These ten projects will improve the look and efficiency of your home without breaking the bank.

1. Seal all gaps and cracks on the exterior of your home
   Approximate cost: Less than $25 ($4-$10 for a caulk gun and $15 for caulk)
   Benefit: A savings of 10% to 20% on your heating and air conditioning bills
2. Replace return-air filters every month
   About $20-$40 a year
   Extends life of heating/cooling equipment and helps with energy costs
3. Paint your exterior shutters
   $20 to $40 for a gallon of exterior paint.
   Improves curb appeal for you, the neighbors, and for resale
4. Change the hardware in your kitchen or bathroom
   Drawer pulls start at around $2 each; towel bars at $10
   An updated look for a minimum cost
5. Add a ceiling fan
   $35 and up
   Greater comfort and lower energy bills in summer and winter
6. Repair cracks in your patio or walk
   $2-$5 for a tube of concrete patch.
   Extends life of concrete and decreases moisture from collecting near house
7. Replace torn screens
   Around $15 for screening and new spline
   Spruces up house and makes open windows bug proof
8. Update your lighting fixtures
   varies – $25 and up
   Modernizes a focal point in important rooms
9. Replace torn or damaged weather stripping and thresholds
   $5 to $15 for weather stripping; $10 to $25 per threshold
   A seal at doors and windows can mean another 10% in energy savings
10. Brighten up a room with paint (use a contrasting color on trim to add punch)
    $15-$35 for a gallon of interior paint
    You change the entire aspect of a room without buying new furniture