Before the scorching summer days become a fading memory, you might want to complete a few home renovation projects. However, following up on your plans can be more challenging than you imagine. After all, not all projects are suitable for the hot summer weather. Not to mention, you may have difficulty finding reliable contractors and assembling a sufficient budget to cover all the expenses.
To make your home renovations go as smoothly as possible, avoid spending time on things you can do later. Instead of figuring out how debt consolidation can help you finance your remodelling projects or what contractors you should choose for the job, take a step back.
Considering what renovations would bring you the most value can help you plan everything out in advance and make the process more manageable.
Below, you will find five home renovation projects to increase the overall value of your home that are perfect for summer. Take a good look at them, get inspired, and give your home some much-needed TLC!
Spruce Up Your Deck
If you have a deck, summer is the best time to breathe new life into it. Before the BBQ season is in full swing, you can rejuvenate your patio with a fresh coat of paint or accessorise it by purchasing a new set of outdoor furniture. Alternatively, you can hang some string lights to bring a little ambience and create a romantic atmosphere.
Stripping and restaining your deck is a good idea, as it can help you protect it from the elements and enjoy it for longer. Plus, it is more cost-effective than completely replacing your wooden deck with a new one.
To refinish your deck, you need to follow a few simple steps:
1. Clean and sand the deck.
2. Apply stain or sealant to it using a paintbrush. Start at the top and work your way down to the deck surface.
3. Stain or seal the surface decking boards with a flat paint-pad applicator.
Voila, your deck is now ready to withstand the harsh sun rays and rain, providing you with a comfortable spot to relax or hang out with friends.
Build a Shed
While a more complicated project than refinishing your deck, building a shed is a fantastic way to make the most out of the summer sun and prepare your garden for the colder days. If your local authorities give you the green light, give this project a go.
Your shed can serve as a go-to place for storing gardening equipment, but it can also be much more than that. If you want to, you can transform it into firewood storage, an art studio, a children’s playground, or a sheltered spot to work while the chilly wind roars outside.
Remember to choose a section in your yard that offers convenient access and carefully consider each step of the process. If you need some help, do not hesitate to hire a contractor to give you a hand.
Remodel Your Bathroom
If you think building a shed is complicated, remodelling a bathroom might be a bit out of your league. Nevertheless, once you manage to see this project through, it can be a rewarding experience.
The complexity of this project depends on what you aim to achieve. For example, if you want to replace your bathtub with a brand-new shower and relocate a toilet, prepare for a lengthy and intricate process. Conversely, if you only plan to do cosmetic changes like switching your lighting fixtures, be aware it will take less time and effort to complete.
Taking accurate measurements and choosing a gorgeous yet practical design are two pillars of any bathroom remodel. So, pay special attention to these two elements and consult professionals when in doubt.
Install a Ceiling Fan
Although many homeowners opt for a central air conditioning system, a ceiling fan is a viable alternative. A bold design statement as much as a practical way to cool yourself during a balmy summer day, a stylish ceiling fan can instantly make the room a more pleasant place to spend your days in.
Even if you have AC in your home, installing a ceiling fan can be beneficial. For instance, it can reduce the strain on air conditioners during the hottest days while circulating air in winter to keep the room warm. Besides, installing a ceiling fan is relatively simple, especially if you can access the space above from an attic.
A good rule of thumb is to select fans with smaller blades for more compact rooms such as bathrooms and breakfast nooks and go for longer blade spans in larger areas, like a dining room. For optimal performance, hang your fan at least eight inches from the ceiling.
Invest in New Windows
Windows are something that many homeowners take for granted. But, they play a vital role in regulating the home’s temperature and air circulation. Old windows can cause drafts, leading to higher energy costs.
Getting energy-efficient windows in modern frames is a clear-cut improvement over dealing with old-fashioned ones that let air escape your home. According to realtor.com, “the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that you’ll save between $126 to $465 a year by replacing single-pane windows in your home.”
So, while replacing the windows on your home might not be as visually noticeable as other renovations, it is a straightforward way to yield a high return on your investment. Moreover, you can use new windows to transform the look of your home and give it a unique spin.
The Bottom Line
Summer is the time of the year many people look forward to, hoping to get some well-earned rest. Yet, it is also an excellent occasion to grab a toolbox and make a few home improvements. If you want to improve the looks of your home, you might want to take up the mantle and test your DIY skills before the first leaves fall off your backyard trees.
The projects mentioned above may provide a good starting point in your home improvement venture. While not all of them are easy to complete, they offer numerous benefits that are hard to overlook.
If you select the right projects, you can quickly add beauty and value to your property. And once you finish, you can celebrate this accomplishment by inviting family members and friends over to admire your handiwork. Good luck!