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5 Home Projects You Can Start in Winter

By
Home Builder

Renovating your home during the winter may not have ever been something that occurred to you. However, it could be rather appealing for homeowners to start their projects when there's a sheet of snow on the ground.

If you prefer staying in during the colder season, perhaps jumping into a few DIY projects can help dress up your living area while passing the time. Here are five home projects you can start before spring rolls around. 

Upgrade Your Kitchen

According to the 2021 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends report, kitchen remodeling was the most popular interior upgrade at 27%

Consider spending the winter months changing things out for a more modern look if you think your cabinets and hardware are outdated. Sleek shaker cabinets can give your kitchen a cleaner feel, while a pop of color on the island or backsplash can add a bit of dimension. A copper hood vent can add warmth over your stovetop if you want to get somewhat fancier. 

However, if you're not looking to take on a large-scale renovation, just switching out your cabinet hardware for something more updated is a cheap DIY option. You can do this in no time at all.

Paint the Walls

Painting your interior walls is another DIY project you can accomplish in the winter. Under the right conditions, you can quickly transform your rooms from drab to fab.

If you decide to paint your house in the winter, make sure the internal temperature is warm enough to dry without cracking. Most paints are applied more easily when used at a minimum of 50 F, which is critical to know when ventilating the area. You can diminish fumes and wind up with an even coat by opening a window just a smidge.

Stuck inside? Low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paints are recommended for fewer fumes and greater durability.

Install New Flooring

Winter may be the right time to install new flooring, especially if you've been walking on outdated carpeting or cold tile floors. Because of low humidity levels in the winter, hardwood floors have less chance of swelling and can settle in more easily.

A new floor can highlight other features of your home, as well. Darker colors can make lighter furniture stand out, while lighter ones may look great against a charcoal accent wall in your dining room. 

Updating your floors is also a great way to add greener features to your household. Sustainable flooring, such as artisan wood or cork, is a beautiful, natural alternative to traditional vinyl or laminate and reduces environmental impact during manufacturing.

Change Your Light Fixtures

Winter can make a mess of our bodies and minds. A lack of sunlight can even lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The American Psychiatric Associates states that about 5% of adults experience SAD every year.

When it comes to winter DIY projects, you may find that simply switching to brighter, energy-efficient bulbs can boost your mood and help dispel the winter blues. Add floor lamps or table lamps to further enhance a room's illumination.

Add More Storage

You can never have enough storage in your home. Take a good look at your rooms this winter. Where do you need additional space to store things? 

Consider adding shelving to your kitchen or living room or optimizing seating with benches. Some benched seating includes hinged lids for you to keep your belongings out of sight.

Bookshelves in your living room area can also add to your home's cozy aesthetic while offering you a place to display your most special heirloom items.

Winter: The Perfect Time for a Home Makeover

In addition to passing the time more quickly, holidays discounts on materials and flexible scheduling for contractors make winter an ideal time to kickstart your home renovation. It's amazing what a few design upgrades can do to revamp your residence.

Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

James, I have some clients and friends doing some remodeling right now, but contractors are tough to come by.

Jan 13, 2022 08:20 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

These are some great ideas James. We're in the middle of converting our screened-in porch to a sunroom so we enjoy the space year round. Should be finished in the next couple of weeks. I can't wait!

Jan 13, 2022 11:25 AM
Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®
RE/MAX Platinum - Waukesha, WI
Giving Back With Each Home Sold!

Great information.  Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful day!

Feb 09, 2022 07:18 AM