Home Improvements that Stand the Test of Time

From Brittany on August 5th, 2011 in General Remodel

The market for home improvements is heating up. Despite an economy that still precariously teeters on recession, home improvement jobs have steadily increased by an average of about 10%, according to a recent BuildFax Index report. Instead of moving, more homeowners are opting to upgrade their current homes.

Why? Part of the reason, at least, is because home improvement contractor prices continue to fall. More contractors are giving significant discounts and completing more work for less money, much of it because of the surge in demand for home improvements.

Hot areas around the home include:

• Window Replacement
• Bathroom Remodeling
• Air Conditioning & Heating
• Home Siding

To get pricing on a home improvement project in your area, click here.

And the best thing about upgrading any or all of these areas? Historically, they yield a greater return on investment than nearly any other area around the home. So it’s no wonder these renovations increase your home’s resale value substantially.

The Benefits

The benefits of home improvement, especially in this uncertain economy, really can’t be stressed enough. In addition to yielding a return on investment with plentiful energy savings (and an increase in your home’s net worth), there are more practical benefits. Use these guidelines to learn what your home stands to gain the most from.

Replacement Windows

Only second to replacing an old or inefficient air conditioning system is replacing old, drafty windows with — you guessed it — Energy Star-rated ones. In addition to the tax incentives available with these also, the energy savings new windows yield (due to better insulation and less use of the HVAC system) can be substantial.

Bathroom Remodeling

Install new, energy- and utility-efficient fixtures and practically upgrade elsewhere. Primary examples include water-efficient toilets (a 1.0 gallon-per-flush versus the standard 1.6, for example) and water-conserving sink faucets and showerheads. Replace old or broken plumbing fixtures. Consider new bathroom tiling, since even a cheaper synthetic product can do wonders. and paintwork. Go crazy.

Air Conditioning and Heating

In the case of an old or energy-hogging air conditioner, upgrade to an Energy Star model. In addition to saving up to 15% on energy costs yearly, there are a myriad of tax incentives and rebates that are attached to qualified Energy Star air conditioners.

Siding

This is one of the hottest seasonal improvements. Not only does new siding keep your home far better insulated than siding from yesteryear, but it will automatically increase its resale value as well as curb appeal. Take heed, though. Siding installation should be done with high-quality materials like vinyl, wood, or fiber cement.

Photo via Houzz