Some home improvements make your home look better. Some are more for maintenance, and others are to increase energy efficiency, add living areas, or improve your lifestyle. From mundane to fun, summer is the best time for home improvements. Take a look at this list and see if there are any to-dos that you can get done.
9 Home Improvements and Repairs to Make This Summer
1. Power Wash
There’s nothing uglier than a home with mildew on the side of it. It’s usually on the north side where the sun doesn’t shine for long. But a quick hit with a power washer and some mildew removing detergent will have your home looking good as new. Power washers are also great for removing ground in grime from sidewalks, patios, driveways, porches, and foundations too.
2. Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a smart move for comfort, energy savings and lowering the energy bill. Installing ceiling fans allows you to keep the air conditioner turned up a few extra degrees without feeling warmer. It’s the wind chill effect – it is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by the effects of wind and cold. As the “wind” (moving air from the fan blades) increases, the body is cooled at a faster rate causing the skin temperature to drop.
3. Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause major problems with roof leaks, mold, and even structural damage if left for too long. Gutters should be cleaned twice a year. Clear large debris such as leaves and branches out and then hose gutters down to get rid of dirt and smaller debris like grit from shingles. Make sure to check the downspout for clogs and inspect the gutters for cracks, sags, or signs of rust. If gutters are in bad shape, you may need to replace them so they don’t cause damage to your home.
4. Build a Deck/Patio
Adding a deck or patio is one of the bigger projects, but definitely one of the more exciting changes you can make. It increases your home’s space, value, and enjoyment. You can spend more time together with family and friends and get outside and enjoy the season.
5. Conduct a Home Energy Audit
There are companies who perform professional energy audits and they can tell you exactly where your home’s energy inefficiencies lie. But you can also do your own home energy audit to make it more comfortable or energy efficient. Simple things such as sealing leaks around drafty windows and doors, installing additional insulation (especially in the attic), and inspecting ductwork for leaks and sealing them will all help your home feel better and waste less energy. Don’t forget to change the furnace filter!
6. Inspect the Roof
The average lifespan of a roof is about 20 years. That doesn’t mean all roofs will last that long. Look for any broken or cracked shingles, any areas that look weathered or curled on the edges. If you experience standing water every time it rains, or you’ve noticed any leaks or water stains on your ceiling, it’s best to call a professional inspector. Catching roof problems early can prevent costly repairs later on.
7. Replace Old Drafty Windows
This is another job that’s on the bigger side and you’ll have to hire professionals to do it, but it will not only make your home look better and feel better, but it will raise the value of your home as well. Homeowners usually know when they need to replace their windows and summer is the best time to do it. New windows will make your home more energy efficient and lower energy bills. Here are the top three things to consider before buying windows.
8. Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Take some time to walk around your home and inspect the exterior walls. If you notice any peeling paint, cracks, sagging panels, mold growth, small holes, or any other damage to the walls or siding. Catching these problems early will help prevent wood rot (especially around windows) which can be costly to repair before painting. You may need to repaint, or you may decide to upgrade to new siding. Doing either will maintain your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Adding siding will also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Here are some siding tips.
9. Install New Doors
Entry doors are the gateways to your home and create a lasting first impression of your most important investment. An eye-catching front door will enhance your home’s perceived value. You will have a hard time finding a more beautiful investment in your home and return on your money. Plus, they will make your home more energy efficient. Here are 11 things you won’t get when you buy a door from a big box store.
All-Weather Windows, Doors, and Siding can help with quite a few of these home improvement projects. You can trust us for quality products and excellent installation. For over 30 years, we have served the KC metro area and now have a customer base of over 40,000 satisfied customers. We are proud of the reputation for quality we have built over the last three decades and we’d love to help you make your home more beautiful and energy efficient.
