Home Makeovers That Won’t Break The Bank (NAPSA)—Giving yourself a new home—at the old address— maybe a lot easier than you realize. Countless projects don’t even require a hammer. “People today have the confidence and passion to tackle projects on their own. A few simple fixups can really enhance the way someone feels about their home,” said Lou Manfredini, known as Mr. Fix-It on the “TODAY Show” and author of the book “House Smarts.” Here are some easy and cost effective suggestions: Ten Minute Touch-Up:Painting is the number one home improvement project in America, but touching up scratches and scrape marks can be a never-ending process. Rubbermaid’s new Paint Buddy stores paint for fast, easy touch-ups. Learn more at www.paintbuddy.com. Easy Installation: Before changing kitchen cabinets, consider new handles and drawer pulls to update the look. At www. Amerock.com you'll find the latest in cabinet hardware. Designers say a switch from shiny brass to brushed metal or stainless steel can completely change the look of a room. Let There Be Light: Nothing brightens a room like natural light. Updated window treatments can help make that happen. The new custom WoodBlind Collection by Levolor showcases 55 beautiful furniture quality finishes. They can be complemented by updated drapery hardware and soft treatments for a unified look. Visit www.levolor.com. Clear The Clutter: While more than 80 percent of American garages today are designed for two or three cars, over half of all garage ownerssay there’s little or a= z —_— = gf DD Simple fix-ups can provide a cost- effective fresh look for your home. no room left for vehicles. When gardening tools and outdoor gear trump the family car, the FastTrack Garage System from Rubbermaid can help with an assort- ment of shelves, hooks, racks and baskets, many designed for difficult-to-store items such as wheelbarrows, ladders, power tools and sports equipment. Accessories are easy to reposition anywhere on the track and have a rustproof satin-nickel finish and rubbercoated grippers. The system is easy to install and holds up to 1,750 pounds. For more informa- tion go to www.rubbermaid.com. A Healthy Glow: Dress up the deck, patio or any outdoor entertaining area with candles that double as a mosquito repellent. Bernzomatic makes a Mosquito Block candle that helps shield people from these pesky bugs that can carry disease and ruin a party. In addition to helping provide your outdoor area with a warm candlelight glow, the Mosquito Block candles’ patented Linalool formula blocks a mosquito’s ability to find you. “It doesn’t take a major construction project to give your homea newlook or feel,” Manfre- dini said. “A few creative touches can deliver the makeover people are lookingfor.”
