There are many reasons for wanting to increase your home’s value, you could be planning to sell your home in the near future, you want to grow your home investment, or you would like to modernize your living space. Some factors that affect your home’s value but are out of your direct control are where your home is located, the local demand for housing, and the economy as a whole. However, there are aspects that you can control, here are 5 ways to directly add value to your home.
1. Window Replacement
Energy Efficiency
New windows will offer greater value if they are energy efficient. The Government of Canada has stated that uncertified windows, doors and skylights can be responsible for up to 25% of energy loss in your home. Certified windows will keep the air from escaping your home so your a/c or heating system won’t be running more than they have to. By upgrading to energy-efficient windows you can save on these energy costs every year. This feature will be a good selling point if you ever decide to sell your home.
Curb Appeal
The way your home looks from the outside has a large impact on the actual value of your home. Windows tend to be one of the first features people notice when they approach a home. Upgrading to new and modern windows that match your home’s aesthetic can directly boost curb appeal. And this translates directly to adding more value.
Interior Design – Not only do windows help the look of your home from the outside but they also improve the look of your interior space as well. Most homes tend to have at least one window in every room. In some cases, those rooms are furnished and decorated based on the shape of the room, the entryways, and the windows.
2. Installing New Doors
First Impressions
Before you enter any home, you come face to face with that home’s front door. It’s one of the first impressions anyone makes about your home before even entering. A faded and worn door may indicate that there are other parts of the home that may have wear and tear as well. An updated front door will make you feel happier with your home. You will be glad to step through the front door at the start of your day and when you return home in the evening.
Prevents Drafts
Along with many other parts of your home, your door is prone to wear and tear over time. Weatherstripping may begin to rot. The jamb and the door itself could become warped. Just like windows, a worn-out door can affect your home’s energy efficiency. Having a quality door is vital in the winter. Any sign of a draft around any exterior doors is an indication that they need attention.
3. Roof Installation
Exterior Appeal
A new roof can easily increase the value of your home because it has a direct impact on your home’s curb appeal. Along with all the other exterior features, your home’s roof adds to that first impression as someone passes by.
Modernize
Since roofs tend to be replaced every 15-25 years, older roofs may be lacking new technologies in construction and materials that did not exist when your roof was installed 15-20 years ago. There can be features that include different energy-efficient insulation materials and roof materials that provide extended warranties. All of which will add value to your home.
Energy Efficiency
Along with modernizing, a new roof can improve your home’s energy efficiency. In today’s market and trends of going green. Having a home that can keep itself warm or cool without overusing electricity is an important feature for many homeowners. This feature saves on utility bills because it controls how much heat gets in or out through the top of the house.
Protect the Air Quality in your Home
As a roof begins to age, there are concerns with leaks and water damage getting past the roof. Leaks and the buildup of moisture with an aging roof can pose a threat to anyone in the home. This can lead to the growth of mold. Which can affect the integrity of the roof and directly impact the quality of air in your home. A newly installed roof will help protect those living in your home.
4. Vinyl Siding
The beautiful appearance
While other home improvement products like windows, doors, and roofing are important and contribute to the overall look of a home. Changing the vinyl siding may have the largest impact on the appearance of your home. Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of profiles and colors that can create the desired look that you want. As a homeowner, you can enjoy the more beautiful and remodeled exterior while you live in your home. You can also get back most of your investment when it comes time to sell.
Durability that protects the home
Vinyl siding is built to protect homes from the elements. This kind of protection is important for homes in Canada where the winter months can be harsh and long. Vinyl siding is durable against high winds, force impacts and even helps prevent water damage. That added durability ensures your home is protected from the Canadian weather.
Low Maintenance
A common trend homebuyers look for is low-maintenance products that can give back precious time and money. For example, wood siding may have an appealing look to them but the time and money required to regularly repair and maintain that product can be a burden on a homeowner. On the other hand, vinyl siding requires low maintenance. Compared to other siding products, vinyl does not need to be painted or caulked. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water from a garden hose.
5. Exterior Renovations
As mentioned, some individual exterior upgrades can play a role in adding value to your home. Some common features from any exterior upgrade include adding to your home’s curb appeal and increasing energy efficiency. However, if your home’s outer appearance needs a revamp, a complete exterior renovation might be what you are looking for. This can be a great choice for older homes that have seen many years of wear and tear. By upgrading windows and doors, installing a new roof, and vinyl siding, the overall exterior renovations can add value to your home.