walk above while you identify the squeak, then drive screws through the subfloor into the finished floor to pull them tight. For no access below: drive trim screws through the finished floor into the joist at a slight angle, then fill the hole. For carpet: use a Squeeeeek-No-More kit ($25) that drives a scored screw through carpet that snaps off below the surface.

Score the wallpaper with a scoring tool (Paper Tiger, $8), then apply a wallpaper removal solution or a mix of hot water and fabric softener with a spray bottle. Let it soak for 15 minutes, then scrape with a wide putty knife at a 30-degree angle. For stubborn paper, a wallpaper steamer rental ($20–$40/day) is the nuclear option. After removal, wash walls with TSP, skim coat any damage with joint compound, sand smooth, and prime before painting.

In order of impact-per-dollar: (1) Air seal your home — caulk and foam around windows, doors, pipes, and wiring penetrations ($50–$200). (2) Add attic insulation to R-38+ ($500–$2,000). (3) Install a smart thermostat ($100–$250, saves $130–$180/year). (4) Switch to LED bulbs throughout ($2–$5 each, saves $75+/year). (5) Upgrade to an Energy Star water heater when yours fails ($800–$2,500). Start with a home energy audit to identify your biggest opportunities — many utilities offer these free.

Always hire a pro for: main electrical panel work, gas line modifications, structural changes (load-bearing walls), roofing (steep or multi-story), HVAC installation, asbestos or lead paint removal, and major plumbing (sewer line, water main). DIY-friendly projects include: painting, laminate/vinyl flooring, basic plumbing fixes, landscaping, insulation, smart home installation, tile backsplash, and cosmetic updates. The rule of thumb: if a mistake could injure someone, cause major water/fire damage, or violate code, call a pro.