Start the 2020 off with ways to increase your home value this year. These monthly project ideas are sustainable, energy efficient and can substantially increase the value of your home. While several of these project are projects you can do yourself. The others may require the assistance of a licensed and insured contractor.
January – Paint
The cold air can be a benefit for projects like painting. The cold dry air helps cure the paint, but be sure you crack a window for ventilation if not using low-VOC paints. Some paint manufactures offer sales during the winter months. Again, keep an eye out for these savings at your local home improvement store. If you are not prepared to repaint a room this winter, you can take advantage of these discounts and store the paint until you are ready. Remember your paint needs to stay at a temperature between 60* Fahrenheit and 80* Fahrenheit. Do not store cans on concrete floors, where they rust more quickly.
February – New Thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat. It will not only save you an endless effort of adjusting the settings but also save you energy. The thermostat will automatically turn the air conditioning or furnace down when not in use. It’ll prevent extreme fluctuations, which will stabilize your home temperature. All you have to do is set it according to your needs. You’ll save a lot by only running appliances when needed.
March – Insulation
Insulating your home will help reduce your usage of the AC or heat during the summer and winter seasons. One of the Eco-friendliest ways of insulating your home is the cellulose material, where 85% of the material is manufactured from recycled newspaper. Another benefit is reducing your monthly energy costs since your AC and heat account for as much as 70% of your electrical bills.
April – Power wash and Stain
The most cost efficient way to save money is to power wash and stain your deck. Firstly, you will want to check all your decking and support beams for any water or insect damage. Consequently, if you find any damage you will need to replace those boards. It’s important to check that all the nails or screws are set and not sticking up. Once all the repairs are made to the deck you are ready to power wash the deck. Allow the deck to dry completely. It takes approximately 2 days with direct sunlight. It will take 5 days without direct sunlight for the deck to dry. When applying your stain, we recommend using a wool or sponge applicator to avoid leaving streaks. Start applying high and work your way down. If applying two coats of stain, you will need to wait 24 hours to allow drying.
May – Windows
Most homes have areas that are glossing heat/cool air. Furthermore, 40% of warm or cold air is lost through windows, doors and floors. Therefore, replacing your windows can save you up to approximately $500.00 a year. Not to mention, the green effect you can have on the environment. “Taxpayers who upgrade their homes to make use of renewable energy may be eligible for a tax credit to offset some of the costs. As of the 2018 tax year, the federal government offers the Non business Energy Property Credit. The credits are good through 2019 and then are reduced each year through the end of 2021.” states Intuit TurboTax. Consequently this may be a perfect time financially to place windows in your home. With so many different options on purchasing windows, this blog is to simplify the options with a guide to window replacements.
June – Bathroom Fixtures
Sometimes the smallest things make a big impact. By replacing your sink faucets, light fixture, towel racks and cabinet fixtures you can change the entire look of a room. With your new wall color and new fixtures you can inexpensively change the look of your bathroom without calling a contractor.
July – Outdoor environment
A pergola can be a stand alone structure or added to a current deck to increase the home value. Pergolas add an element of grace and elegance to your back yard outdoor living space. Not only do they add a visual appeal, they add a minimal of 20% more value to your home. If you are looking to define an outdoor space, a pergola is a practical choice financially. They give shade, while giving the area more natural light.
August – Basement Update
Are you looking for some fun cool summer basement remodel ideas? As the temperatures rise you may want to get out of the sun and enjoy a cool place in your home for summer fun activities. The lower levels in your home can be 15* degrees cooler, making a basement remodel the perfect
September – Replace appliances
If you are remodeling your kitchen, most major appliances go on sale during the months of September and October. The newer models will hit the stores in the winter. You can take advantage of these sales and prepare for a kitchen remodel. While you are replacing your appliances, it is a good time to upgrade your kitchen cabinets and flooring.
October – Heating System
Keeping your heating system cleaned and maintained improves the systems performance. It’s the time of the year to clean your duct work out. It can be done professionally or you can simple vacuum them out yourself. Also have your furnace professionally serviced and replace the filters. Your heating system will work more economically and save you money in the long run.
November – Room Remodel
Are you expecting guest for November and December? Remodeling a bathroom or adding a bathroom will also benefit the comfort of your home while hosting guest. Contractors are in their slow season. They can accommodate a home owner’s time schedule more efficiently. Depending on the size of the project you may be able to complete a project in several weeks. Ask your contractor about a timeline for the project at your consultation.
December – Future Projects
The cost of material will often decrease in these months. It’s all about the supply and demand. Home improvement supply stores see a drop in material purchase during the winter months. Therefore, they have decreased prices on the building material or sales on building supplies. Keep your eye out for black Friday discounts for appliances and home improvement material. A good contractor will want to help you find ways to save money. Be sure to ask him for cost saving ideas.
Make your 2019 resolution to increase the home value with these monthly renovation projects. If CH Construction can assist you on any of these projects, please give us a call.
