Awnings affordable home improvement
There蘑菇视频 no need to break the bank if you want to upgrade an older home.
Many people find they need more living space or they want to improve energy efficiency. Others decide to clean up the exterior, making it more attractive.
Some of these projects can lead to spending large amounts of money. However, there are ways to make upgrades to older homes that won鈥檛 cost that much and will make a significant improvement in overall livability.
And, while more expensive kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects lead most home upgrades, Mike Shimko, president of the Builders Association of Fayette County said, there are other, less costly things homeowners can do.
鈥淎 fresh coat of paint, new carpeting, windows, doors, floor coverings can all add value. Appealing landscaping and keeping the driveway in good condition add value. Even a finished basement or mudroom can add value to the house,鈥� Shimko said.
Changing out fixtures like faucets and shower doors to increase aesthetic appeal adds spice to an inexpensive makeover.
If you鈥檙e on a budget, replacing light fixtures or switch plates can help refresh the space.
For those on a budget, examining room layout and d茅cor can lead to saving money in heating and cooling bills. By making sure that heating and cooling vents aren鈥檛 blocked by drapes, chairs or cabinets and installing carpeting (wall-to-wall or area rugs) a home蘑菇视频 energy costs can be lowered.
And, for those considering an addition to their home, a fabric canopy or awning over a deck or patio is a great long-term solution to expand needed living space at a low cost, according to the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association.
鈥淏e it an outdoor kitchen, living room or simply a covered deck or patio, you can make better use of your existing outdoor spaces with awnings,鈥� advised the association.
鈥淎nd adding awnings and solar shades to your home can extend the life of your air conditioner and save you money on energy bills for years to come.
Recent data indicates that the shade provided by this retrofit can help reduce cooling costs in some parts of the country by more than 50 percent,鈥� according to the association.
鈥淲indow and doorway awnings also provide an affordable and quick boost of curb appeal by complementing your home with splashes of color and adding drama and impact to an otherwise ordinary fa莽ade. Consider echoing the architecture of a traditional residence or complementing more modern-styled homes,鈥� the association said.
More information about how to upgrade your home with awnings can be found online at www.AwningInfo.com.
Other ways to gain space and expand the home蘑菇视频 living area include organization.
By making a sweep every few days to remove unused or unwanted items, clutter can be kept at a minimum.
Also, use narrow, tall shelving for storage and look for other vertical storage applications. Some furniture can be used for storage if there are pull-out drawers or shelves as well as under-used areas of the home. For example, placing hooks and a bench in the foyer can add space for coats, shoes and other outdoor garb.
Not to be overlooked is the exterior of the home.
According to Remodeling Magazine, improving outdoor spaces can increase a home蘑菇视频 resale value dollar-for-dollar.
Budget-conscious ways this can be done are by framing the front walkway with items that add visual interest, like flowers, potted plants, rocks of various sizes and solar-powered lights. Hanging plants are another low-cost option.
Remodeling Magazine also recommends that basement improvements can optimize livable space and protect the home from extreme weather, mold, moisture damage and mites.
Visiting local home improvement centers can provide ideas for further changes.
to an older home without spending a lot of money.