Cooler, winter weather means spending more time indoors. That means it is also a great time to tackle some of the indoor home improvement projects you may have been putting off while enjoying summer weather and activities. Here are 10 projects experts say are perfect to do over the winter.
Paint Interior Rooms
Tired of staring at boring white walls? Winter is the perfect time to paint your interior walls. The dry air that can be a pain for your skin in winter can be quite helpful while painting, allowing a fresh coat of paint to dry quicker.
Add Crown Molding
Another way to add some style to plain walls is crown molding. You can install it at the top of walls or door frames or on the wall along the top of cabinets. Crown molding can be used to cover dings and nicks on walls, and it gives your home a more custom look that you (and future buyers) will love. Best of all? Depending on the size of the room, you most likely can get it done in a weekend. You’ll need a miter saw, drop cloth, paint, nail gun, ladder, and, of course, the crown molding.
You’ll want to make sure you get the right size of crown molding, which ranges in width from 3 to 20 inches. HomeLogic.com recommends the following:
- For standard 8-foot ceilings: Molding should be 2.5 to 6 inches wide
- For 9-foot ceilings: 3 to 7.5 inches wide
- For 10-foot or higher ceilings: At least 8 inches wide.
Replace Interior Light Fixtures
You know that boring light fixture in your home that you really don’t like? Winter is the perfect time to change that out with a new fixture you’ll love! Bonus: The brighter, new fixture could help get rid of some of the winter blahs you may feel.
Update Plumbing Fixtures
Replacing old plumbing fixtures – faucets, showerheads, etc. – is a great way to add some style and visual appeal to often-overlooked areas. Plus, it can have a financial benefit as well. Newer fixtures are more efficient, so replacing an old fixture can save water (and money).
Change Out Cabinet Hardware
This is one of the easiest home improvement projects on our list, and also one that can have a big impact. If you have old, outdated cabinet pulls and knobs (or none at all), change them with newer, more stylish versions (or add them). This project can be done in an afternoon (or less) and will have an immediate impact.
Add A Tile Backsplash
Another way to get a great visual upgrade in your kitchen is a kitchen backsplash. While it may take a little more time and effort than some of the other projects, it is completely doable for most homeowners. It’s a great way to add some color or pattern to your kitchen without spending a ton of money.
Replace Flooring
Replacing flooring is never easy. You have to move furniture out of the way and do other prep work. But with the extra time spent indoors during winter, it may just be the perfect time to get this project done.
Install A Smart Thermostat
If you’ve been considering switching from a standard programmable thermostat to a smart one, why not pull the trigger and do it? Smart thermostats have proven to save money on energy costs ($10 to $20 per month according to Nest) thanks to the customization options and ability to control the thermostat remotely. While this is a project you could possibly do on your own, you may want to call in an expert to ensure everything is connected properly and you don’t end up with a non-functioning thermostat/HVAC system. Need help deciding what smart thermostat to buy or what to look for when purchasing one? BobVila.com has a buying guide and list of what they think are the best options here.
Insulate Attic
Did you know that insulating your attic has proven to produce the largest return on investment for homeowners (116.9 percent)? That means not only will this project make you more comfortable, but it can save you money in the long run. Start with a home energy audit/assessment, which will help you determine if you need more insulation or need to replace old insulation in your attic.
Organize/Renovate Laundry Room
The laundry room is one of the key rooms in your home, and if you’re like most people, it’s the room that seems to get ignored. Use your extra time this winter to change that. Start by thoroughly cleaning the room, then determine how you want to spruce it up and add organization. You could add wallpaper to the wall behind your washer and dryer for great visual appeal that is also quick and easy to do. For organizing, you could add shelves, bins, and baskets. If you have front-loading machines, you could also add a counter above them for additional storage and folding space.
Looking for your dream home? Liberty Homes has been building new homes in Utah for more than 25 years. We take pride in our trade, crafting each home as if it were our own. Our quality, affordable homes are energy smart and thoughtfully personalized for your active Utah lifestyle. We currently have townhomes available in Salt Lake County. Contact us today to get started building your new home.
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