Easy bathroom fix ups

The bathroom is probably one of the most used and abused rooms in a home and expensive bathroom remodels just aren't realistic for most homeowners. Consider a cosmetic update to fit the bill. A makeover is all many bathrooms need and with these easy do-it-yourself ideas you can enjoy a whole new room in no time.

* Give it a fresh color. A new paint job is always the quickest, cheapest way to fix up your bathroom. Scraping, sanding and masking the area you plan to paint will consume much of your elbow grease, but it's important you don't skimp here. Count on moisture compromising the integrity of your work and go to the extra lengths to ensure a good job. Traditionally, oil paints have been considered to be the best to use in bathrooms and kitchens, but there are plenty of latex paints that do the job just as well. Still choose a gloss, semi-gloss and satin varieties.

* Change out plumbing fixtures. Just changing a showerhead or sink faucet can work wonders. This might seem like a job for the experts, but as long as you remember to turn off the water supply you should be fine. In fact, most faucets can be installed with a wrench and screwdriver. Be sure to know what kind of faucet you have before you go to pick out a new one. If you have a single valve (one handle), you've got to stick with a single valve design. Use Teflon tape to seal your joints-it won't make a mess.

* Build a chair rail. A couple 2x4 rails, level and a saw will add great interest to the room. A chair rail runs parallel to the floor at one height all the way around the room. Ordinarily, it's placed at the height of a chair back-protecting walls from scuffs, but in the bathroom it can be placed at virtually any height and finished to fit your decor. Leave it natural, paint it to contrast with the walls or even detail it with stencil or hand painting. The possibilities are limitless.

* Lay tile accents. This is another job you might not think you have the skills to accomplish, but there are several ways to get around that roadblock. Cutting and spacing the tiles is the most difficult part, so be sure to pick up the proper tools for these tasks. Other than that, just remember to let the tiles set completely (24-48hrs) before you grout. If you still feel uncertain about your skill level, choose a tile that will hide the imperfections of the job or create a mosaic. To make a beautiful mosaic, use broken tiles and integrate seashells, rocks or other non-tile items.

* Add a second mirror. Open up the smallest, most frequented room with a new looking glass. This trick makes the room seem larger, creates interest and is a great alternative to replacing a light fixture or installing a new one. The extra light reflecting on the room sometimes adds just the right atmosphere. Rest the mirror on your new chair rail for easy installation.

* Replace decorative fixtures. Towel racks, toothbrush stands and soap dishes are easily replaced and can change your bathroom entirely. Simple stainless steel fixtures are very inexpensive and trendy. Other towel-hanging ideas include using a series of hooks, wood pegs or even a short, sturdy curtain rod with rings and clips.

* Redecorate with new linens. Soft new towels in the newest colors may not give your bathroom the facelift you're looking for, but your body and mind will enjoy the luxury. You'll be surprised by how a little detail like a new, full set of towels can transform the water closet into a spa.

Implementing all of these ideas at once will add up, so choose a couple ideas to start with. But be sure to plan your mini-updates to accommodate future plans. Before you know it you'll have a new room to relax in a steamy shower, get dolled up or just think a little.