Whether you're thinking about adding on to your home, or simply taking care of some much-needed renovation, there are some additional items you should add to the project. This is particularly true if your home is showing the signs of aging. As your home ages, key elements can wear out. When they do, they can cause serious problems. Before you begin your renovation project, here are three areas you should include in the plans.
Start at the Top
You might not realize this, but if your roof is wearing out, you could be looking at a lot of additional problems. First, if your roof is worn-out, your home won't be as energy efficient as it should be. Second, a worn-out roof can leak, which can damage the wood sub-floor beneath the roofing material. Finally, once your worn-out roof starts leaking, you may end up with mold growth inside your attic. Now that you're going to be renovating your home, start at the top and replace your roof.
Get Energy Efficient
If your home hasn't been updated in a while, you could be wasting money, and energy. One way to improve the energy efficiency of your home is to update the items discussed below.
Windows
If the windows on your house are the single-pane style, you owe it to yourself to update them to dual-pane. Dual-pane windows do a better job of keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Plumbing Fixtures
If you've got original plumbing fixtures on your home, you should add new ones to your renovation list. Low-flow toilets, shower heads, and faucets will save you water, and money – in the form of lower water bills.
Insulation
If it's been a while since you updated your insulation, you should talk to your contractor about including that in the plans. A fresh layer of insulation in your walls, and attic, will greatly reduce your energy bills, and keep you more comfortable inside your home.
Don't Forget About the Wiring
If you've been noticing problems with your electrical system – flickering lights, scorched outlets, etc. – your home might be trying to tell you that it needs to be rewired. While you're planning your renovation project, talk to your contractor about the benefits of rewiring your home.
Renovation projects are the best time to think about updating key areas of your home. Now that you're preparing to renovate your home, talk to your contractor about including the updates described here. Talk to a company like Lajoie Bros for more information.
