Summer is the perfect time for home improvements. The warm weather and longer days provide great conditions for undertaking outdoor and indoor projects. What’s more, home improvements can enhance your quality of life while also boosting your property value. So, whether you want to take on a small or large project, here are some summer home improvement ideas.
Expand the Kitchen
Even for people who seldom cook, the kitchen is often the most important room in the house. A spacious, modern kitchen simply gives off the vibe of a well-cared for home and is highly desirable to potential buyers. Expanding your kitchen by knocking down non-load-bearing walls or adding an extension can enhance functionality, providing more space for cooking and entertaining. An expanded kitchen can create a more open and inviting layout, making your home feel larger and more connected.
Detroit drywall is a popular and cost-effective material for increasing the square footage of a kitchen. It is easy to install and can be finished with paint, wallpaper, or tiles. Consider adding an adjacent pantry or seating nook into your kitchen footprint and incorporating a kitchen island or breakfast bar to offer more seating and prep space.
Build a Sunroom or Conservatory
Adding a sunroom or conservatory is a superb way to increase your home’s living space and make the most of the sunny days. These light-filled spaces can serve as additional living areas, dining rooms, or just a place to chill and relax. Sunrooms are not just for warm days either; they can be equipped with heating and insulation to extend their use into the cooler months, providing a place for you get your vitamin D fix without having to brave the elements.
To maximize comfort and energy efficiency, choose energy-efficient windows such as double-glazed windows and incorporate shades or blinds to control sunlight and temperature. If designed well, a sunroom or conservatory can add significant value to your property.
Add More Bathrooms
There is never enough bathrooms in a house! Adding a new bathroom, especially a master suite or guest bathroom, can greatly increase your home’s value. This is especially helpful in homes with limited existing bathrooms, as it reduces the morning rush hour and provides more privacy. A quick way to add a bathroom is by converting an unused closet or recessed area into a new bathroom. You can also convert existing half bathrooms into full bathrooms.
When adding a bathroom, use high-quality fixtures and finishes to create a luxurious feel. Consider accessibility features like walk-in showers to increase versatility and appeal. Moisture-resistant drywall can help prevent mold and mildew in bathroom areas where high humidity and moisture are common.
Create a Home Office or Study
With more people working remotely, a dedicated home office has become somewhat of an essential feature. Converting an underused room or adding a small extension for an office can make your home more attractive to buyers, especially those who work from home. A quiet, dedicated workspace provides a professional environment and improves productivity. Such spaces can be also attractive to families with children who need a private area to study.
Ensure the home office is well-lit and has adequate electrical outlets and reliable high-speed internet access. Incorporating built-in shelving and clever storage solutions can help keep the space organized. Other considerations may be sound insulation, to minimize distractions, and a private entrance, to keep the office separate from living areas.
Finish the Basement
An unfinished basement is basically a waste of space that can be used for little more than storage or laundry. Why not embrace that untapped potential and transform it into a functional living space? A basement can be converted into a whole range of useful rooms, such as a home cinema, game room, personal gym, or even an extra bedroom. Finishing your basement will not only increase the usable square footage of your home but will also boost its resale value.
Before finishing a basement, ensure proper insulation and waterproofing to prevent moisture issues. Be sure to have any damaged drywall inspected and repaired by professionals to prevent future issues. Adding a bathroom or kitchenette can enhance convenience and make the space more self-contained.
Improve Landscaping
Curb appeal is a major factor when it comes to property value, and summer is the best time to get your hands dirty in the garden. Whether you choose to hire a landscaper and gardener or tackle the work yourself, simple landscaping updates like planting trees, shrubs, and flowers, or installing a new lawn can boost your property’s value and appeal. Strategically placed plants can also provide much-needed shade or privacy for that sunroom that you just installed.
When landscaping, always choose low-maintenance plants suited to your climate to save on upkeep and water bills. Consider adding features like pathways and water features to create a beautiful and tranquil outdoor environment. Solar garden lighting is easily available and increases safety while adding to a dreamy ambience.
Conclusion
The summer months are the perfect time to tackle some valuable home improvement projects that will enhance the appearance, functionality, and market value of your property. Whether you decide to expand your kitchen or simply spruce up your landscaping, a little bit of hands-on work can go a long way in making your home more comfortable and up market!