Contrary to popular belief, winter can be a prime time for completing certain home improvement projects. Without outdoor activities, vacations, and other warm-weather distractions, you can get more accomplished in a shorter time. This time frame is also an end-of-the-year slowdown for many businesses and contractors, which means you can negotiate on labor costs and get materials at a discounted price. Winter home improvement projects are less focused on curb appeal and more on making your interior more comfortable, liveable, and energy-efficient. So, whether you've just moved in or are planning to add your home to the list of Ridgewood homes for sale in the spring, here are a few home improvement projects to complete in the winter.
Apply New Paint
Winter is a great time to give your home a burst of life with fresh paint or a change of color. That dry air that affects your skin in winter can help your paint to dry more quickly. You may find better deals at your local hardware store, and if you're hiring a professional painter, chances are you won't deal with scheduling delays. You can choose to focus on one area or repaint all the rooms in your house.
Seal up Cracks Around the House
Winter is a good time to investigate cracks in your home's outer walls, vents, doors, windows, and other openings. Use caulk, weatherstripping, waterproof sealants, or insulation to seal leaks and cracks. Keeping warmth in and cold out can slash 15% off your heating and cooling costs and keep more cash in your pocket. Plus, you'll be more comfortable in your home without the need for layers of blankets.
Install a Smart Thermostat
Thermostats have come a long way over the last few years. Before you crank up the heat this winter, consider installing a programmable thermostat. A smart thermostat will allow you to customize the heating and cooling of your home to fit your needs and make your heat usage more efficient. With different programming options available, this improvement project will enhance your quality of life and save you money right away.
Deep Clean Your Carpets
If your carpets took a beating from the influx of holiday activities, the first few months of winter are prime for getting professional deep cleaning. You'll likely get a cheaper quote, and your carpet will dry quicker in the winter. Also, consider replacing ripped, threadbare, or bulging carpets to make your home feel cozier for the rest of the snowy season.
Update the Laundry Room
While the laundry room is central to a household's day-to-day functioning, it suffers from a lack of features and poor organization. Make use of a winter weekend to make your laundry room more functional by putting a countertop or shelves over the washer and dryer. Thoroughly clean the space, add some well-placed hooks, and get a peel-and-stick wallpaper to turn your laundry room into a spot where you'll enjoy spending time.
Replace Door and Cabinet Hardware
Dial up the style in your home by replacing old and outdated pulls, handles, knobs, locksets, and faucets. Especially during the winter months when you're cooped up inside, new hardware can add a dash of color to your home, making it extra homey and cheerful. And this is one cheap and easy project you can do in a short amount of time.
This winter, don't hibernate waiting for the sun to start shining. Make your home a more inviting place and provide that fresh feeling buyers look for in a home on the market once spring arrives. Our agents can give you more tips on home improvement projects that will add value to your home and make the selling process as stress-free as possible. Contact us to get started.
