Preparing for Home Improvement Month
May is just around the corner which happens to be National Home Improvement Month. It’s the perfect time of year to start planning repairs, much-needed updates, and renovations to your home. National Home Improvement Month is a campaign that was created in 2002 by The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to inspire and encourage homeowners to take on home improvement projects. It takes place every May and provides homeowners with the resources and information they need to plan and execute successful home improvement projects. Whether you want to tackle a big project or just make a few small changes this is the best time to get started.
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Are Home Improvements Necessary?
You might look around your house and wonder if you really need to improve anything. Everything is in working condition and seems fine. Yet, there is always something that can be improved and during that process you might actually find hidden damage you were unaware of. Home improvement projects are an essential part of homeownership. They not only help to maintain and improve the value of your home but also enhance your quality of life. By making improvements to your home, you can create a space that is more comfortable, functional, energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
Things to Consider Before Renovation Begins
Many homeowners are hesitant to take on home upgrades or renovations because they don’t know where to start or they feel overwhelmed by the process. Let’s discuss some steps you can take before upgrading or renovating to make the process easier on you.
1. Have An Idea
Have a basic idea of what you would like to improve in your home. Are you wanting to make some minor upgrades, tackle needed repairs, or completely remodel a room? You don’t need to know all the ins and outs yet; just a simple idea of what you would like to do.
2. Set A Budget
Before you start your project, it's important to determine how much you're willing to spend. Consider the cost of materials, labor, and any unexpected expenses that might pop up. Be pragmatic about your budget and make sure the expense won’t put you in a financial bind.
3. Do Your Research
When hiring a contractor, do your research to ensure that you're working with someone reputable and experienced. Look for reviews and recommendations online, and ask the contractor for references from their previous clients. Also, make sure that whoever you hire is licensed and insured.
4. Get Permits If Needed
Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to obtain permits. Check with your city or county building department to find out what permits are required for your project. Fortunately, if you hire a remodeling company, they are knowledgeable in this area and will probably obtain the permits for you.
5. Prepare Your Space
Before beginning your project, make sure the space is ready for work. You might need to move out furniture, remove rugs, and take out any items that you need on a regular basis. You may need to set up a temporary living area especially if you are renovating a kitchen or bathroom.
6. Communicate
Once work has started, remain in daily communication with the project manager. You’ll feel more comfortable knowing the work timeline, if everything is on track, when the materials will arrive, and if any unexpected problems occurred.
7. Be Flexible
Home improvement projects can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. Stay flexible and open to making changes if necessary.
Home Improvement Ideas
National Home Improvement Month is a great time to tackle a wide range of home improvement projects. Whether you’re looking to make small changes or major renovations, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some projects may need to be done by professionals while others can be a DIY project you can accomplish yourself. Visit your local hardware store for more information on how to tackle a project yourself and what tools and materials you need. If it requires more skill than you have or you need to buy tools you’ll only use once; it’s probably best to hire a contractor to do the job. Here are some areas of the house that can be improved and which jobs are DIY and which need to be done by professional contractors.
Kitchen
Upgrading your kitchen can make a big difference in the look, functionality, and efficiency of your home.
DIY: Painting the walls and baseboards, changing out cabinet and drawer pulls/handles, replacing old appliances, buy a new kitchen table set, and adding splashes of color with new decor.
Contractors: Install new cabinets, replace countertops, install new lighting fixtures, install a new sink, tear down a wall to expand room, remove and install new flooring.
Bathroom
Bathrooms are another area of the home that can benefit from updates for style and safety reasons.
DIY: Paint the bathroom, change the cabinet hardware, new decor, and hang mirrors to make the room look bigger.
Contractors: Replace old plumbing fixtures, add more lights, install a new walk-in shower or tub, upgrade the flooring, install a new toilet, install grab bars for safety.
Bedroom
Bedrooms should be designed to be comfortable and promote a good night’s sleep.
DIY: Paint the walls and ceiling, buy a new bedroom set, buy a new mattress, change the drapes, install smart dimmable lights.
Contractors: Install new lighting fixtures, lay down new carpet, expand the room, build a walk-in closet.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Making your home more energy-efficient can lower your energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
DIY: Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models, use LED light bulbs, lower your thermostat, seal air leaks around windows and doors.
Contractors: Upgrade the insulation, install new windows, install a smart or programmable thermostat, insulate the attic, install a metal roof.
Alamo City Handymen is here for you once you’re ready to upgrade or remodel your home. We can handle any job no matter how big or small. We specialize in carpentry, flooring, painting, drywall installation, electrical, plumbing, and we can also take care of your home’s exterior needs like new siding, painting and building patio covers. Call us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your next project.
