Sometimes in the process of building, buying, or renovating a home, we make sacrifices on things that we want in order to accomplish everything that’s essential. Luxuries like accent elements, decorative treatments, and optional features are often the first to go. And although we’re glad to balance the checkbook, it’s only afterward that we regret the loss of these amenities that would help emphasize the style and personality of our home.
So when it comes to windows, for example, what’s a homeowner to do if you can’t afford the luxury of custom-designed panes fitted especially for every unique inch of your home? Well, thankfully there are some ways that you can set about upgrading your windows to achieve that elegant aesthetic without all the dollar signs that usually accompany high-end additions.
Get On The Grid
If your windows didn’t come with grids, there’s no need to fret. Custom-made inserts are a much more affordable option to achieve that same look of quality and dimension that gridded windows have, without all the hassle of replacing your existing windows with expensive new ones. And if custom still sounds too pricey for your budget, there are even some DIY options that can accommodate champagne tastes on a beer budget.
One example? Check out the step-by-step instructions (along with before and after pictures) over at Remodelaholic to see how just adding grids to your windows can make a world of difference. And that’s only one option – depending on your creativity (and handiness with power tools), the world is your oyster when it comes to dressing up those window panes.
Blinded By The Shade
Windows are such a versatile amenity in any home – they offer beautiful natural light, open to circulate fresh air, and can make a great first impression from the outside when decorated and trimmed to make the home feel cozy and inviting. But just because your windows are transparent doesn’t mean they have to be a constant opening into your day-to-day life.
Installing blinds or shades can be a great way to bolster the privacy of your home, and show off your style by coordinating with the décor. As an added bonus, these window treatments can also cut down on your energy bill by preventing excess heat during peak daytime hours in the summer and insulating against winter’s chill by adding another layer between your home’s interior and the outside world.
Don’t Replace, Reface
Changing out the interior (and exterior) facing of your windows – namely the trim – can eliminate the need to shell out the big bucks on a costly replacement. Instead of removing and reinstalling the entire frame of the window, you can simply replace the wooden trim, add some beveled molding, and throw on a fresh coat of paint. Once you’re finished, give the glass a good scrub and then… voila! Your windows are looking as good as new, for a fraction of the cost of replacing the whole thing.