Over the past decade, home improvement has been on the rise. This is largely driven by homeowners who are staying in their homes longer and choosing to update rather than move. According to a recent report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, spending on home improvement projects has increased by more 50% since 2010 with aging homeowners responsible for a large amount of this spend. Among the most popular home improvements were new windows and doors, roofing, and landscaping.
At Exterior Source, we’re continuing to see investment into home exterior projects that have a large ROI. As we enter a new year, we expect to see home improvement projects on the rise among homeowners.
Here are our Top 5 project recommendations for the new year:
1. Replace your front door.
When was the last time you used your front door? A majority of homeowners enter their homes through the garage or a backdoor, leaving their front door out of sight and out of mind. But this neglected feature is an important part of your home’s curb appeal! Replacing your front door is an affordable project that packs a big punch. But don’t just settle for looks. It’s important to think about security as well. Recently, convicted burglars serving jail time were asked “What was your ideal target for a burglary?” A common answer was cheap wooden doors because of the ease at which they can be kicked in. A steel or fiberglass exterior door can add an extra layer of protection to your home in the new year. They also pay off in the long term. Remodeling magazine reports that replacing your door with a steel entry door can result in a 91% cost recoupment.
2. Upgrade your roof.
Most roofs come with 20-year warranties. If your roof is older than two decades, this year is a good time to have it inspected to see if it’s time for a new one. A damaged roof can rack up expenses quite quickly so if you think you need a new one, don’t procrastinate. Check out our post on the top five signs that you need a new roof. This will give you an idea of what to look for when examining your roof.
3. Add an “outdoor room”.
Outdoor living has skyrocketed over the past few years and we don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. One of the reasons why it is so popular is the addition of more living space without breaking the bank. Decks, patios, and sunrooms can all create more living space for your family without the cost of a home addition.
4. Give your exterior a makeover.
Replacing the existing siding on your home with new siding is the number one thing you can do to completely transform your curb appeal. With a wide array of colors and styles, you are guaranteed to find a siding option that fits the aesthetic you’re envisioning. While it may seem like a big project, it doesn’t have to be unaffordable. Vinyl siding is available to fit every budget. In fact, This Old House declared vinyl siding to be much cheaper than other siding options such as cedar, which can cost around 2.5 times more.
5. Stop cleaning gutters.
Let 2020 be the year that you stop climbing that rickety ladder to clear the leaves out of your gutters! In this age of ease and convenience, you shouldn’t have to risk your life to keep water moving through your gutters. With a LeafGuard gutter system, you’ll never have to worry about clogged gutters again. LeafGuard is stronger and more durable than any other gutter system, meaning they’ll stand the test of both Mother Nature and Father Time. Not only do these gutters make life easier for you, but their patented one-piece design looks great on any home, eliminating bulky looking gutter guards and blending perfectly with the exterior of your home.
If your goal for 2020 is to make your home happier, healthier, and more energy efficient, consider these upgrades. The best thing about making New Year’s resolutions for your home is that we’ll help you keep them! Contact us today for a free estimate today!