Home improvement tips come in any number of categories, but design figures toward the top of the list. A paint job alone works wonders. Of all the home improvement tips out there, it might be the easiest and most dramatic. If you're willing to tackle the job yourself, it's probably the least expensive as well. You can have a new room altogether if you combine a paint scheme, throw pillows, new upholstery or slipcovers, and new curtains. Perhaps you're thinking more boldly than this, however.

Home Improvement Tips: the Fireplace

You might have always wanted a fireplace. Maybe you don't have an existing chimney and can't add one. If so, a vent-free fireplace might be your answer. Not all states allow them, however. You'll need to check with a fireplace professional and your homeowners' insurance provider to find out if a vent-free fireplace is in fact an option. An electric fireplace is another possibility. A fireplace--without question--adds character and value to your house.

If you already have a fireplace, one of the home improvement tips you might not have thought of is replacing the mantel. You'll be amazed at the transformation. A fireplace is, after all, the focal point of a room unless you work hard to understate it. Changing its effect might be as simple as a paint job if the surround and mantel are brick or wood. If it's brick, wash it with a 50-50 vinegar-water solution, then prime, and only then paint.

The real fun comes when you replace the mantelpiece, or install a new one. Given the wide variety of styles available, you're limited only by your imagination. Design ideas include a cobblestone facing for a rustic look, art deco for a contemporary one, and colored tile for a European flair. Take your time and enjoy the process!