10 Upgrades to Make to Your Home This Summer
Introduction
Summer is the perfect time to tackle home improvement projects and make upgrades to create a more comfortable and stylish living space. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value, create a more functional space, or simply enhance its aesthetic appeal, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we will explore 10 upgrades you can make to your home this summer to transform it into an upgraded home.
1. Curb Appeal
Improving your home’s curb appeal is a great way to make a good first impression on visitors and potential buyers. One effective upgrade is to create a raised garden bed in your front yard, adding a pop of color and greenery to your exterior. Hiring water damage companies to repair any existing damage to your home’s exterior can also greatly enhance its appearance. Additionally, consider updating your home’s plumbing fixtures for a fresh and modern look.
Another way to enhance your home’s curb appeal is by investing in a professional bathroom remodeler who can update outdated features and create a spa-like oasis in your home. AC repair and maintenance can also improve your home’s exterior appearance and ensure a comfortable indoor environment during the hot summer months. Finally, hiring a roofer to inspect and repair any damage to your roof can give your upgraded home a fresh and polished look.
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home’s exterior, consider installing tile flooring on your outdoor patio or front porch. This durable and stylish option can instantly elevate the look of your upgraded home and create a cohesive design aesthetic. Investing in a wood fence installation can also enhance your home’s curb appeal while providing privacy and security for your outdoor space. Additionally, consider adding local patio covers to create a shaded retreat where you can relax and entertain guests.
2. Budgeting
If you’re working with a limited budget, there are still plenty of cost-effective ways to get an upgraded home and give it a fresh new look. DIY projects are a great way to add personal touches to your upgraded home without breaking the bank. Try upcycling old furniture to create unique pieces for your home, or add a fresh coat of paint to outdated items for a modern and stylish upgrade.
Updating hardware and fixtures throughout your upgraded home can also make a big impact without spending a lot of money. Consider swapping out old cabinet hardware for sleek and modern options or replacing outdated light fixtures with energy-efficient alternatives. Small changes like these can instantly update the look of your home and give it a more polished and cohesive appearance. Another cost-effective upgrade is to add insulation to your home, which can help improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.
Sealing drafts and leaks in your upgraded home can also greatly improve its energy efficiency and make it more comfortable year-round. Check windows and doors for gaps where air can escape, and consider adding weather stripping or caulking to seal these areas. These simple upgrades can make a big difference in your home’s energy usage and help you save money on utility bills over time.
3. Energy Efficiency
Creating an energy-efficient upgraded home is not only good for the environment, but it can also help you save money on utility bills and create a more comfortable living space. One simple upgrade you can make is installing a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set specific temperature settings for different times of the day to optimize energy usage. This can help you reduce heating and cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is another effective way to make your home more energy efficient. Look for appliances with an Energy Star rating, which are designed to use less energy and water while still providing top performance. These appliances can help you save money on your energy bills while reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Adding insulation to your upgraded home is another key upgrade that can greatly improve its energy efficiency.
Proper insulation can help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce energy usage, and create a more comfortable indoor environment. Consider adding insulation to your walls, attic, and floors to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Sealing drafts and leaks is another important step in making your home more energy efficient. Check windows, doors, and other areas where air can escape, and use weather stripping, caulking, or insulation to seal these gaps.
4. Trendy Updates
When it comes to upgrading your home, there are plenty of trendy options to choose from that can add style and functionality to your space. Smart home technology is a popular upgrade that can make your home more efficient and convenient. From smart thermostats and lighting systems to security cameras and voice-activated assistants, there are plenty of options to choose from to create a modern and connected home.
Open shelving in the kitchen is another trendy upgrade that can add visual interest and practical storage solutions to your space. Consider removing upper cabinets and replacing them with open shelves to display dishes, glassware, and decor items. This can create a more open and airy feel in your kitchen while making it easier to access and display your favorite items. Statement lighting fixtures are another trendy upgrade that can add a touch of drama and style to your home.
From oversized pendant lights to chandeliers and sconces, there are plenty of options to choose from to create a unique and stylish look in any room. Luxury vinyl flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors with a durable and stylish option. This type of flooring is easy to install, low-maintenance, and comes in a wide range of colors and styles to suit any decor aesthetic. Consider upgrading to luxury vinyl flooring in high-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or living room for a stylish and practical upgrade.
5. Functional Space
Creating a more functional space in your home is all about maximizing the use of your existing space and adding practical and stylish elements to enhance its functionality. Custom storage solutions are a great way to create a more organized and efficient upgraded home. Consider adding built-in shelving, closet organizers, or storage bins to maximize your storage space and keep your home clutter-free.
Multi-functional furniture is another key element in creating a functional space. Look for furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed, storage ottoman, or extendable dining table. These versatile pieces can help you make the most of your space while adding style and functionality. Room dividers or screens are another effective way to create zones in an open-concept space and add privacy when needed.
Consider using a room divider to separate a living area from a dining space or create a reading nook in a larger room. Built-in seating or benches are another practical upgrade that can add seating and storage solutions to your home. Consider adding a window seat with built-in storage, a bench with under-seat storage, or a banquette in your breakfast nook to maximize seating and storage in your upgraded home.
6. Increasing Value
Increasing the value of your home is a smart investment that can pay off in the long run. One effective upgrade is a kitchen remodel, which can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. Consider updating cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring to create a fresh and modern look that will appeal to potential buyers.
Bathroom updates are another key upgrade that can increase your home’s value. Consider replacing outdated fixtures, adding a new vanity, updating tile flooring, or installing a sleek new shower or bathtub. These updates can greatly enhance the look and functionality of your bathroom while adding value to your home. Finishing your basement is another effective way to increase your home’s value and create additional living space.
Consider adding a bedroom, bathroom, or entertainment area to your basement to maximize its potential and appeal to potential buyers. Outdoor living spaces are another popular upgrade that can increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers. From a deck or patio to a pergola or outdoor kitchen, creating a functional and stylish outdoor living space can greatly enhance your home’s value and appeal.
7. Budgeting
If you’re looking to upgrade your home on a tight budget, there are still plenty of options to choose from that can make a big impact without breaking the bank. A simple paint refresh can instantly update the look of any room in your home and create a fresh and modern feel. Consider painting an accent wall, adding a pop of color to a front door, or repainting outdated furniture for a quick and budget-friendly upgrade.
Rearranging furniture is another cost-effective way to give your home a fresh new look without spending money. Consider swapping furniture pieces between rooms, moving items to create better flow and functionality, or simply rearranging the layout of a room for a new and improved look. Adding new throw pillows and blankets is another budget-friendly way to update your home and add style and comfort to any space.
8. Home Office
Creating a functional and stylish upgraded home office space is essential for productivity and comfort while working from home. Investing in an ergonomic desk and chair is a key upgrade that can improve your posture, reduce back and neck pain, and create a comfortable and supportive workspace. Look for a desk and chair that can be adjusted to your height and seating preferences for maximum comfort.
Adequate lighting is another important element in creating a productive, upgraded home office space. Natural light is ideal, so try to position your desk near a window for plenty of sunlight. If natural light is limited, consider adding task lighting, overhead lighting, or a desk lamp to supplement and brighten your space. Organization systems are key in creating an efficient and clutter-free, upgraded home office.
Consider adding shelves, filing cabinets, desk organizers, or storage bins to keep your office supplies and paperwork organized and easily accessible. Personal touches and decor can also enhance your home office space and make it feel more inviting and inspiring. Consider adding artwork, plants, or personal photos to personalize your space and create a warm and welcoming environment.
9. Relaxing Oasis
Creating a relaxing oasis in your upgraded home is all about creating a space where you can unwind, relax, and recharge after a long day. One effective way to create a peaceful retreat is by giving your bedroom a makeover. Consider updating bedding, adding soft lighting, and creating a cozy seating area to create a calming and restful space.
Adding spa upgrades to your bathroom is another effective way to create a relaxing oasis in your home. Consider adding a steam shower, getting any hot tub repair services for your whirlpool tub, heated floors, or a towel warmer to create a luxurious spa-like experience in your own home. If you have outdoor space, consider creating an outdoor retreat area where you can relax and unwind in the fresh air.
Add comfortable seating, cozy throws, and outdoor lighting to create a welcoming and peaceful outdoor oasis. Indoor plants and greenery are another effective way to create a relaxing oasis in your home. Consider adding potted plants, hanging planters, or a living wall to bring nature indoors and create a calming and serene environment.
10. Home Security
Enhancing your home’s security is essential for peace of mind and the safety of your family and belongings. One effective upgrade is installing smart locks and security systems, which allow you to control and monitor access to your home from anywhere. Consider adding motion sensor lighting to your home’s exterior to deter intruders and alert you to any suspicious activity.
Reinforcing doors and windows is another effective way to enhance your home’s security and prevent break-ins. Consider adding deadbolts, security bars, or reinforced glass to your doors and windows to make them more secure. Video doorbells are another popular upgrade that can enhance your home’s security while providing convenience and peace of mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of upgrades you can make to your home this summer to create a more comfortable, stylish, and functional living space. Whether you’re looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, increase its value, make it more energy efficient, or create a relaxing oasis, there are plenty of options to choose from to transform your space into an upgraded home. By following the tips and ideas mentioned in this article, you can make simple yet effective upgrades to enhance your living space and create a home that you truly love.
