This year marks a new beginning and everyone, including homeowners, try hard to set resolutions they can keep. As a homeowner, one of your top priorities is to keep your home looking good and efficient. The following are the top 10 home improvement resolutions you should consider for the New Year:
1. Roof Replacement
Your roof is a critical part of your home you cannot afford to let go. Damaged roofs can cause many issues in the rainy season and a poorly damaged roof can be the cause of a lot of heat loss. If a roof replacement is needed, it should be at the top of your priorities for 2014.
2. Insulation
Upgrading the insulation in your home is going to do wonders for your heating and cooling costs. Many homes, especially older homes, have insufficient insulation or the wrong grade of insulation for the area they are located. This is one resolution that will earn you money back.
3. HVAC System
To keep your energy costs down, it is important to get your HVAC system serviced at least once a year. Anything less will result in a system that must work harder to heat or cool your home. Should your system be outdated and functioning improperly, now would be a good time to replace it.
4. Flooring
Your flooring may not be your top priority, but there are many benefits to replacing it. It will increase your home’s value, improve its appearance and, it can allow you the opportunity to inspect your home for damage. Choosing not to replace your flooring could result in major damage and costs that could have been avoided.
5. Upgrade Appliances
Outdated appliances will easily cause your energy bills to rise. Refrigerators, stoves, and even water heaters can use an excessive amount of energy. Replacing them will keep your home operating costs much lower.
6. Interior Painting
Repainting your interior will not reduce energy costs, but it will give your home a fresh appearance. This home improvement is especially important if you are considering selling your home in 2014.
7. Exterior Painting
Painting the exterior of your home is another home improvement project with many benefits. It will improve your curb appeal, which is important when you are selling. Along with this, it will add more value as it is one less thing that should be done.
8. Upgrade Lighting
Changing outdated lighting fixtures is another way to improve your home’s appearance and value. Along with this, upgrading fluorescent lighting will greatly reduce your energy costs.
9. Landscaping
Spending some time on the landscaping in 2014 will also greatly increase your home’s value. A patio or outdoor cooking space will also increase the livable area of your property, making the outdoors a great place to hangout.
10. Go Green
Whether you choose to add solar panels, more energy efficient appliances, or an energy efficient heating system, going green will help you to save money, as well as reducing your footprint on the earth.
