We often think of spring as a time for new beginnings. Budding flowers, baby animals, and warmer temperatures – what’s not to love about the spring season? New beginnings also bring the excuse to finally try that home improvement project you’ve been thinking about (and putting off) all winter. Not sure where to begin? Start with one of our inspirational projects.
Clean It Out
The idea might not seem appealing, but a little spring-cleaning goes a long way. Before beginning any heavy-duty projects, take a simple home inventory. We all accumulate things we don’t need or no longer use. Take an afternoon and have every member of the family comb through their rooms for unwanted toys, clothes, and other items. Separate these items into two piles – one to donate and one to recycle.
As a family, tackle larger areas like the basement and the garage. Ridding your home of unwanted items will go a long way toward making it feel cleaner, brighter, and even larger. Consider new windows, by Able Roof in Columbus, to let in some light and open up your interior spaces.
Make Simple Swaps
It’s amazing how much a few simple improvements can elevate your home’s whole look. Tackle your projects room by room and use these ideas as inspiration:
Your bedroom: try a new coat of paint. Remember, soothing colors are most conducive to sleep, so try a soothing gray or tranquil blue. Bold hues are best for other areas of the home. Add a new headboard and rearrange your bedroom to complete the look.- Your home’s exterior: When done well, an exterior paint job can last 10 years or more, so take your time. Consider repainting your door, trim, shutters, and porch to take your house from drab to traffic-stopping. Just be sure your color scheme matches the existing siding and roof. If an exterior paint job isn’t in the works, rent a power washer and clean off what you’ve got. This will discourage the growth of mold and mildew, and keep your home looking sharp. Note that different siding types require different pressures: if you’re unsure of yours, consult with a professional.
- Your kitchen and bathrooms: Many homeowners don’t have the money for a full room overhaul, but a few simple changes can create a different mood. For example, consider switching your dated kitchen and bathroom hardware for something more modern. If you find your family is always fighting over the bathroom in the mornings, swap your single sink for a space-saving double and a new bathroom storage system. You’ll make your rooms more usable and efficient, without breaking the bank.
Get Outside
One of the best parts of warmer weather is the time we get to spend outside. Make sure your backyard is grilling-season ready by tending to your patio or deck. Depending on your budget, you may want to refinish your existing patio (sometimes a simple power wash will do). Invest in some brightly colored indoor/outdoor cushions to complete your outdoor look.
We can’t talk about your outdoor look without addressing your lawn. If you wince as you gaze out at your yard’s dry brown patches, it’s never too late to make a change. Replant regional seed blends and water your lawn as necessary (but keep in mind, your area might have water restrictions during droughts).
Take Care of Your Floors
Whether hardwood, laminate, or carpet, your floors get more than their fair share of use. After months of trekking in slush, ice melt, and grime, spring is the perfect time to repay the favor. Arrange for a steam cleaning for your carpets or consider refinishing, waxing, or polishing your wood floors. If these aren’t an option, a thorough cleaning with mild soap will do. Ridding your floors of built-up grime will make your house sparkle – and keep your family healthier.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
According to the Alliance to Save Energy, a well-maintained air conditioning unit will last longer and be more energy-efficient, which is better for your wallet and the environment. Schedule your seasonal tune-up now, before summer is in full swing. Clean or replace your air conditioning filters and consider investing in a programmable thermostat, which can save you money on your energy bills by adjusting the temperature while you’re away.
Don’t try to attempt all these projects at once; pick one area of your home at a time and make a weekend out of improvements. This will ensure you’re doing a good job that will last for years to come. If you’re not the handy or DIY type, consider soliciting the help of a friend, family member, or professional. For big jobs like a new roof, new windows, gutters, or siding consider the pros and cons of doing it yourself. At Able Roof you can get it all done in one place. We even offer a free estimate so you will know exactly what you are paying and exactly what you are getting. Happy home improving!
