6 Signs that Your Home Needs Renovation
Aging isn’t restricted to the living. Our homes, the pretty shells we invested our hearts and dollars on, also show signs of wear and tear as they age. It’s not good news for a homeowner expecting invincibility from his prized investment.
But if you look closely, you’ll realize that many tell-tale signs of an old home are pretty charming. Peeling paint, for instance, can give your home character. And that rickety old porch? Well, it just needs a little TLC, tender loving care.
However, your home definitely needs some a little extra effort if you notice significant signs of disrepair. But before you can turn back the clock on your home, you must be able to recognize the signs that it’s time for a facelift. Here are a few signs to keep an eye out for:
Termite Infestation:
Brisbane has earned some reputation in the Coptotermes spp. (subterranean termites) Department, as they’re the most destructive species in Australia. These guys damage approximately one in three homes in Brisbane, so there’s a good chance you’ve got them – or will get them at some point.
The right way to deal with termites is to have a fumigation treatment every few years. It will kill the termites and help to prevent any future infestations. But before you bring in fumigation experts, you must secure your furniture. Hire removalists to move your furniture and belongings out of the house for a few days. If you’re uncertain whom to trust, click https://www.optimove.com.au/removalists-brisbane/ for qualified and reputable removalists in the Brisbane area.
Your Home is Starting to Look Like a Fixer-Upper:
It looks like a home right from an episode of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” Chips in the paint, a loose doorknob, and water stains in the ceiling. Consider some updates if your home looks like a project for Chip and Joanna.
What works as “shabby chic” in a farmhouse might not have the same appeal in a suburban split-level. So, swap out old light fixtures and cracked countertops for something more modern. Other things to consider include painting (interior and exterior), new flooring, and updated hardware.
Your Home is No Longer the Hottest Property on the Block:
This one’s going to hit you right in the curb appeal. When was the last time you spent some time on your landscaping? It might be time for a fresh start if it’s been a while (or if you need help remembering). Spruce up your landscaping by planting new flowers, trimming the hedges, and adding mulch. Also, consider pressure washing your siding and walkways.
Your door, the gateway to your home, also makes the first impression. Consider giving it a makeover with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware if it’s old, faded, or peeling.
Experts suggest great curb appeal boosters: flowering bushes, a new mailbox, and potted plants along a paved walkway to the front door.
Your Home is Feeling a Little Cramped:
What’s your stepped-on-the-Lego-again score? Too much for one lifetime? You could use some extra square footage if your home feels too cramped for comfort. Finishing an attic or basement can give you the extra storage space you need—and maybe even add some living space. Make sure you consult a professional before tackling any significant structural changes. If you aren’t ready to take on a full-scale project, try some creative storage solutions to buy yourself some extra time. For instance, you can install shelves in your garage or use decorative baskets to corral toys in the living room.
Your Energy Bills are Through the Roof:
Does your home feel drafty? That, too, not in a trendy, farmhouse kind of way? Do you reach for a blanket every time you sit in your living room? If you’re nodding yes, it’s high time you consider some energy-efficient updates.
Replacing your old windows with new, energy-efficient ones can make a big difference. Consider adding insulation to your attic or walls. These are both big projects, but they can make a big difference in your energy bills – and the comfort of your home. For smaller, budget-friendly ideas, try weather-stripping your doors and windows.
Your Home isn’t Wheelchair Accessible.
If someone in your family has recently been diagnosed with a disability or is dealing with limited mobility, making your home more accessible should be a top renovation priority. Some common modifications include installing ramps or widened doorways, grab bars in the bathroom, raising electrical outlets, and making light switches accessible. These relatively small changes can significantly affect someone’s quality of life. So, they’re worth considering if you have the budget for them. It’ll also enhance your home’s resale value down the line.
Conclusion:
Investing in a home renovation can be a big undertaking—but it’s often worth it in the long run. Not only will renovating increase the value of your home, but it can also improve your family’s quality of life by making your space more functional and efficient. So, if your home is starting to look a little worse for wear, don’t wait too long to do something about it—a few minor changes now can save you from having to do a major overhaul down the road.