When summer sweeps in with warmer weather and longer days, people immediately know it’s time to start on home improvements. Not only is the cost of materials cheaper in the summer, but it seems like we all suddenly have more time to spend outside in the fresh air.
These eight home improvements can give any homeowner the chance to start fresh and give their home a new face. Consider making these changes this summer!
1. Deep Clean Your Driveways and Sidewalks
The average driveway harbors more than its fair share of stains and spills; it's hard to avoid them when you have a car. This summer, you should look into how to remove oil stains from driveways and take the time to rent a power washer so you can clean this up.
Power washers are awesome because they use the force of a singular strong jet of water to remove everything from stains to debris and offer the chance to make your driveway and walk look brand new.
If you have time and want to keep going, pressure washers can also work wonders on brick and siding, possibly allowing your entire home to look brand new!
2. Install an Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are one of the most popular home improvements this summer! This fantastic space allows you to cook and entertain outdoors, getting as much use out of your lawn as possible.
This project can cost between five and thirty thousand dollars depending on how much you want to put in and is worth every penny. Make sure to include seating in your plan, and consider building some kind of roofed area for it, so you don't have to worry about your outside appliances rusting quickly, and you can cook outside even when it rains!
3. Replace Older and Out of Date Windows
Old windows are often the main reason for heating and cooling inefficiencies. If your HVAC system is always running, or you notice your energy bill reaching incredible heights, it could be time to update your windows.
Test for air leaks by holding a candle near closed windows and doors, and watch to see if the flame moves or reacts. If it pulls one way or another, it could be time to look into giving your historical windows an update.
4. Plant a Rain Garden to Take Care of Standing Water
Almost fourteen percent of properties are at risk of flooding within the next ten years: so it’s important that you do everything you can to protect your home. Take the time necessary to research what local native plants have deep roots in your area, and don’t be afraid to plant a garden of them! Not only will these plants ensure that your home doesn’t flood, but they’ll also keep your soil intact to stop any land slippage from happening.
5. Update The Woodstain Throughout
What color is the wood stain currently in your home? The average homeowner has multiple stains through several rooms that can clash with one another. In 2022 the most popular color is a light and warm natural wood stain. Consider removing the current stains from your pieces and getting the best interior wood stain possible so that they’ll now match.
6. Add More Smart Technology
Smart technology can change everything about a property. From clever devices like Google Home or Alexa that can be used as intercom systems between rooms to awesome smart thermostats that can help your home stay at a comfortable temperature and ultimately save money on your heating and cooling bills.
Many of these pieces of technology are so commonplace that they’re expected to be in nearly any property, so it’s time to update your home to keep up with the times.
7. Give Your Home a New Color
A fresh look can change everything, and that’s true for homes as well! If your siding is on its last legs, why not consider replacing it? The top color this year is sage green siding, which allows your home to look fresh and clean, and can change everything about how people perceive your property.
Make sure if you're replacing your siding that you also consider adding more insulation to keep your home more energy-efficient.
8. Repair or Replace Your Aging Roof
The average roof can last from thirty to fifty years, so an aging roof may quickly sneak up on an unsuspecting homeowner and need to be replaced when they don’t have the budget for it. Unfortunately, a roof that’s out of repair can leave your home in severe danger of leaks, insulation issues, and animals getting into the property.
This summer, take the time to look into a shake roof repair if you need one or consider starting a budget to replace your roof when it's time comes.
Every Property Can Use An Upgrade this Summer
Whether you recently purchased your home or you've lived there for decades, it's never too late for a fresh face. Consider making some of these updates on your property this summer.
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