Suggestions for Home Improvement Projects
With the calendar rolling over into the depths of spring we're finally seeing the end of another long and lonely winter with nothing to do but twiddle our thumbs. If you've been cooped up for months with cabin fever pressing in then you're more than likely looking for some home improvement ideas to get your hands busy. Here are a few popular home improvement ideas to keep you busy as you transition from spring to summer.
1. Check out the roof - The winter can be harsh on your roofing materials including the gutters, flashing, vents and chimney. You should inspect all of these for some kind of damage that can lead to damage of the internal structure of your home.
2. Inspect your Windows - Just like the roof, the windows of your home take a toll through the cold months with the expansion and compression of housing materials due to temperature variations. Check the weatherization of your windows, the condition of the caulk and go over your windows in search of drafts. If there's condensation or mildew growth then your windows aren't sealing properly.
3. Replace Windows - Even if your windows have served you well for years it's a good time to upgrade. Newer windows provide a better barrier against the outside world, new models of glass improve energy efficient and reduce heat transfer and better windows will eventually pay for themselves where energy cost is concerned.
4. Examine the Siding - Vinyl siding can crack with the temperature fluctuations in some areas. Check for cracking on your siding. For the many other types of siding check for pealing or cracking paint and touch up as needed.
5. Check your Foundation - As the snow piles on it can compress the ground around your home. This is made worse by overflowing gutters that drain against the home when the ice melts leading to saturation of the ground around your house. This causes the ground to erode and settle more, creating areas for water to collect. Make sure the ground still slopes away from the home to allow for proper drainage.
6. Check your Ceiling - Look for water spots in remote areas of the house such as in closets. Sometimes ice dams on the roof at the gutter line can cause water to back up and seep into your attic. If you find water damage, look for the source and correct the issue then repair the damage structure and ceiling.
Finally, hire a general contractor to work with you on improving your attic space for energy efficiency. Not only is replacing your insulation a good idea but you can work with them to install a radiant barrier that will help control heat gain and heat loss in your home throughout the year. With a good strategy for insulation you can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 20% or more. There's certainly no shortage of things to do in your home. Remember to always start with necessity and then work towards those luxury updates.
1. Check out the roof - The winter can be harsh on your roofing materials including the gutters, flashing, vents and chimney. You should inspect all of these for some kind of damage that can lead to damage of the internal structure of your home.
2. Inspect your Windows - Just like the roof, the windows of your home take a toll through the cold months with the expansion and compression of housing materials due to temperature variations. Check the weatherization of your windows, the condition of the caulk and go over your windows in search of drafts. If there's condensation or mildew growth then your windows aren't sealing properly.
3. Replace Windows - Even if your windows have served you well for years it's a good time to upgrade. Newer windows provide a better barrier against the outside world, new models of glass improve energy efficient and reduce heat transfer and better windows will eventually pay for themselves where energy cost is concerned.
4. Examine the Siding - Vinyl siding can crack with the temperature fluctuations in some areas. Check for cracking on your siding. For the many other types of siding check for pealing or cracking paint and touch up as needed.
5. Check your Foundation - As the snow piles on it can compress the ground around your home. This is made worse by overflowing gutters that drain against the home when the ice melts leading to saturation of the ground around your house. This causes the ground to erode and settle more, creating areas for water to collect. Make sure the ground still slopes away from the home to allow for proper drainage.
6. Check your Ceiling - Look for water spots in remote areas of the house such as in closets. Sometimes ice dams on the roof at the gutter line can cause water to back up and seep into your attic. If you find water damage, look for the source and correct the issue then repair the damage structure and ceiling.
Finally, hire a general contractor to work with you on improving your attic space for energy efficiency. Not only is replacing your insulation a good idea but you can work with them to install a radiant barrier that will help control heat gain and heat loss in your home throughout the year. With a good strategy for insulation you can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 20% or more. There's certainly no shortage of things to do in your home. Remember to always start with necessity and then work towards those luxury updates.
About the Author:
Whether you want a simple design or custom Virginia Home Improvement, we work closely with you to stick to your dream designs. Consult with a contractor today to talk about your next remodel - from windows to a newly remodeling Washington DC Basement. Paragon Remodeling - 8000 Towers Crescent Drive - Vienna VA 22182
Suggestions for Home Improvement Projects
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