Essential Improvements for Your Home

It’s fun to plan and design improvements for your home. But when it comes to essential improvements, here is helpful information to know and our top ideas.

If you are addicted to home improvement shows, you probably dream of open-concept kitchens and luxurious en suite bathrooms. While these rooms can definitely add value to your home, the most important home improvements you can make are slightly less glamorous, but likely more necessary to the long-term health and safety of your home. Taking care of these essentials first helps you avoid unpleasant surprises when you are ready to move on to home improvement projects that you might consider more exciting.

Also, one of the keys to successful home improvements is choosing a project that will add value and functionality to your home. Not all additions or renovations actually increase your home’s value. Before you commit to a project, understand how it will affect your home’s resale potential.

Roofing

Having a solid, well-maintained, quality roof helps you avoid problems like leaks and pest damage. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it is probably time to consider replacing or repairing it. At the very least, have it inspected. Making roof repairs early is key to preventing long-term damage to your home. Upgrading your roofing can even improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Electrical

If you live in a home built in the last 30 or so years, you probably do not have to worry too much about electrical. But if your home is more than 40 years old, replacing the electrical should be at the top of your list. Doing so can avoid power surges, give you increased efficiency, and prevent the possibility of an electrical fire.

Appliances

The biggest source of energy usage in your home is your refrigerator, and other high-use appliances include your heating and air conditioning and your water heater. Having Energy Star rated appliances saves you money on your electric bill by being more efficient and better insulated. They are also more appealing to potential buyers if you are in the market to sell.

Solar

Adding solar panels can cost you a little upfront, but give you savings for decades. Look for rebates and incentives in your area to help subsidize the cost. You will appreciate the difference in your electric bill. Solar is also appealing to home buyers and may help your house to sell faster.

Once all of the important working parts of your house are in order, you can confidently move on to other home improvement projects. Keeping your home safe and up-to-date is essential to living comfortably and makes it easier to sell.

Replace Your Front Door

Surprisingly, the simple task of replacing your front door yields a 98% return on your investment. Plus, this is also one of the cheapest and easiest home improvement projects you can do. It greatly improves curb appeal without adding to your existing home maintenance.

Upgrade Your Siding

Siding has the most impact on your curb appeal because it covers most of your home’s exterior. Old and worn siding can knock up to 10% off of your home’s overall value. You can choose from vinyl, fiber-cement, wood, and other materials. Each siding type has its own pros and cons regarding design, durability, and cost.

Remodel Your Kitchen

When you hear kitchen remodel, you probably imagine a home improvement show where the entire space is gutted and redone. However, your transformation does not need to be so dramatic if you do not want it to be. An upgrade in appliances, countertops, cabinets, etc. can go a long way in adding resale value to your home.

What if You Live Near the Coast?

If you live near the coast, you might be wondering how you can get the most out of your wonderful location. There are a number of home improvements that can turn your ordinary home into a beach abode. Whether you recently purchased a run-down beach condo that needs some major TLC or own a lovely Cape Cod that could use a little sprucing up, here are some easy ways to transform any home into the perfect coastal retreat.

Open It up

Open floor plans are perfect for coastal homes, especially if you have postcard views of the ocean. An open floor plan makes the home seem much larger and lends a light, airy feel to any space. Combine the dining, kitchen, and living areas into one bright, large room and allow cool sea breezes to waft through the area from open windows. Use a casual, neutral palette to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Bring in the Light

Skylights are perfect for coastal homes. They can transform any dark, stale room into a bright, sunny space. Use skylights to flood your interior spaces with plenty of natural light. Strategically placed skylights can give a home a breezy feel and highlight stunning water views. In addition to diffusing your home with natural light, operable skylights can also help allow warmer air to rise and escape to the outside.

Create a Cozy Backyard Sanctuary

With gorgeous outdoor coastal scenery, you want to make the most of your outdoor space. Make use of your outdoor space by transforming it into a comfy living area. If your deck is not very large, extend it to allow for extra seating for parties and outdoor gatherings. Use durable, lovely outdoor fabrics to make your outdoor space both useful and stylish.

An outdoor deck, especially one that has an unobstructed view of the water is the perfect place for a summer bash or a quiet drink. If you live near the coast, it is important to maintain your deck to prevent sun damage and moisture problems. Periodic waterproofing and deck coating will ensure that your deck stays in top shape for many years of use.

Give Your Landscaping a Makeover

Updating your landscaping will help boost your home’s facade and add curb appeal. Use native plants in your landscaping design, as these plants require less maintenance and enhance your natural surroundings. Low-lying plants are perfect for coastal settings as will not obstruct gorgeous ocean views. Wide-leaf plants and delicate flowers add beauty to the landscape without being too distracting and taking away from the natural surroundings. A water feature is a great way to enhance the coastal feel of your yard. It can provide tranquility and drown out nearby noise.

Build a Party Dock

If you live right on the water, it is almost imperative to have a boat dock. Instead of a traditional dock, consider building a party dock. A party dock combines a floating lounge with a boat dock. These versatile docks are perfect for docking your boat and throwing huge summer bashes. You can outfit your floating dock with a swimmer’s platform, wet bar, television, and comfortable lounge chairs for the ultimate in fun.

Conclusion

As you pursue your home improvement options, do not forget to consult with professionals to get a realistic idea of the possibilities. Especially if you are looking at an invasive procedure like roof replacement, you will likely need to contact a contractor.