When you plan to hire a contractor for the home upgrade, you want projects that add value to your home. Honestly, you don’t have to go for full renovation with a hefty price tag to get the best out of it. Rather, go for affordable upgrades to add aesthetics and functionality to your home. Whether you need to make your home a sweet place to live or want to put it on the market, functionality, and aesthetics are the key factors to consider. Here are 10 home improvement projects that are the real deal.
1. Kitchen Remodeling
According to the Remodeling Magazine 2023 report, major kitchen remodeling can add $48,913 to your home if you intend to sell it. Experts also argue large home improvement projects see lower returns than smaller projects. As such, smaller projects will pay off because you’ll spend less and get a higher value. Additionally, basic upgrades may not require permits, making the process easier to execute.
It’s no surprise that home buyers consider properties with upgraded kitchens. With the kitchen being the heart of a home, real estate professionals say they notice potential buyers check the kitchen before viewing other rooms. The kitchen cabinet is one component that needs attention at all costs. This is because the kitchen is all about dealing with several items, and ample storage makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Other than the cabinets, your kitchen designers must help you set up the appliances. A kitchen may have the best design, but if it has a run-down refrigerator and an outdated microwave, it cannot give the impression of a high-quality space. When upgrading the appliances, go for the brands your frequent visitors are versed in. Unpopular brands may turn off the potential buyer if they cannot judge the value.
Kitchen renovations become one of the best home improvement projects because of functionality and efficiency. Cabinets increase the space for cooking and storage, making the kitchen easier to care for. On the other hand, the right appliances help save time and energy. Ample space also helps reduce water spillage, making moisture control easier.
2. Bathroom Remodeling
Many homeowners are convinced that bathroom makeovers significantly increase return on investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, you can get a $28,203 return on investment with the basic bathroom remodel. But that’s not the most important reason for investment if you don’t intend to sell your home.
Family safety is always an issue of concern for many homeowners. You need to protect your family from respiratory diseases and skin infections. Moreover, as the family leader, you must set everyone’s mood for the day. And you can achieve all this by having a classy bathroom.
According to Real Time Lab reports, in 2023, 7 million deaths yearly are linked to indoor and outdoor air pollution. In the report, of the 21.8 million people reported to have asthma, approximately 4.6 million are caused by dampness and mold exposure in the home. With that said, keeping your bathroom in good condition can set you apart from the 45 million buildings reported to have unhealthy mold levels in the United States.
The bathroom is the most humid room of a house, but if you make it spacious, moisture will have no room to build up. Secondly, upgraded materials like laminate, glass, and quartz resist moisture, making the room safer. In addition, regular repairs to prevent leakages will help keep the place dry. For instance, bathtub repair or upgrade is one of the best investments you can have in this project.
Ensuring you have clean water in the bathroom will keep your family healthy. You can achieve it by upgrading the plumbing lines and the faucets. Over time, metallic pipes deteriorate due to excessive water pressure and minerals. You’ll notice with the joints and seams, but the big issue is the itching experience they cause on the skin.
According to KEROVIT, the bathroom sets your mood for the day. So, a clean and tidy bathroom with great decor can make you feel good and improve your mood for the rest of the day. With that said, ensure the cabinets are top-notch and hire a top florist to make the room more appealing. This will set the tone and mood of your kids in school and improve your work productivity.
If you’re having your bathroom remodeled, you may want to also consider hiring the services of a plumber. This is especially true if you’re in need of piping or repiping services. A plumber would be able to help you out with this! You want to be sure you hire someone who is professional and can help you with your plumbing problems. Repiping might especially be more important if you are remodeling a bathroom. Don’t be afraid to seek out professionals for a job like this instead of trying to do it yourself.
Before you get started, be sure to ask them a few questions first. How much will the new piping cost? How long will a bathroom remodel take? Can you provide me with an accurate estimate? If you are upfront with your plumbing service provider, you can have a better experience overall. Are you ready to get started? Contact your local plumbing services today before you get started with your bathroom renovation. That way, you can be sure everything is all set and ready to go before the real renovation begins!
3. New Roof Installation
Roofing is one of the most common home improvement projects among homeowners. A roof protects the home from weather elements and also adds energy efficiency. Forbes reports that shingle roofs can last 25 to 30 years if well maintained. But what matters is the aesthetics and the coverage.
A new roof comes with several benefits, like warranties. A roofing contractor will give you a warranty to cover repair costs for around 5 to 10 years if damages result from their mistakes. On the other hand, the shingle manufacturers give you a warranty to replace any damaged material. These warranties may last up to 10 years; once they expire, you’ll cover the costs from your pocket.
As the warranties expire, the insurance also calculates the value, and the compensation may be reduced. Well, a valuable roof with all the warranties and insurance coverage will attract more buyers if you list your house for sale. Additionally, you save a lot of money on repairs.
Modern roofing also helps save energy because installing the insulating material will reduce heat during summer. Your new roof will also give you peace because it will withstand the snow, hail, rain, ice, and debris. Considering the benefits your family will enjoy, a roofing service is worth paying for every 10 to 15 years.
4. HVAC Replacements
US Energy Information Administration report shows that many people have embraced air conditioning equipment since 2001. The number has gradually increased; by 2020, 88% of homes had air conditioners. HVAC systems make a home more cozy, especially during harsh weather.
Firstly, the system helps freshen the air around the house. Indoor air is the most polluted because of the limited circulation. In the room, you will have pet hair, people breathing out CO2, and food leftovers that emit smells. The HVAC ensures the environment is safer for all household members.
On the other hand, the system helps reduce the moisture in the house and save people from respiratory health risks. It’s for this reason, the HVAC system is regarded as the first thing a potential buyer will check once they visit your home for viewing. When investing in an HVAC system, use the latest model because it’s more efficient.
Modern HVAC systems have advanced technologies that enhance thermal comfort and improve indoor air quality. So, you’d want to seek HVAC services and upgrade your system every 10 years for two reasons. One, the warranties expire in this period, and second, technology is advancing faster.
Besides the upgrade, you must schedule the HVAC maintenance regularly to ensure your system is efficient. Experts advise cleaning the system at least twice a year. But if you live in a dusty area, you may need to clean the system at least 4 times a year. A professional must always carry out this exercise.
5. Fence Installation
As far as home improvement is concerned, many homeowners in the US have not embraced fencing. You’ll notice wide uninterrupted laws in many states, unlike in other regions where homes are protected with high concrete walls. Homeowners Association and other zoning rules prevent homeowners from having their homes fenced.
What if your state’s zoning laws allow home fencing? Then you have a good chance to hire a fence company and make your home better. A quality fence installation keeps the kids and the dogs safe because they cannot escape from the yard. On the other hand, a fence keeps thieves and burglars off your yard.
According to Forbes, hiring a fence contractor costs around $40 an hour. And fence costs vary depending on the lot size and the fence type. For instance, you can get charged to install a fence per linear foot if your yard is smaller and per acre if you have bigger land. Here are different fence types and their costs per linear foot:
- Bamboo – $20
- Wood – $5 to $20
- Aluminum or metal – $30 to $50
- Vinyl – $20 to $40
6. Hardwood Flooring Refinish or Replacement
Breathe new life into your existing ceramic tile floors by swapping them for new hardwoods. Hardwood floors have been trending for decades because they add warmth, style, and luxury. According to Forbes, hardwood flooring can add up to 80% return on investment.
Hardwood flooring gives a wide range of options depending on your taste. You may decide to go the traditional or modern way. Some homeowners mix the styles to make the home more appealing. Here are examples of hardwood flooring you can choose:
- Hickory
- Pine
- Brazilian Walnut
- Bamboo floor
- White ash
- Myroxylon balsamum
- Acacia
- Eastern black walnut
- Brazilian Cherry
- Oak
- Maple
- Birch
- Teak
- Mahogany
- Wenge
- Sapele
7. Insulation Upgrade
Insulation is vital in energy saving, so it will be an ideal home improvement task. As a homeowner, you would want to invest in the latest insulation materials that will pay for themselves within a few years. Apart from the energy efficiency, your home will have added comfort. Household members will stay cool during summer and warm during winter.
Noise reduction is another benefit of the insulation upgrade. If you have noisy neighbors or your home is near a busy highway, insulation will help you reduce the noise. An insulation home has a higher resale value because every home buyer wants a place of comfort. Buyers want an investment that will give them comfort and save them money on utilities.
8. Wood Window Replacement
Window upgrade is one of the home improvement projects you cannot overlook. Windows creates the overall curb appeal of the home. In fact, the buyers will be impressed by the look of the front windows before viewing the interior. The condition of the window frames and the panes determines whether you’ll strike the deal.
Wooden windows have become popular in recent decades because they have unique styles and aesthetics. Wood is naturally an insulator, so it plays a vital role in saving energy in the house. Additionally, wood is not prone to rusting like metallic material, which can take a beating after a few harsh winters. If well-maintained and protected from moisture, wood can last longer than metal.
The natural beauty of the wood windows can add up to 80%. Oak is a classic choice for wooden windows due to its durability. It also has beautiful grain patterns and traditional aesthetics that suit several properties. Alternatively, you can choose mahogany because it’s also decay-resistant.
9. Fiber Cement Siding Replacement
According to CNBC, fiber cement siding is the best home improvement project because it can give up to $17,129 in resale value. Home siding is beneficial in retaining the quality of the building bricks because it protects them from the weather. Most siding lasts for over 30 years before you can plan on replacing it. On the other hand, maintenance is very easy and cheap.
A homeowner can use a special putty to patch the fiber cement siding once it’s damaged. These are the benefits a potential home buyer will consider after visiting your home for viewing. Luckily, the putty is included in the fiber cement repair kit and is easier to mix and spread. Fiber cement siding replacement costs range from $1500 to $38000, depending on your home size.
10. Paint Refresh
After your home improvement project, expect the exterior paint to start fading within 5 to 7 years. The interior paint will fade between 5 to 10 years because it’s more protected from direct sunlight and UV rays. Giving your home fresh paint can give you a high return on investment.
According to Forbes, the easiest way to get some bang for your buck is to give the exterior and interior rooms some fresh coat. Fresh paint will create curb appeal even if your budget isn’t enough for more upgrades. Fortunately, there are affordable paints in the market, but you’ll stand out if you choose popular and quality brands.
You don’t have to break the bank for a home improvement project. A simple project that can add aesthetics and functionality to your home and increase its value. However, hire professionals to carry out your project at all times because you need to protect your valuable investment. Aside from professionals, sourcing materials from a reputable store is also an added benefit.
