Summer Home Improvements

According to a recent poll by Harris Poll, a majority of homeowners  -- 56 percent -- are planning to invest their money on home improvement projects in 2014. Twenty seven percent plan to remodel an outdoor area such as a patio, deck, pool or landscaping. Coming in next at 17 percent are bathroom remodels, with home repairs and kitchen remodels following at 16 and 11 percent, respectively.

This is all good news for Kruse Home Improvement, since we are well-equipped to help in any of these scenarios!

With summer finally upon us, let's take a look at some options for the warmer months that can help increase your home's value, along with your comfort.

Siding

Replacing or improving your siding can not only add to curb appeal, it can increase a home's value. Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report states that a common siding replacement may result in an estimated 79 percent return on the initial investment. A good siding replacement offers the added bonus of increasing your home's energy efficiency and insulation.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Piggybacking on energy efficiency, replacing windows can do wonders. If you take advantage of the warmer months to replace old windows, you will reap the benefits come winter. Older, single-pane windows are a major warning sign to potential home buyers. Remodeling cites that you may recoup at least two-thirds of the job cost in terms of home value. If you plan on staying in your home for the long run, why not pay less on utilities and avoid the frigid drafts that come with winter?

Deck Addition

Vacations are great ... and can be expensive. Why not take advantage of your home's own outdoor space with a deck addition? It can increase your home's value, while widening your area for outside entertainment and relaxation. Read more on this in our past blogs about building your deck and decorating it.

Source(s): houselogic; Kiplinger
Photo credit: FreePhotosBank

Decking Decor

Did you read our last blog on Decking Decisions? If not, we’ll wait – go ahead and read up. Ready? Good!

 

Now that you’ve made the investment in recreating your new deck, it’s time to polish off your dream space with the right finishing touches. The square footage of your space doesn’t matter as much as creating the right feel for your unique outdoor living space. To get you started, we’ve compiled a few ideas.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Think of all the things you love about being outside and keep those things there! From potted plants to faux silk fica trees, there’s a range of environs you can replicate – and on a budget. Visit local flea markets and tag sales to scoop up deals on wooden barrels or buckets for plants and small trees to line your deck. Hanging baskets with overflowing flowers, ferns and planters hung off the deck rails all add to a lush feel while maintaining an ambiance in keeping with environment. A fire pit off the deck easily completes a rustic feel.

When it comes to accessorizing, use colors and textures found in nature. Blues and greens are not simply calming; they channel nautical and tropical locales. Terra cotta and clay pots equal Mexican vacation, while wood planters conjure mountain retreat.

Bring the Inside – Outside.

Just because your furniture is outside doesn’t mean it has to be reminiscent of the green-turf-carpeted patios of old. Today’s outdoor furniture easily maintains the look of your living room, thanks to the versatile and durable fabrics and materials available. Look for furniture constructed of wicker or resin, with framing made of steel or aluminum. Fabrics should be indoor/outdoor, with the emphasis on the latter to ensure your furniture can withstand the elements. String or weave exterior Christmas lights or lanterns to reproduce that cozy lighting you love about your favorite den. If you have an enclosed patio, a slipcovered couch not only dresses up a room, it can be laundered.

Small Spaces

Worried that you just don’t have a space large enough to decorate? That is hardly ever the case. If it’s privacy from close neighbors you seek, put up a screen. Think Japanese-inspired screens decorated in cherry blossoms or wrought iron.

You also can’t underestimate the value of a small bistro set; sometimes a charcoal grill, table and two chairs are all you need. Add your personal touches through accessories. A decorative outdoor lantern in the middle of the table or sconces against the wall may be enough.

If you are considering installing a new deck, call Kruse Home Improvement to discuss your options at (860) 877-0775. 

Source: Sunset.com

Photo credit: Thomas J. Story