Spring has arrived after a brutal winter in many parts of the country, so it’s time to consider the home improvement plans you put on hold in the fall.
One source says Americans fork over north of $500 billion annually on home renovations and repairs. That’s a ton of money, but it’s worth it, given that most people would list their dwellings as their single biggest investment. But without proper upkeep, repairs, and improvements, homeowners won’t achieve maximum property value growth.
While some homeowners see home improvement as a DIY affair, others prefer to hire contractors. Doing the latter is advisable if you lack the skills, the time, or the patience to do it unassisted. But it might also be better for your health to hire experts if you live in an older home.
The first asbestos ban in the U.S. was issued in 1989. So, if your home was manufactured before then, there’s a possibility it has materials containing asbestos fibers that, if inhaled, can get into your lungs and cause cancer. Mesothelioma is an aggressive and especially deadly type of cancer that’s primarily caused by asbestos exposure.
If you live in an older residence, be careful about ripping out flooring, ceiling tiles, insulation, and other things that might have asbestos. It’s a safer bet to hire a company that can check for possible asbestos or hire a reputable contractor to do the renovations safely.
Whatever you decide, consider these three things before renovating your home to bring it to the modern age both style- and utility-wise.
1. Set a Clear Budget
While setting a budget might seem obvious, many homeowners get into financial trouble because they don’t set a realistic budget. The key word here is “realistic.” Before kicking off a remodeling project, establish a budget that factors into the equation materials, labor, permits, and unexpected costs that are sure to rear their ugly heads.
You need a budget to ensure you don’t bite off more than you can chew. Having a realistic budget can also make the process less stressful since cost overruns will be less likely.
2. Prioritize Energy Efficiency
It’s also a good idea to prioritize energy efficiency. More and more homeowners are focusing on sustainability and lowering their carbon footprint to be better stewards of the environment.
But it’s not just about doing the right thing for the environment. Goring green can also keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket at the end of the month. When modernizing your dwelling, you can incorporate energy-efficient solutions that lower utility bills and environmental impact. That counts as a win-win.
Options include upgrading to LED lighting from traditional bulbs, installing a smart thermostat, adding energy-efficient appliances, and swapping your old windows for energy-efficient units with the latest features and technologies to reduce utility bills.
Another way to lower energy consumption is to invest in an outdoor kitchen so that you and yours can gather outside for meal preparation and cooking when it’s too hot to use your stove or oven. By spending time outdoors, your HVAC won’t have to work non-stop to cool your home.
3. Focus on Open and Functional Spaces
Yet another way to modernize your home is to focus on open and functional spaces. Consider getting rid of non-load-bearing walls to create more spacious living spaces. You can make your home feel more connected by eliminating walls that are more optional than necessary. Working with a good contractor can get you the results you want.
These are some things to consider if you’re ready to tackle home improvement projects. Whether you want to increase functionality or want a new look, the right remodeling initiatives can help you achieve your goals.
And remember that sometimes leaving the jobs to the professionals is worth it. You wouldn’t, for example, want to come into contact with home-building materials containing asbestos that can lead to severe health outcomes.
