Last month, we discussed which home improvement projects have the most "bang for your buck."  Kitchens are a place where most homeowners are willing to spend some money.  But, what if the budget's tight?  Most kitchens can benefit from even just one or two small changes, simply to make it look fresh again. Here are some ways that you can do this in a very cost-effective manner:

• Update Small Appliances - Keep all of your counter top appliances such as your coffeemaker, toaster and blender all in the same finish. Coordinating these very visible things really makes a big difference in the orderliness of your kitchen’s look.
• Window treatments - Don’t forget to add or update the treatments on your kitchen’s windows as they really can pull the whole design of your kitchen together, as well as add shade or privacy when needed.
• Lighting Fixtures - Get rid of that tired old 1980’s ceiling fixture in exchange for a pretty chandelier or a row of chic pendants, and try not to smile every time you enter your “new” kitchen!
• New Counter tops - Instead of an entire renovation, consider replacing just one thing. Your counter tops. You will be amazed at the variety of what is available now and at the incredible range of prices too. Counter tops remain one of the few things that will actually help sell a home.
• Paint - Whether you really need to or not, who doesn’t love the look of freshly painted walls in a new color?
• Under-Cabinet Lights - Easy to install puck lights are the way to go on this one.
• Sink Faucet - So many beautiful models to choose from and most of the new models can save you money on water and energy costs to boot.
• Cabinet Hardware - Changing cabinet hardware just so happens to be the easiest way to update your kitchen. Imagine simple nickel cabinet pulls in place of the dated ceramic ones you currently have. See what I mean? 

In the market for new carpet for your St. Louis home?  If you are interested in carpeting your St. Louis home or just specific areas in your home, it pays to know what is available and what will work best for your home before you go to the store. This way you can narrow down your search and save time, as there are nearly limitless choices when it comes to carpeting. Before we list carpet types and their attributes, be aware that carpeting your stairway will generally cost between six and nine dollars per step. If you prefer a carpet runner, this cost will be significantly higher. In regards to padding, it does extend the life of your carpeting and increases the overall comfort factor. It is completely worth the investment! Always replace your old padding with a new one, because carpeting manufacturers will not honor their warranty with an old pad underneath their new carpeting.

• Plush/Cut-Pile Carpet - Saxony plush is very popular because it is soft with short tufts. It does not wear as well as berber or other high level loop carpets.
• Berber - Has a high-level loop with a nubby texture. It wears very well, although is harder to clean.
• Wool - The most expensive type, but it is comfortable, durable and resistant to dirt. Direct sunlight can fade it.
• Synthetic fiber - It is made of artificial materials. Mostly made of nylon, it is cheaper than wool and is durable. Sunlight can damage it.
• Olefin - Cheap, but less durable than nylon. It is pre-treated to resist fading, but can be damaged by heat and sun. It is a very good choice for basements.
• Acrylics - More expensive than nylon, but more closely resembles wool and it resists fading.
• Sisal - A natural fiber derived from the cactus plant. It is very strong and durable, but is extremely rough in texture.