Choosing the right upgrades for your property can be overwhelming because there are so many options. One way to select the ones you want to pursue is to look at upgrades that will increase your property values or save you money over time. Here are some upgrades you can incorporate into your home and yard to help you save money.
New Window Treatments
Window treatments may seem like a small thing, but they play a significant role in how the home is maintained. Thermal curtain fabric helps to insulate the home, keeping it from growing hot or cold thanks to the heat that comes in through an unlocked window. If you have an active, busy household with children, blinds might be a better choice, as they can be easier to use and clean. Choose a durable material like wood, bamboo, or aluminum to stop breakage from occurring over time. Experts say that aluminum blinds are one of the most durable and longest-lasting window treatments, in addition to being low maintenance. You can get these blinds in multiple sizes to accommodate any window that needs covering.
Reducing Water Consumption
Cutting the amount of water you use isn’t just good for the environment, it can save you money. Low flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can cut your water usage monthly by almost half. You can combine this with appliances designed to use less water, like energy-efficient dishwashers or water heaters. This combination of water-saving features is sure to save you money and can help you appeal to environmentally conscious buyers when you list the home on the market in the future.
Add to the Existing Insulation
Extreme temperatures can send your energy costs through the roof, regardless of whether they are hot or cold. Adding insulation to parts of the home that don’t trap heat or cold air well, like the attic, allows the temperature in the home to stay more stable. One easy way to tell if your attic area needs more insulation is to do a visual inspection and see if the joists and framework are visible. If you can see the wood beams that make up the structure of the home, it can be a good idea to add more.
Programmable Appliances
According to industry experts, a central air conditioner has a lifespan of up to 20 years. If you have to replace your HVAC unit, choosing a modern one that incorporates the latest technology is a smart move. By choosing a programmable or smart thermostat to go with your HVAC unit, you can streamline the temperature in the home and stop overusing the unit. This will prolong the life of the system.
Replace the Roof
Rather than letting the roof get run down, replacing it as soon as you see the signs of wear and tear will prevent secondary damage from occurring. You can use a local contractor or business to repair and replace the roof surface and potentially get a discount on the cost of your roof replacement. Industry experts say that larger companies are infamous for offering lower introductory prices exclusively to new customers and ignoring the needs and wants of older clients. Using a small, locally-based company can give you a better result and make it easier to get help with any issues that crop up after the initial roof replacement.
By focusing on upgrades that help you save money over time, you can save on expenses while you live in the house and increase the value for when you are ready to resell.