Some great summer reno tips from Justin Kirby @ REW.
There are plenty of home renovations you can take on this summer, many of which can increase the value of your property. If your renovation attempts this spring didn’t quite go as planned, or if you’ve been putting them off for longer than you intended, get things started while it’s hot outside and the skies are clear. Here are 10 of the most popular home renovations that you can tackle this summer.
1. Replace your fence
With proper care, a good fence should last roughly 15 years. Unfortunately, in wet climates like Vancouver, you’d be very lucky to hit that number. Wood fences eventually rot and need replacing, and it’s not something you want to be doing in the rain. The summer months are the perfect time to replace your fence.
Alternatively, you could plant cedar trees in front of your fence if greenery is more appealing to you. Cedars can be purchased in all sizes; just keep in mind that the taller they are when you buy them, the more expensive they will be.
2. Deck replacement or addition
Deck additions are easily one of the most popular home renovations in 2021. Outdoor gatherings are one of the few ways friends and family can get together during the pandemic, making having a meeting place like a deck or patio extremely valuable. Deck companies are busy right now, so call early or plan to do the work yourself.
If you already have a deck but would like to update it for the summer, adding a new layer of vinyl is a great way to freshen things up. Replacing rotting wood railings with aluminum or glass railings is another excellent way to improve the look of your deck or patio area (and make things safer as well).
3. Update your roof
A new roof should last you a minimum of 15 years, though they can hold out for much longer than that if you don’t live below large trees. Wood and asphalt shingles are both widespread, though asphalt will need to be replaced sooner in most cases. When it comes to warning signs, watch for any sagging, moss (which can signal trapped moisture), and any patches of shingles that are buckling. If you notice any of these signs, and it’s been over 15 years since the roof was replaced, it’s time to have a professional come out and take a look.
4. Bathroom remodel
Starting a bathroom remodel can seem daunting at first, but once you begin you’ll see that small spaces really aren’t too overwhelming. Retiling your bathroom floors and shower, replacing showerheads and toilets, hanging new mirrors, and adding a new vanity can be done relatively quickly and leave you with a beautiful new space. These renovations often pay for themselves, as they’ll increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell your property.
5. New kitchen backsplash
The kitchen can be a considerable job depending on how much you want to take on, but a new backsplash is an excellent place to start if you’re looking for a smaller project. A new backsplash can make a kitchen look fresh, or give it a pop of colour depending on your personal preferences. If you’re matching your backsplash colour with your counters (which is common if you’re doing white on white), try to make sure your counters are a slightly warmer tone than your backsplash. This keeps your backsplash looking very clean. Kitchen renovations, in general, are a great way to increase the value of your home.
6. Exterior painting
Interior painting is always a good idea when it comes time to sell your home, but exterior painting shouldn’t be overlooked. The summer months are the perfect time to update the exterior of your home, and adding a fresh coat of paint, even if it’s the same colour as before, really brightens things up. Adding some new trim colours to the exterior, doing a flat stucco job to make things look more modern, or simply removing old wood panelling can go a long way.
7. Window upgrades
Upgrading your windows will not only make your home more attractive and modern, but it will also save you money in the long run. Replacing your windows is one of the best kinds of renovations – those that will save you money every single month, whether you’re keeping the cold air in during the summer months or the warm air in during the winter months. In addition to saving you money on your heating bill, it will also make you money when it comes time to list your property. Double pane, triple pane, and Low-E windows are precisely the kinds of features that energy-efficient buyers are looking for right now.
8. Frame in your carport
You’ll likely need to get a permit to frame in your carport, so be sure to check with your city before you begin this renovation project. It’s become extremely popular to opt for a garage instead of a carport for practical and overall home security reasons.
Look for a garage door with good insulation so that your home stays warm in the colder months. The thicker the door, the better, and with no windows if possible – unless the designer in you needs them!
9. Replace your doors
You’ll be surprised by how much this freshens up your home. Whether it’s replacing those ageing doors in your bedrooms, swapping an old sliding door for a set of beautiful french doors, or replacing your front door with a new exciting design and colour, you’ll enjoy this renovation. For a smaller project, you can update every door handle in your home in just a few hours, and this can also add some charm. Black or brass door handles stand out and make an impression.
10. Add new siding or stucco
If you are going ahead with redoing a deck or framing in a carport, there’s a chance you’ll need to re-stucco or add some siding to your new exterior walls. Siding, in particular, is very low maintenance, and if you opt for fibre cement siding, you’ll be choosing a durable product as well. If your home has stucco, try to find someone to match your current style or pattern. This isn’t an easy task, so be sure to go with a professional with a good track record and plenty of reviews.
These home renovation projects are all extremely popular right now. Don’t be afraid to give home improvement a shot this summer. It’s the perfect time to get started.