You don’t need to gut your living space and invest in an expensive remodel to see a big improvement. Instead, introducing some more affordable adjustments can result in a significant lighting upgrade. Ultimately, you can transform your spaces effectively without calling an electrician or making a big mess.
Stay with us to learn about four budget-friendly lighting upgrades that will brighten your living spaces. We’ll unpack the installation process, costs, and safety considerations for each option.
1. Modernize Your Lights with LED Bulbs
If you still have incandescent bulbs or ugly fluorescent tubes, it’s time for an upgrade. Switching to LED bulbs is a simple and effective way to brighten your home and save money on energy costs. You can choose from warm or cool lights to set the right tone in your home. And with most LEDs, you’ll have the flexibility to dim your lights when you choose the right switch.
At around $5 per bulb, LEDs are a very affordable change when you don’t want to invest in remodeling. And all you have to do is screw in the bulb and, if desired, plug in a dimmer. Enjoy better, longer-lasting lights that use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Just be sure that you’re choosing a dimmable bulb if you’re using it with a dimmer switch.
2. Add a Custom LED Neon Sign or Shape
Remember that lighting can be decorative, too. When you’re trying to add a focal point to a room or simply add a splash of color and fun, you can’t go wrong with a custom LED neon shape or sign. The neon’s brilliant glow will be magnetic, and it will offer a unique statement piece on any wall. And while traditional glass neon was heavy and not exactly budget-friendly, newer LED neon is much more affordable and safer. For a small sign, expect to pay around $100. Bigger signs with sophisticated designs could cost a few hundred dollars.
Generally, LED neon signs are simple to handle, with pre-drilled panels that are easy to mount on most walls. In some cases, you may not even need to pick up a drill. Choose low-voltage neon options and make sure you’re not extending the sign’s cord too much. Learn more about custom LED neon signs here as you seek to brighten your living space!
3. Try Peel-and-Stick LED Strips
Does your kitchen look bland? Inject it with some intensity and functional lighting by installing peel-and-stick LED strip lights. These adhesive-backed lights are the perfect addition to shelves above your sink, and they look great underneath kitchen cabinets. Best of all, you won’t need to drill anything, making them perfect for apartments where you’re not able to do bigger renovations. And you won’t gouge your budget since a 12-foot strip is under $50.
Simply measure the length of the strip that you need, cut it with scissors, and attach it. It’s best to clean the area first, too, to ensure strong adhesion. And don’t bend the strips too much, since that could compromise the lighting. Thanks to the energy efficiency of LED lights, you won’t amass a larger utility bill when you keep these lights on for long stretches, too.
4. Introduce Plug-in Sconces for Polished Lighting
Make your home cozy instantly with the help of plug-in sconces. These light fixtures introduce a higher level of polish while providing gentle, indirect light in any room. While hardwired sconces can be budget-prohibitive, plug-in options are stylish and less expensive. Add a cord cover that matches your wall to create a crisp, clean look in your bedroom or hallway.
Sconces plus cover kits will range in price from roughly $50 to $150, and they’re relatively easy to install. You won’t need an electrician. You’ll just need a screwdriver and a steady hand to ensure you’re keeping the sconces level as you mount them. Be sure you have sturdy wall anchors that can support the fixture, as well. Once your lights are up, enjoy energy savings and enhanced ambiance!
Create a Bright and Inviting Home
You might not have the time, money, or interest to put money toward significant home renovations that brighten your interior. Fortunately, you don’t have to make a big financial commitment to create a home that’s brighter and more inviting. Switch to LED bulbs for a fast and efficient upgrade. Or line the underside of your kitchen cabinets with stick-and-peel lighting strips. Plug-in wall sconces or electrifying neon signs can make a dull room more engaging and inspiring. And you won’t have to chew up your weekend tackling the installation with any of these options.
Energy-efficient and cost-effective lighting upgrades can boost the look of your home. Make sure you follow all instructions and choose bulbs that are compatible with your hardware. Completing even a few changes can result in rooms that look brighter and refreshed!
