When you first move into a home of your own, it can be an exciting milestone. However, it’s important to recognize that it also comes with new responsibilities to maintain and protect your property. Use this home renovation checklist to determine what work your home might need, why it’s so important, and how to keep an eye out for any issues that first-time homeowners tend to miss when they first move in.
The Roof Replacement
Your roof needs to be reliable. It’s the first line of defense against the wind, rain, snow, and more. However, wear and tear can compromise your roof over time, either through damage to the shingles or the gradual degradation of the materials that comprise it. As a result, you’re likely to experience leaks and energy efficiency. Assess your roof’s condition with the help of a professional. If you have any damaged or missing shingles, you may only need to replace them. If there’s structural damage to your roof is decades old, however, you may need to consider a replacement.
The Plumbing Update
If the plumbing in your home is faulty or outdated, it can drastically affect your quality of life. It can lead to leaks and burst pipes, resulting in costly water damage. Even if it doesn’t get that far, reduced water pressure can be a pain in the neck. Check to see if your home is due for a plumbing upgrade, and consider some improvements like replacing old pipes or replacing fixtures that are likely to pose problems in the future. Even if the plumbing works fine, you might need to consider some upgrades, like using a tankless water heater to provide more hot water for a growing family.
Improving Your Electrics
Outdated or inefficient electricals for the home are less energy-efficient and pose a fire risk. Have an electrician inspect your electrical panel and test the wiring to ensure they’re up to modern standards. If you want to replace or upgrade your existing sockets and switches, such as adding additional ports for your appliances, you can save money by sourcing them directly from wholesale electrical suppliers rather than buying retail. Just make sure that you don’t try to DIY any installations. Any changes to your electricals should be done with professional help. Old wiring systems can cause issues, from drops in your power supply to a higher likelihood of blown fuses. These should be checked every few years, at least.
Replacing Your Windows
Don’t underestimate how important a good set of modern windows is for the home. If the windows are old or damaged, you’ll likely experience more drafts, leading to higher energy bills. Rotting frames, poor seals, and single-pane windows can lead to problems. As such, you might want to replace them with energy-efficient windows that help better insulate the home, keeping it comfortable and less costly. New windows are also a security investment, as they tend to be more solid and come with locks that fit modern standards.
Upgrading Your Flooring
While it might not be quite as vital as the other renovations mentioned here, flooring is a key part of the home’s comfort and style, all the while. If you’re living with flooring that requires more effort and cost to maintain, such as carpets, then replacing it with hardwood, laminate, or vinyl can make your home easier to clean. For wet rooms, such as the bathroom and kitchen, you should look into durable, waterproof options that can withstand moisture. Make sure you choose materials that fit your budget and the demands of that part of the home. For instance, if you have kids or pets, choose scratch-resistant and stain-proof flooring.
Recap: Home renovation checklist
With the tips above, you can plan for the additional work that sometimes comes with buying a new home. First-time homeowners can avoid being surprised by these in the future by working with a home inspector to identify any potential issues ahead of time and by asking the sellers the right questions. However, with the home renovation checklist outlined here, they shouldn’t be too much of a problem anyway.
