When you’re thinking about home improvements, it’s easy to focus on the visuals. New interior and exterior designs can make your home feel more modern and beautiful, but when you’re budgeting for home improvements, it’s important not to lose sight of the things that keep your home running.
There are a number of home improvements you can make that will safeguard your home against potential damage. These upgrades may not be as flashy or visually impactful as a painting makeover or new flooring or cabinets, but they can be great investments that will protect your home in the long run. While you can refresh the look of your home by hiring good painting contractors like advanced painters ltd for a pint job, there are many other ways to improve your home. If you own an older home or a fixer-upper, these should be some of the first repairs on your list.
#1 New Plumbing
A leaking pipe isn’t just an inconvenience. If it goes undetected for long enough, it can cause thousands of dollars of damage to drywall, flooring, and even furniture.
Older plumbing systems can be fragile things. Over the years, pipes can corrode and rust, increasing the risk of leaks and even sewage backups.
Not only can a new plumbing system protect your home, but it may also improve things like water pressure and capacity. If you’re eager to install a luxury bath, you may need to upgrade.
Before starting a renovation, you may be wondering, how do I find a plumber near me? Start by finding someone who specializes in renovations and installing new plumbing systems, rather than an emergency plumber who fixes urgent problems.
#2 Upgrade the Wiring
Old wiring is a major fire hazard and one that you shouldn’t sleep on getting fixed. There are old wiring systems that may come with old houses that are known for being huge hazards. One of the oldest and most dangerous wiring systems is known as knob and tube, where wires are run through the house with ceramic insulators. Cracked and missing insulation is a common issue, as are exposed splices.
In addition to fire risks, old wiring systems aren’t made for modern electricity consumption. People didn’t have desktop computers and smart fridges when these systems were installed.
Getting an electrician in to upgrade old wiring systems will give you peace of mind and significantly reduce your fire risks.
#3 Weatherproofing
Weatherproofing will protect your home from damage during extreme weather events and make your home more comfortable on cold winter days and in the sizzling summer heat.
Your roof is the biggest project you should take on when you’re weatherproofing. When you get your roof checked out, they should be looking for loose shingles, cracked or puffed wall renders, and loose materials.
When it comes to older homes, you will also want to check for rotting window frames, clogged gutters, and door frames that let drafts into your home.
#4 Home Security
Last but not least, a home security system can give your family peace of mind and deter break-ins. A home security system should have motion sensors, surveillance cameras, and smart locks. Many modern systems also allow remote monitoring on your phone, so you can keep an eye on things or get alerts right on your phone.
The right home improvements can protect your home from loss and damage. Consider upgrading your plumbing and wiring systems, weatherproofing older homes, and installing a home security system to keep your home functioning at its best.
