As the needs of growing families change cross the U.S., many homeowners are choosing to update their current home rather than buy a new one. Adding an addition or making energy efficient updates are great ways to spruce up your house and add to the value of your home. Ensuring your additions are energy efficient is also a great way to save money now and possibly make some later when and if you decide to sell.
If saving energy and money is on your to-do list in the new year, consider these five updates that will add value to your home and allow you to put your hard earned money towards other ventures:
Install new doors and windows. A new front door, storm door, or windows can give your entire house an updated feel. Older windows and doors allow warm and cool air to escape, causing drafts in the winter and hot spots in the summer. Ensuring that windows are double paned and sealed correctly can save money on heating bills instantly, as can a properly insulated door. And, adding storm doors to an exterior is a great addition to the curb appeal of a home and will also prevent up to 50% of energy loss, according to the Department of Energy.
Add or replace insulation in the attic. Some reports state that most of a home’s energy is lost through the attic. A properly insulated attic can help retain much of the heat in a home, making it more energy efficient and keeping the warm air inside where it belongs. Updating this part of your home can save you a lot of money in heating and cooling bills and is valuable to potential buyers as well. While this isn’t an addition you will see daily in your home, you will notice the change in both comfort and cost.
Add solar powered lights to the exterior of your home. Having an outdoor living space adds value and enjoyment to a home, and the right lighting makes this space versatile for both day and nighttime use. Update the look of your home and add security by creating lit pathways, or add ambience to your outdoor space with decorative ground and wall lights powered by the sun. Using solar powered lights is a great way to make this living space energy efficient.
Consider the addition of skylights, clearstory windows, and light shelves to your space. While this update to your home has an upfront cost, the added natural light can pay for itself over time through saving on expensive artificial lighting. Brightening up a space is a great way to update your living area and adds both the look and feel of more square footage without a full renovation - a natural appeal for potential buyers when you are ready to sell.
Remodel your kitchen with energy efficient appliances. Kitchen renovations, when done right, can add value to a home and attract potential buyers. A new kitchen layout, plus energy saver appliances, can save money and energy. Consider where your appliances are placed, keeping the refrigerator away from a heat source, such as an oven, dishwasher, or direct sunlight, which can keep operating costs and energy usage down. The right remodel will keep all your kitchen necessities running optimally so your kitchen is both beautiful and energy efficient.
Over the last 10 years, many Americans have seen a constant increase in energy prices*. Help keep your costs down and add value to your home with these energy efficient updates and additions. Contact DL Phillips Construction the trusted remodel contractor today to book a consultation or learn more great ways to save on energy costs in your home.
References: https://news.energysage.com/residential-electricity-prices-going-up-or-down/