7 Tips For Renovating Kitchens In 2016

After another year of preparing holiday meals in your old-fashioned kitchen, consider these 7 tips for renovating kitchens in 2016 to help make your job easier and more fun.

A Fresher Kitchen in 2016 on Any Budget

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The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home because it is where all the meals are prepared. Some people also use the kitchen table for paying bills, doing homework and working on creative projects. As a result, kitchens get a lot of traffic and start to show signs of wear and tear in just a few years. If your kitchen is starting to look tired, consider these 7 tips for renovating kitchens in 2016.

1. A Fresh Coat of Paint

If you're on a budget, a fresh coat of paint goes a long way. Grease splatters and sauce spots on the wall can become impossible to wipe clean. A coat of paint covers up these imperfections and gives the kitchen a fast face-lift.

2. Refresh the Floors and Rugs

Everyone stomps through the kitchen, looking for snacks and making food all throughout the day. Refresh the floors by replacing cracked or broken tiles. Update threadbare throw rugs that could be a hazard.

3. Replace the Backsplash

As the name indicates, a backsplash is where splatters often land when you cook. Over time, it can become grimy and look unattractive. It is a quick fix to update the backsplash for a cleaner look.

4. Get Energy Efficient Appliances

If you have appliances from over a decade ago, you are wasting energy and paying more for utilities than you should. Look for Energy Star appliances to help you save money. Plus, new appliances make your kitchen appear more modern. Schedule a home energy audit to find out more ways to save energy and save money over time.

5. Replace the Windows

Kitchen windows get used constantly to air out the room and let light in on sunny days. The windowsills are often a spot where plants and herbs are grown. If your windows are starting to get drafty with dirty windowsills, swap out the old windows for energy efficient new ones.

6. Clear Out Clutter

Expired food in the cabinets and rusty pans lurking in the pantry make your kitchen cramped and inefficient. Take an hour to clear out all the stuff you do not need or use. It creates more space and make it simple to find what you need on hectic days. Give the kitchen a thorough cleaning to make it smell and look inviting.

7. Update the Counters and Cabinets

If the cabinets look dull, they might need to be cleaned, refinished or painted. Counters that are chipped or nicked should be replaced. It might only mean doing a small section of the kitchen to make it look better. Talk to a contractor about small projects and how to approach larger renovations so they fit into your budget and schedule.

Even if those on a tight budget can improve the kitchen by getting rid of old stuff, adding updated throw rugs and painting the walls. Plus, an updated kitchen adds value to your entire home.