Spring Remodeling Projects for Desert Dwellers

Transform your desert dwelling to be more energy efficient this spring. Photo Credit: cogdogblog

Wildflowers are blooming and the hills are temporarily green with the rare rush of winter water into the desert. It is springtime, which in the desert means mild 90-degree days and cleaning out the swimming pool. The desert is unique for its relatively sunny winters and (coming all-too-soon) very hot summers.

That leaves the temperate and beautiful, if short spring for completing those remodeling projects unique to the desert dweller. April is already upon us and in the desert that means you'd better get going! Here are some ideas for remodeling projects for springtime in the desert:

1. Solar Pool Heating. Many desert pools are heated for night swimming and swimming in the colder winter months, but running a pool heater can be a huge tax on energy bills. So why not fix your pool up this spring with a solar pool heating system? Save money, save energy, and take advantage of that persistent desert sun.
2. Desert Landscaping. Water is scarce in the desert, but at the same time there are a lot of people (and golf courses) living in America's deserts. That has helped create a water shortage plaguing supplies and water bills throughout the Southwest. Therefore a great remodeling project for homeowners and their cities alike is a switch to desert landscaping. This lessens your need for water for a sprinkler system and reduces maintenance requirements. There is also the added beauty of a home that fits naturally into its environment, so this spring, trade in those carnations for cacti!
3. Increase Energy Efficiency. This could include an array of remodeling projects, but energy efficiency is especially important in the desert where extreme temperatures are the norm in the months following spring. An upgrade in your heating and cooling system is an obvious choice -- there's just no living without AC in the desert summer. Other projects include improvements in insulation, windows, doors, and the many benefits of desert solar power.

Don't forget to find out how the federal stimulus package could stimulate your spring remodel! Then receive quick, easy, and free estimates from certified local contractors.

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