Summer is the best time to tackle home renovation and DIY projects. Some DIY projects will focus on maximizing your space or updating current spaces, and some projects will add to your property value. Below is a list of great ideas for DIY projects that you can tackle before the end of the summer.

Increase Your Energy Efficiency

• Summer is the perfect time to invest in projects that will improve your energy efficiency. You can do this in multiple ways:

•  Insulate – You can insulate your attic, basement, hot water pipes, and hot water heaters.

•  Replace Doors and Windows – If your doors and windows are old or not properly sealed they will allow in cold drafts or warm air that will decrease your energy efficiency.

• Replace Appliances – Replacing your washer, dryer, refrigerator, and heating and cooling units with energy efficient models will create upfront costs, but will save you money in the long run. These are only a few of the energy efficient appliance swaps you can make for your home.

• Create More Shade -When you plant trees or bushes, add awnings or heat resistant shades, blinds, curtains, or screens. You will stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Landscaping and Gardening

The spring and summer months are the best time to add more landscaping or redesign your current landscaping. If you have been wanting to expand your garden, or dig a new one, summer is the best time to do it. It is also a good time to plant new greenery or install the rock garden or rock pathway you have always wanted.

You could also add areas in your front and back yard where your family can spend more time outside enjoying a swimming pool, volleyball net, playhouse, or tree house.

Clean Exterior Elements

During the summer you can brighten the exterior of your home by pressure washing the sides, the patio, the porch, and the decks. If your home is brick, you can fix cracks by tuck-pointing and doing general maintenance.

Summer is also a good time to repaint and refinish the exterior of your home, to replace window siding and shutters, and add external elements like window boxes.

Repurpose Your Attic or Basement

If you have a basement or attic that you use as a storage space, the summer is a great time to repurpose the space. While you may still need to use the space, you can add organizational tools and accessories and which may help downsize your need for storage.

Once you have reorganized your space consider if there are any other ways you can repurpose the space. If you would like to create a play room for the kids, an art studio, an office space, a rec room, a home gym, or a guest bedroom, start by insulating the space and finishing the floors.

All of the home renovations above will show the pride you take in your home. If you select a DIY renovation or two to take on each summer you will have a well-maintained home that will keep its property value and look beautiful from the inside out.

The author, Russel Hartline, is a home renovator and freelance blogger with years of experience with home and DIY projects. He hopes to inspire readers to take on new projects and currently recommends buying bulkhead material from a professional for your projects.

If you need assistance with any of these projects and you live in the Westchester, New York area, give us a call!  We’ll come out and provide you with a free in home estimate! Gary B.