Top 5 Home Remodeling Projects for Winter

Spring and summer may seem like the ideal time for remodeling projects for your home – the warm weather and spring fever to get things done around the house. But did you know there are home remodel projects that are actually better to do in the winter as opposed to other times of the year?

If you’re looking to do a little remodeling of your home this winter, you may want to consider these five projects:

Remodeling the basement

Remodeling your basement during the winter months has several benefits. One is that since most basements are underground, you’ll be certain that you’re working inside and not exposed to the elements. The same applies to your home – you aren’t exposing the inside of your home and belongings to the cold and harsh elements like you may when re-shingling or repairing your roof. During the winter you will also be spending more time indoors. Maybe a home theater would be a good option for the family. Popcorn and a good movie is lot less expensive at home than going to the show.

Consider basement remodels in the winter because it can also save you money. Wintertime is a slow time of the year for contractors. Many contractors will negotiate better deals with you, giving you a better price just so they can get the work.

Wood floors

Adding new, wood floors to your home? Wait until winter and you’ll help ensure the wood installs more easily with less problems. Wintertime means dry air. With the lack of humidity in the air, you won’t see gapping of the boards due to high moisture or problems with mold. You’ll also have quicker dry-time for any adhesive used in laying the floor due to the lack of humidity.

Insulation upgrade

It’s during the winter months that a homeowner will notice insulation inefficiencies in their home and may decide to add to their existing insulation, insulate non-insulated areas, or re-insulate areas. It can get expensive heating a home, especially if heat is easily lost due to poor or non-existing insulation.

Have your home inspected before jumping into this project. A professional will let you know if you need to insulate whole areas like the attic or re-insulate the entire home. He may recommend insulation, or that you simply replace doors and windows to more energy efficient choices. The cost of new insulation is quickly recouped with the savings you’ll see.

Trim and crown molding

If you want to give your home a more finished, luxurious look, trim-work in specific rooms can add appeal and value to your home. One of the most desired features in homes for homebuyers is crown molding and chair rails. Winter is a perfect time to add these remodel features: no humidity to interfere with the settling of the molding, and it’s a project that will keep you indoors.

Indoor lighting and ceiling fans

Are there rooms in your home that seem dark, dingy or could use a nice focal point? Maybe you’re in need of increasing the heating and cooling efficiency of your home. Adding new lighting fixtures or ceiling fans to selected rooms is a great project to tackle during the cold winter months.

An electrician can give you an estimate on the changes and additions to the rooms you want to upgrade. All that’s left is for you to choose your new lighting and ceiling fans from a home improvement store or lighting store. By upgrading your lighting features and adding efficient ceiling fans, you’ll save money on your heating and cooling bill as well as increase the value of your home.