There are many upgrades and
renovations that you can make to your home. Many of these will increase the
value by adding a little more curb appeal, but the true value is added when
homeowners invest in upgrades that improve the durability and livability of the
home or property. Think about these four home upgrades to help protect against extreme weather for your next big project.
Replace Your
Windows
While this may not fit every single
homeowner, it is safe to say that many homes and buildings do not have the
right windows to help protect them against extreme weather events. Investing in
windows designed to keep cold air out and add stability to your home will go a
long to protecting your family and the value of your home. Always inspect
window frames for any warping or cracking. Replace them with frames made of
durable materials.
Security Doors for Real
Security
While your windows may one of the
most vulnerable aspects of your home during extreme weather, your doors can
also pose an issue. It is possible to install your basic storm door to help
protect against the weather, but they may not be as effective against a
possible intruder. Adding security doors will give you the benefits of strong
and sturdy protection from both bad weather and bad intentions.
Roller Shutters
If you truly want to keep the bad
weather out, installing roller shutters on your windows or doors can do just
that. Roller shutters
are easy to operate and maintain while adding protection to your home. Today,
it’s possible to find roll shutters for windows and doors in a variety of
colors and profiles to add more appeal and personality.
Roof Repairs and Maintenance
Roofing is not easy or cheap to fix,
so proper maintenance and care is essential to maintaining the value and
protection of your home. You can do your own in-home inspection annually to
ensure that everything looks alright, but a professional should come out on a
regular schedule for a thorough inspection. This is especially important prior
to winter months and more extreme weather shifts.
Taking care of your home means
giving it the best possible chance to survive. Focus your attention on the home
upgrades that will protect you and your family during bad weather months, and
your home will take care of you for a long time.
Maintaining the structural
integrity of your home is vital to ensuring that it does not experience any
major damage during your years of ownership. You want your property to last a
lifetime, and knowing how to prepare for the proper maintenance will ensure
that you avoid all types of damage in the future.
Roof Inspections
Your roof is one of the most often
overlooked sections of your home. Many homeowners are not aware of what a major
structural component the roof is, taking it for granted until it started to
show unavoidable signs of damage. If you live in an area that is particularly
prone to rain and wind damage, it is especially vital for you to schedule roof
inspections as often as possible. A capable professional will be able to help
you assess issues with your roof before they have the chance to grow out of
control.
Basement Inspections
Inspecting the basement can be as
vital as taking a look at the roof. If you do not have a basement, you can
still work with a foundations expert who will take a look at the integrity of
your home. The basement is also often overlooked as a section that can develop
serious signs of damage. Because of how prone basements are to flooding, water
and insect damage, it is not uncommon for many structural issues on the
property to occur in there. Having the basement and general foundations of the
property inspected can mean saving thousands on repairs and potential issues in
the future.
Soil Stabilization
Soil stabilization procedures can
also be invaluable in maintaining the structural integrity of your property.
Because of the way soil naturally tends to shift and expand or shrink over the
years, many homes may experience structural damage as a result of soil changes
around them. Fortunately, the appropriate soil stabilization options and
amendments can help homeowners improve the stability of their property. Without
the appropriate stabilization techniques, your home may start to slide on its
foundations, tipping over and becoming uneven or outright breaking at key
sections. Because of how slow the process is, homeowners may have ample
opportunity to schedule a consultation as necessary.
Though the specifics of your
property may vary depending on how long you have lived in it and what its
structural integrity is already like, it is vital for you to keep up with
inspections to ensure that damage always stays minimal. Plan ahead for a yearly
look at your home’s major components to avoid all types of issues in the
future.
When we are looking to sell our home
we usually look at the way the value will be increased if we undertake a
visually stunning upgrade to our home. Increasing the value of a home can also be
done by undertaking a few projects that are not easily visible to the naked
eye. Curb appeal is one option when you are looking to increase the value of
your home but completing some projects that lower utility bills can add huge
amounts to the assessed cost of a property.
Go Tankless
When you are looking to increase the
value of your property you will usually find yourself faced with a number of
possible upgrades, including the ability to provide on-demand hot water. A hot water plumber
will be able to install and maintain a tankless water heater that can lower
your water and power usage by a large amount. A tankless hot water heater is
installed close to a bathroom or kitchen and provides a simple solution to
almost instant hot water to limit losses associated with a traditional large
tank supplying hot water.
Insulate Crawl
Spaces and Attics
More than ever before, the ability
to save money and lower power bills have become a major selling point for all
potential buyers. Although it is not a part of your property that will be seen,
insulated crawl space and attic will improve the resale value with ease.
Limiting the amount of heat and power loss through the crawl space and attic
means you can lower bills and keep your property as comfortable as possible
when it comes to heating and cooling utility bills.
Weatherproofing
Windows and Doors
The weatherproofing of a property is
something that is difficult to see but the ability to explain to a potential
buyer they will have few utility bills in the future will only add to resale
value. The sealing of gaps and cracks in windows and doors may not be the most
aesthetically pleasing project to undertake but it can bring excellent results
and lower utility bills.
Consider Air
Conditioning Upgrades
One of the most expensive and
important aspects of your home is the air conditioning unit which could be a
project adding value to your property. The latest green option for the majority
of the U.S. Homes is to undertake the installation of a whole-house fan that
lowers costs and provides an important way of upgrading a property for resale.
Home upgrades aren’t always centered
on new paint colors and cabinets. The non-visual aspects of home maintenance
are equally important. Consider the above four ways to upgrade your home and
add extra value.
The summer season is almost over. Procrastination has probably gotten the best of you, but you still have time to catch up with a few last-minute repairs. Weather-wise, summer is the perfect time for both outdoor and indoor home projects. You might want to focus on a few home improvements before winter knocks again. Warmer and more reliable weather with kids at home means you can manage tasks easily, especially if they include painting and staying out. Let’s take a look at four remodels to work on before summer ends.
Roof Repair
Experts recommend bi-annual roof inspections and maintenance. Summer is the ideal season to call in a contractor specializing in residential roofing. Have them inspect for damages and loose shingles on the roof. You might also want to repair simple patches, loose gutters, painting dull roof fittings, and fixing broken pieces on the roof. You could also combine the repairs with roof and gutter cleaning to ensure that you are set for the next year. If the damages are too severe, consider replacing the entire roof.
Upgrade Your Window Treatments
The right window treatments can help you cool or warm your house depending on the season. There’s a wide range of window treatments ranging from black curtains to motorized roller shades. The right window treatments should allow enough sunlight to your house for lighting purposes, which helps you conserve energy. They should also cut down dangerous UV light to keep your home cool. Pick pieces that will improve the general look and feel of your home.
Power Wash Your Home
The dry days are almost over. You endured the hot afternoons and dusty days. Your home is also a victim of the harsh weather. You might want to give it a power wash to bring back the sparkling effect and improve curb appeal. Consider hiring professional cleaners to help with the driveway, siding, and deck. You could also allow them to deep clean your home’s interior.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
The summer seasons tags along with some expensive energy bills mostly from heating and cooling systems. You could upgrade your thermostat into a programmable unit that automatically turns itself off when temperatures are cool and save some energy costs.
Take advantage of the time and conducive environment to make these four major home improvements. You don’t want a leaking roof in the middle of a rainy night during the coming seasons.
One of the most important decisions
you’ll have to make for your home is choosing the right HVAC system. Aside from
making your home life smooth and comfortable, the right system also reduces the
chances of having to deal with constant breakdowns and repairs. If you take the
time to choose theHVAC system that really suits your budget and
your lifestyle, you may be lucky enough to have it for life.
While personal preferences are
typically considered, it’s worth noting that you should prioritize
energy-saving features for your new HVAC unit. Although an energy-efficient
unit may cost more to install, savings on energy bills will soon become
apparent. Here are some other factors that you should consider when you’re
planning to get a new HVAC system:
Inspecting Your Old HVAC System
Before you have a new HVAC system
installed, you should first consider having your old unit inspected or
repaired. Professional technicians like those fromWinchester HVAC repair will be able to tell you whether
your current unit can still be repaired or you’re better off installing a brand
new one.
Additionally, a technician can also
give you qualified advice about the most appropriate HVAC system for your
current vent set-up and ducting. Your needs and preferences will be carefully
considered when they make recommendations.
Getting Quotes and Project Details
It’s recommended to get quotes from
two to three contractors to ensure that you’ll be able to go over your best
HVAC options. Also, don’t accept a quote from a contractor if they haven’t gone
to your home and inspected your set-up. The questions you should consider
asking are:
What are the payment terms?
What is the estimated yearly cost of
your recommended HVAC unit? What are the maintenance measures that I must take
note of?
How long is your estimated timeframe
for this project?
What do other customers say about
your recommended unit?
What HVAC system does your company specialize in?
Choosing the Right HVAC Size
When it comes to HVAC systems,
bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. A system that is too big will be idle
most of the time, resulting in unpleasant levels of humidity in the house. On
the other hand, a system that’s too small will always be overcompensating just
to reach the optimal temperatures. In this case, you’d end up with an unreasonably
large energy bill.
Choosing Filter Types and Thermostat Options
Filters come in two types:
disposable and permanent. Most HVAC units are compatible with either of these
filters. When choosing which one is better suited for you, ask yourself if
you’re willing to spend time, effort, and money in cleaning them or if you’d
prefer to replace them every two months.
Thermostat options also come in two
variants: programmable devices and ones that you manually set yourself. There
are many advantages to using programmable devices but it may not be compatible
with your HVAC system. Ask your technician about all your possible options so
you can take care of your unit the right way.
Scheduling Maintenance
To prolong your HVAC’s lifespan,maintenance plans should always be kept in mind.
Hence, it’s worth noting if maintenance plans and warranties are included in
the contractor’s price quote. Although it may initially cost more, the fees
will end up being cheaper over time compared to an installation project that
doesn’t have it.
Generally, technicians will visit
your home twice a year to evaluate your HVAC system and see if anything should
be fixed. For best results, ask your technician about the recommended
maintenance schedule for your particular unit.
Preparing Your Home for HVAC Installation or Repair
When you’ve finally decided on a
contractor and everything has been agreed upon, it’s time to get your home
ready for the work that has to be done. Make sure that the technicians have
enough space to do everything they have to do. They should be able to easily
carry their equipment from their vehicle to your home and back.
Once your new HVAC system has been
fully installed, you should take note of the following:
How often should my HVAC system be
checked and assessed by a professional?
How should the air ducts be cleaned? How often should I
clean them?
Almost half of a home’s energy bill
is associated with HVAC systems. Hence, carefully choosing your heaters and air
conditioners can help you save a huge amount of money in the long run.
In addition to being an unsightly
problem, mold can also be very harmful. Inhaling mold spores will increase your
risk of countless health complications ranging from asthma to sinus infections.
Those are just a few of the reasons why you need to come up with a
comprehensive plan for keeping mold and mildew out of your bathroom.
Open the Window
One of the easiest ways to ensure
that your bathroom remains mold-free is to open a window whenever you take a
shower or bath. Opening the window will allow all of the moist air to escape,
and mold won’t be able to grow if there isn’t any moisture. After your baths
and showers, you should make sure that the window remains open for at least a
few minutes. You can also open the door and turn on a floor fan to create a
breeze.
Install or Upgrade Your Vent Fan
In most states, you must install a
bathroom vent fan if the bathroom doesn’t have a working window. If you already
have a vent fan and the bathroom still seems humid, then you might want to
upgrade the unit. Vent fans are relatively easy to install, and you probably
won’t need anything more than a few basic tools as long as there is already a
vent duct.
Take Care of Leaks Right Away
Even a slow leak can do an
incredible amount of damage in a short period of time, and you must take care
of broken faucets and pipes right away. As a general rule, all of your shower
heads, fixtures, and pipes need to be inspected once every few weeks. If you
notice any signs of moisture damage, then you will need to hire a contractor
who offers basic plumbing
services. While you should be able to handle
clogs and other minor issues on your own, leaks must be taken care of by a
licensed plumber.
Regularly Disinfect All Surfaces
Another important step in this
process is thoroughly cleaning your bathroom as often as possible. Instead of
using over-the-counter cleaning products, you might want to make your own
disinfectant with a little bit of white vinegar and some warm water. Vinegar
quickly kills most germs, and it completely non-toxic. You can also add a few
drops of your favorite essential oil to the cleaning solution to give your
bathroom a pleasant smell.
If you notice larger patches of mold in your bathroom, then you need to call a mold remediation company right away. Mold spores can circulate through your home in the blink of an eye, and ongoing exposure is going to impact your family’s health and well-being.
Guest post by:
Anica Oaks
Freelance writer and web enthusiast Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.
Do you worry when your lights flicker? Or do you just accept
that it is normal for that to happen on a regular basis? Sometimes flickering
lights are harmless and are a normal occurrence as part of the electrical
system and cannot be entirely eliminated. But if they happen too often, it is
time to call an electrician to come in for some testing and resolution if there
is a serious electrical problem that could possibly start a fire.
Try to Figure Out the Cause
Flickering lights are from a fluctuation or reduction in the
household voltage that makes the lights dim for a moment. Pay attention the
next time that happens so that you can try to narrow down the underlying cause.
A simple solution is to change or tighten the bulb. If that is not the answer,
and you fear that it may be another issue, do not attempt to fix it yourself.
It is important to have a professional electrician determine the cause and use
the correct equipment and expertise to fix it.
Large Appliances
If your lights flicker when your air conditioner or clothes
washer or dryer or the refrigerator or another large appliance goes on, that is
usually because a heavy demand is put on the electrical service. This may be
more than a nuisance if the increased current draw causes wiring, breakers,
connectors, or other electrical equipment to overheat, which presents a
possible risk of fire.
Wiring Can be At Fault
Defective wiring is another possible cause. Loose
connectors, undersized breakers, or damaged wires can cause intermittent
current losses. If there is a mixture of aluminum and copper wires, special
connectors have to be used where the two types meet. The wrong connectors can
corrode and cause problems. Having an electrician examine your wiring can
quickly reveal if this is the problem and may only need an initial estimate to
determine.
Overloaded Circuits
Be warned against plugging wall air conditioners,
microwaves, washing machines, or dryers into extension cords or power strips.
These appliances must be plugged directly into their own outlets. If there
aren’t enough outlets, an electrician can add extra ones. Be aware that
this is not a DIY project, and that you should let a professional install any
new circuits or outlets.
Any electrical
work in your home should be done by a certified electrician to reduce the
risk of electrocution. Professionals have the tools and training they need to
handle your wiring safely. Take the time to compare different services and
electricians in your area and focus on ones that offer free initial estimates.
If you live in a house that was built around 1970 or before, you’ll probably start seeing some telltale signs of its age. You can easily remedy these symptoms and prevent them from recurring, although some may be costly.
If you’re able to take out a home equity loan, some of these fixes are well worth the investment to keep your home in top shape. Other remedies are simple upgrades and replacements that are good do-it-yourself projects to save money.
Upgrade the wallpaper
If you walk into a room and start having 60s flashbacks, it’s time to change the wallpaper or apply a fresh coat of primer and paint to bring it current.
Many older homes have seriously outdated wallpaper or possibly 60s or 70s style murals painted on the walls. If you think you may sell your home in the future, you definitely want something fresh.
Get rid of the wood paneling
Unless you designed your home to have the look and feel of a rustic cabin, there is no need for the old wood paneling anywhere in your home. You can remedy this by replacing the wood paneling with shiplap. Shiplap will give your home a beautiful upgrade that will withstand the test of time.
Replace the Carpet
Even the most expensive carpet will age as the home ages, especially in heavily trafficked areas. If you or the previous owner had small kids or animals, the carpet no doubt took a beating over the years. If replacing the carpet isn’t in your budget, you may want to consider tearing the carpet out and refinish the wood flooring underneath.
You can also opt for faux or laminate wood flooring instead of refinishing the old original wood flooring in the house to bring your home up to date and hide its age.
Upgrade the Windows
Time for an upgrade. Or maybe your house doesn’t have any shutters at all. Adding or replacing old shutters with aluminum shutters will do wonders for the appearance of older homes.
You may need to replace the older windows too so the new shutters won’t look as though you’re trying to distract from the old windows.
These are just a few of the visible signs of an aging home that are relatively easy to fix. If you’re inspecting an older home with the intention of buying it, you also need to look into the home’s electrical, plumbing and heating systems and look for any signs of termite or flood damage.
If your home was well cared for, these simple fixes may be all you need to bring your home out of the dark ages.
Although you might receive a warning about a natural disaster that’s headed to your area, you might not know the severity of how it will impact your home. With a little planning, you can prepare your home so that it can withstand the high winds or flooding rains that occur with a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or a snowstorm. Keep in mind that there are some disasters that you can’t prevent and that could overtake your home, but you can still plan ahead and prepare to keep your family safe.
Secure the Windows
One of the first areas of your home that you can start with when you want to prepare your home for a natural disaster would be the windows. If there are high winds outside, then anything can get blown through the glass and damage your home. Storm windows are a good option as they are often thicker and offer more support than traditional windows.
Basement Security
There are a few things that you can do with your basement to prepare for a disaster. This is a location in your home where you can store a supply kit and create a safe area for your family. You can also focus on basement waterproofing so that the belongings that you store for your safety aren’t damaged and to keep the foundation of your house from being damaged by water.
Strapping Down
Whether it’s an earthquake or a disaster with high winds, you can prepare the belongings in your home by strapping them down so that they are as protected as possible. Make sure your water heater and other large appliances are secured to the wall or the floor so that they don’t shift around as much during a disaster. You can also attach flexible connections to appliances that require gas so that they can easily be disconnected from the energy source if needed. Your television and other valuable electronics can also be secured to the walls to keep them in place.
Generators
Sometimes, you might lose power for a few days during a disaster. If this happens, you can be prepared by having a generator in your home. Your generator can be used for the basic electrical components that you need to operate until the power is restored. This simple device can help to keep you warm and allow you to cook for your family.
You never know exactly what a disaster will bring. It could be several days of cold weather and snow or could involve high winds and downed trees. If you’re prepared for any disaster, then you can focus on keeping your family safe and secure during the event.
Your house cannot talk to you if it needs fixing; however, it gives you different signs if something wrong. Your windows are a particularly communicative element of your residence. Although they do not last forever, well-maintained and high-quality windows can last for two decades or even more.
Windows are tough but they aren’t immune to wear and tear or deterioration. Even if you give them the highest level of care, a window replacement or upgrade may still be necessary eventually.
So if your windows are more than a decade years old, you must listen to what they are trying to tell you. This way, you will know when they must be replaced or upgraded. Here are some of the important signs to watch out for.
1. Your energy bill becomes remarkably high
Your windows will provide some heat during the cold months by letting in sunlight. But if you have drafty windows, your energy bills can increase by up to 25 percent.
So it is a must for you to replace and upgrade them and opt for energy-efficient windows. Storm windows, caulking, and weatherstripping can be used to prevent air leakage from outside.
However, you should not assume that all windows are created equal. It is crucial for you to consider your specific needs, especially your location. Consult reputable window specialists in your area to know which types of windows best suit your property.
2. They are broken, damaged or warped
There are instances where repairing windows is more practical than replacing them entirely. If your windows need new hardware or weatherstripping, a repair can be the best option. But for damaged, broken, or warped window frames or sashes, window specialists recommend replacement instead of repair. With repair work, your windows may remain operable but they will surely develop problems sooner.
3. Noise easily penetrates your home interior
Aside from cold air, sound can also penetrate through failing windows.
If you are living in a warm climate, you may notice the noise before you even notice a draft. Most property owners who have invested in new windows claim an increased sense of quietness, which is a major advantage if your home is close to highways or airports or is located in a busy neighborhood.
A double-pane window does well in blocking sounds and offers an added buffer zone between your home’s interior and exterior.
4. It feels drafty
One of the warning signs that your windows need replacement is discomfort. If you feel air coming through a closed window, the seals are already failing.
Remember that slight draft is not a minor issue because it can throw off the temperature indoors, making your HVAC system work harder just to keep up.
Though you may use insulating curtains, weatherstripping, and caulk to stave off heat loss, these are not permanent solutions. The best thing you can do to a drafty window is to replace it.
5. Condensation builds up in between glass panes
If your windows fog up and there is condensation build-up inside their glazings, you are looking at seal failure. Moisture enters the space in between the glass panes if the seals fail.
You may even notice some ice and frost build-up during the colder months. When your window seal is broken, its insulating capacity is extremely compromised. Window replacement is your only option.
6. You have trouble opening or closing windows
Stuck windows are not just an annoyance but are a potential hazard as well. A closed window may refuse to open in case of an emergency while an open window may suddenly slam shut.
If your windows’ open/close mechanisms are poorly functioning, this is a sign that your windows are out of balance. This can leave your home vulnerable to water, air and other particles getting in and out of your property.
By replacing worn-out windows, you can definitely create a more reliable, stronger barrier between you and your home exterior.
A window replacement project can be costly, but it is worth it. New windows can help you save money on your monthly energy bills, and add to your level of comfort at home. You can actually get years of quality service from properly installed windows. If you are lucky, you might not even worry about replacing your windows in the duration of your stay in your house.
However, if you ever need to replace your windows, make sure to have them installed by reputable window manufacturers. This is your best guarantee that your windows will leave you worry-free for decades to come.
AUTHOR BIO
Carmen Velilla is an experienced Brand Manager currently overseeing the strategic development of multiple brands as part of the Epwin Group. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), specializing in Corporate Communication and Digital Marketing.
