| You can save thousands of dollars on a renovation if | | | | over. You will need to ask your paint shop for and |
| you are prepared to do some research and ask | | | | specialised primer to paint on first so that your paint |
| questions of the right people. Here are 9 tips that will | | | | sticks. One such product is called ESP |
| save you money. | | | | 5. In many older homes there are metal laundry tubs. |
| 1. Use eBay to search and buy items such as locks, | | | | These can be easily and quickly refurbished. Sand off |
| taps, vanity basins, toilet suits etc. The savings can be | | | | the rust, fill any rust holes and then spray the tubs with |
| considerable. You will need to be clear on what you | | | | a white rust inhibiting enamel paint. Just mask carefully |
| want and the specifications you require. | | | | and use drops sheets to avoid a difficult to clean up |
| PS Always ensure the seller has a good eBay | | | | mess. Do several light coats to avoid runs. |
| reputation. Previous buyers will have rated the service. | | | | 6. The same process can be used to improve metal |
| 2. Don't paint ceilings if you can avoid it. Perhaps just | | | | fans and light fittings. |
| the kitchen or bathroom if necessary. | | | | 7. If you need to employ trade labour, then use the |
| 3. Buy paint seconds and leftover's and blend the pots | | | | grey army. There are many retired or semi retired |
| to create your colour. It is best to stick with neutral | | | | highly skilled tradespeople who will do a good job at a |
| colours as they rarely offend, but bright colours whilst | | | | good price. |
| you may love them are not to everyone's taste. | | | | 8. Instead of replacing old weathered doors, give them |
| I wanted an avocado feature wall in a house we built | | | | a makeover instead. I recently did this for a friend. She |
| for sale. I'm glad my wife talked me out of it because | | | | was going to pay $1200 for a set of new double |
| the buyers commented that they liked the off white | | | | doors which would still have to be fitted and treated, at |
| and couldn't stand those bright modern colours. They | | | | extra cost. All up an estimated $1600 |
| did cover up the beautiful timer floor which I laboured | | | | 9. Instead I sanded back the doors with an orbital |
| over, with carpet! We can never account for the taste | | | | sander and some hand sanding in the corners. I gave |
| of others, best to play it safe. | | | | the doors 4 coats of a quality gloss deck preparation, |
| 3. Kitchen and vanity bench tops can be bought online | | | | with a light sand in between coats. Total cost $350. |
| and second hand. It is remarkable what some people | | | | The doors look fantastic. |
| will discard just for the sake of a change. Keep in | | | | PS The decking preparation is much better wearing |
| touch with your local kitchen makers, as occasionally a | | | | than the standard estapol. If you are going to remain in |
| financial crisis on the part of an owner or builder can | | | | the house it is well worth giving the doors a quick sand |
| leave them with stock that they will need to liquidate. | | | | and a fresh coat every year, especially if the doors |
| 4. Old tiles and laminated surfaces can be painted | | | | are exposed to rain or direct sunlight. |