Home upgrades are ideal for improving your living space and increasing your property’s value. More American homeowners have invested in home upgrades in recent years despite the COVID-19 disruption. According to a 2022 survey by the NRA, 83% of surveyed homeowners planned to renovate their homes despite the pandemic.
From small changes to major renovations, there are countless options to improve your family home. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the top home upgrades you can add to your home to make it more functional, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you want to make your home more comfortable or increase its resale value, you will find something worth considering.
1. Upgrade Your Roof
One of the most crucial ways to improve your family home is by upgrading your roof. A new upgraded roof will enhance your home’s appearance and improve its functionality. A new roof can also increase your property’s value by up to 10%.
There are various elements to consider when upgrading your roof. One of the most important is upgrading your flashing. Flashing is the weather-resistant barrier installed in joints and seams in the roof to prevent water infiltration. An upgraded flashing will ensure your roof is water-tight and protect your home from potential damage.
You should also consider upgrading to a metal roof. Metal roofs have become increasingly popular among homeowners and roof contractors in recent years due to their durability. According to Forbes Home, metal roofs can last up to 80 years, twice or thrice longer than traditional asphalt shingle roofs. They are also highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and energy efficient. According to Engineering Civil, they can help homeowners save up to 40% in cooling expenditures and between 10-15% in heating costs.
Another great way to upgrade your roof is by installing a skylight. Skylights are a great way to add natural light to your home while increasing its value at the same time. They are also highly energy efficient by reducing the need for artificial lighting, which helps homeowners save on energy costs.
2. Enhance Your Garden Space
Enhancing your garden space is yet another way to improve your family home significantly. A beautiful garden can transform your property into a peaceful and serene haven, improving its functionality and appearance. According to the Virginia Cooperate Extension, a well-maintained garden can increase your home’s perceived value by up to 12.7%.
There are various ways to enhance your garden space, from simple landscaping projects to more complex additions like a pond or fountain. For one, you can add some greenery and color to your garden. Planting grass, flowers, and shrubs will boost your curb appeal and help reduce erosion on your property.
Home Beautiful offers great options, such as ground cover plants, ornamental grass, and trailing plants. While adding greenery seems straightforward, considering climate, soil type, and plant coexistence can complicate your choices. Therefore, seeking a professional landscape contractor to help you is wise.
Another great addition to your garden is a water feature like a pond or fountain. Water features can add an element of tranquility to your outdoor space, making it the perfect place for relaxation and unwinding after a long day. They also attract wildlife, such as birds and butterflies, making your garden more vibrant.
Garden sprinkler services are essential when upgrading your home garden space. Sprinkler systems will help maintain your garden and keep it green, lush, and vibrant all year round. They also save you time and effort by taking over the tedious task of watering your plants manually.
3. Create an Outdoor Living Space
Outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and for a good reason. They create an additional area to entertain guests, relax with family, or enjoy some alone time. Creating an outdoor living space can significantly improve your family home and increase its value.
There are various options when creating an outdoor living space. One of the most recommended options is building a deck. A deck adds to your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. It also creates a multipurpose outdoor space that you can use for dining, lounging, or even as an outdoor kitchen.
According to Forbes Home, building a deck will cost you about $7,500, on average. However, this is dependent on the materials you use and design. An ideal deck contractor will recommend building a wooden deck due to its natural look, affordability, and ease of customization. Depending on your preference, you can choose from different types of wood, such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. It is also essential to consider the size and location of your deck to maximize its functionality.
Alternatively, you can build a backyard patio. A patio is a paved outdoor space usually attached to the house, making it easily accessible from indoors. As with decks, patios are highly customizable and can be designed to fit your specific needs and budget. They also add aesthetic appeal and value to your property.
For both decks and patios, you can enhance them further by adding some furniture, such as outdoor seating, a dining table, and an umbrella for shade. You can add some plants and lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
4. Install a Pool
Installing a pool is another way to improve your family home significantly. Ruby Home reports over 10.7 million pools in the US, with 10.4 million being residential. A pool provides an excellent space for family bonding and hosting gatherings. It also adds an element of luxury and fun to your property, which can significantly impact your home’s value.
However, there are various things you have to consider before installing a pool. First, determine the pool type that best suits your budget and needs. You can opt for an above-ground pool or an in-ground one, depending on your preference.
Typically, above-ground pools are less expensive to install, costing an average of $2,850, according to Forbes Home. They are also semi-permanent, which means you can move them if needed. On the other hand, in-ground pools are usually more durable and customizable. However, these come at a higher cost, averaging between $28,000 to $55,000, as reported by Home Guide.
Moreover, it is important to consider the space available. This factor will dictate the size and style of the pool you can install, which may affect the installation cost. Most local pool builders also recommend carefully considering the material used to build the pool. Concrete is the most durable and expensive material, while vinyl and fiberglass are more affordable options.
5. Install Cooling and Heating
Improving your family home goes beyond aesthetics. It is about creating a comfortable space for your loved ones to live in and enjoy. A home without proper cooling and heating can be uncomfortable for its occupants. Such a house can be uninhabitable, especially in extreme weather conditions. Therefore, installing a cooling and heating system is one of the most essential home improvement projects you can undertake to improve your family home.
When considering air conditioning, you can choose from central air conditioning, window units, and ductless mini-split systems. Each has different advantages and costs depending on the make and AC company. Bankrate reports that installing central air conditioning can cost between $3,800 to $8,000. Window units are cheaper but may be less effective at cooling larger spaces.
Heating systems also come in different forms, such as furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps. The cost of installing these units varies depending on the type and size. According to Architectural Digest, a new furnace costs around $4,696, while a heat pump averages around $5,900.
It is essential to consider the efficiency of these systems when choosing one for your home. A more efficient system may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run through reduced energy bills. According to Forbes Home, furnaces are the most efficient heating systems. Contact your local heating services company to find out which option is best for your home.
6. Upgrade Your Garage
Upgrading your garage is another home improvement project that can increase the functionality of your property. One of the ways to improve your garage is by upgrading the garage door. There are six most common types of garage doors. These include a sectional, roll-up, slide to the side, side-hinged, tilt-up, and over canopy/retractable.
While sectional doors remain the most popular choice, you can upgrade to other options. Roll-up, tilt-up, and over-cannon are especially great choices for aesthetic appeal. Moreover, you can also opt for a smart garage door opener, which allows you to monitor and control the opening and closing of your garage door using your smartphone.
In addition to a new garage door, you should also upgrade the flooring in your garage. Concrete flooring is standard in most garages, but you can opt for other materials such as tiles, epoxy flooring, or rubber mats. These options are easier to maintain and add a touch of elegance to your garage.
Also, consider adding storage solutions to keep your garage organized and clutter-free. Various options are available, such as cabinets, shelves, and overhead storage systems. Additionally, invest in a workbench for DIY projects or a designated area for sports equipment and tools. Such installations can significantly improve your family home by increasing the functionality of your garage.
7. Invest in a Security System
A home security system is one of the best investments you can make for your family’s safety and peace of mind. No matter where you live, burglaries and break-ins are a looming risk. Therefore, taking the necessary precautions to protect your family and property is crucial.
Various home security systems are available on the market. You can choose from basic DIY systems to professionally monitored ones. Basic systems are affordable and easy to install compared to their counterparts. They typically include door and window sensors, motion detectors, and cameras you can install yourself. According to The New York Times, Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro are the market’s most effective smart DIY security systems.
On the other hand, professionally monitored systems involve a monthly fee and 24/7 professional monitoring. These systems are more sophisticated and can include additional features such as fire and carbon monoxide detectors. ADT, Brinks, and SimpliSafe are some of the top-rated, professionally monitored security systems.
When choosing a security system, consider your budget, the size of your home, and the features that will significantly improve your family home. Some features to look out for include remote access, video surveillance, and a gate and entry system. Contact a home security company to find out which option is best suited for your home.
8. Ensure Your Plumbing is Up to Date
Plumbing problems are a nightmare for homeowners. These issues can disrupt your daily routine and result in costly repairs, from leaky faucets to clogged drains. Therefore, ensuring that your plumbing system is up to date and functioning correctly is essential.
The first step in ensuring your plumbing is up to date is by conducting regular maintenance checks. Look for signs of leaks, rust, and corrosion in your pipes and fixtures. A plumbing professional can conduct a more thorough inspection and identify potential problems.
Besides regular checks, you can improve your family home by replacing old pipes with newer materials such as copper or PEX. These materials are more durable and less prone to leaks than older materials like galvanized steel. According to Forbes Home, PEX and copper piping can last up to 40 and 50 years consecutively.
You can also upgrade your fixtures to more water-efficient options, such as low-flow faucets and toilets. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, low-flow faucets can help you save an average of 700 gallons annually. Therefore, such an upgrade can make your home more efficient and save you a lot of money.
Another essential aspect of plumbing maintenance is proper drainage. Clogged drains can significantly damage your pipes and cause costly repairs. Installing drain covers and being mindful of what goes down your drains can prevent clogs. You can also consider scheduling regular drain cleaning services with a professional plumber.
There are many home upgrading projects that you can undertake to improve your family home. Such projects bring comfort to your home and add long-term value to your property. However, it is essential to carefully consider your budget, needs, and the best options available before embarking on any project. Contact home improvement professionals for expert advice and assistance in implementing your desired changes.
