Do you have some renovation projects that have been weighing heavily on your mind? When's the right time to get started? Rather than putting off your more involved projects, consider scheduling them during the most appropriate time of year. There are times when certain remodeling and repair projects are cheaper as well as easier.
Here's a breakdown of the most popular renovation projects, separated by season.
During the Winter: It's Time for a Remodel
Outside, complete some landscaping like pruning trees. Winter is a good time to do this because many of your trees and bushes will be dormant. It also keeps things like dead or broken branches from potentially damaging your home or a neighbor's home.
Inside, it's time for some serious remodeling. Interior painting, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, and other types of large, structural renovation are all going to be more cost-effective during winter. Very few people commit to serious renovations during the winter months, which means both labor and materials are usually cheaper. Of course, that also means you may need to work a little harder to find contractors who are willing to take the job.
During the Spring: Get Ready for the Summer
Outside, it's time to get started on any projects that you couldn't do during the winter but that you still want done before the summer. If you want to install or repair a pool or deck, now is the time. You may also want to do any fence work you've put off: repair, replace, or add fences during the spring. If you've experienced any weather-related issues, like roof damage or gutter damage, get them fixed before the summer. Patios and patio enclosures can be installed and upgraded during the spring, in time to enjoy them.
If there's planting to be done for your landscaping, this is usually the ideal time. Flowers, shrubs, and trees often root well when planted during this time.
Inside, it's the perfect time to take a look at your HVAC system. If your system was weak over winter, repair it now. If you're worried about your air conditioner lasting through the hot summer, it's time to get quotes on a repair or replacement. Most HVAC systems last between 15 to 25 years; if it's at the end of its lifespan, it may need a replacement.
During the Summer: Prepare for Cooler Months
Outside, repair or replace any old windows. If your windows are on the older side, it's possible that they aren't as energy-efficient as they could be. There are new advancements to insulation and window to technology that can reduce your heating and cooling bills. You can also check the areas around your windows for gaps and make sure that your doors aren't letting cool air escape. Keep your doors looking nice with some basic maintenance. Consider replacing your entryway doors entirely if they're old or if you want to refresh the style of your home.
Inside, inspect and repair the fireplace and chimney. Take some time to do thorough cleaning and identify small things that need to be done around the house, such a replacing trim or baseboards. Get your water heater maintained and inspected, especially if it is older, and consider replacing it if it's experiencing issues or is older than 20 years old.
During the Fall: Think About Energy Savings
Fall is the time to think about getting ready for winter. Outside, replace any worn weather stripping in doorways. Check to make sure doors are properly insulated and repair or replace any damage. Inspect landscaping for areas that need to be pruned, cleaned up, or cut back. Inspect the roof for any damage throughout the year that needs to be addressed before the winter. Clean the gutters and inspect them for any damage that has to be repaired.
Inside, make sure the door between the garage and the rest of the house is also insulated. If necessary, consider adding insulation to your attic. Blown-in insulation can be added within an evening and will improve the energy-efficiency of an HVAC system. If your furnace needs to be replaced, this is a good time to do so: a furnace usually needs to be replaced after 20 to 25 years.
In general, big projects should be done in the late winter and early spring—during the holidays, when most people aren't investing a lot of work into their home. Otherwise, you should keep an eye out on weather-related damage to repair and improvements you can make throughout the year, while also maintaining your landscaping and exterior season by season. Don't underestimate the impact of making small, measured changes throughout the year, as these changes will add up.
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