As summer winds down and autumn is on the horizon, it is a great time to think about prepping for cooler weather. Whether you are planning minor home improvement or perhaps a substantial home remodel, there are steps that you can take to protect your home, increase its resale value and make life for you and your family more comfortable and affordable.
HVAC Inspection and Servicing
HVAC experts recommend having your system inspected and serviced biannually. The end of summer and end of winter are both a great time to schedule a comprehensive inspection and maintenance appointment. Many providers even offer programs that cover both visits as well as ancillary services for one low fee. Not only does this ensure that your heating works when you need it but that it operates efficiently too.
Roof Inspection
Likewise, roof experts recommend an annual roof inspection. Such inspections can identify minor maintenance that can stave off big repairs down the line. While you don’t necessarily need to schedule this inspection in the transition from summer to fall, this is a great time to do that since summer weather can be hard on a roof and make it susceptible to the abuse that winter will throw at it.
Update Your Windows and Doors
If you’re considering home improvement with winter in mind, then updating your windows and even doors is an excellent option. If you have windows and doors that are a decade old or older, then modern energy efficient windows can save you anywhere from 5 to 40 percent energy consumed. If you’d like to know exactly what savings you can expect, a professional energy assessment is an excellent option.
Upgrade Your Insulation
Any homeowner considering a home remodel should know that this is also an excellent opportunity to replace your existing insulation with a newer material. The EPA estimates that the average home can save 11 percent on total energy costs by sealing the structure and adding or replacing insulation in attics, crawl spaces and so forth.
Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned on an annual basis. End of spring is a great time to do this so that you can use the fireplace as soon as fall gets cold enough. This lets you offset heating costs as well as ensure that you’re breathing clean air and not inviting a fire hazard.
Radiant Heating
Homeowners planning a home remodel should also consider radiant heating. Radiant heating is an excellent home improvement option because it offers many benefits, including greater comfort, better distribution of heat, superior energy efficiency and easier breathing for many people with allergies and asthma. Depending on your choices and where you live, there may even be rebates and tax credits that you can benefit you.