5 upgrades that make your home easier to care for
Owning a home does come with responsibilities (like basic upkeep and occasional repairs). But that doesn’t mean it has to feel like a chore. With a few simple swaps, you should be able to cut back the time you spend on home maintenance.
Sound appealing? Here are five easy-care home upgrades to consider:
1. Remove carpeting.
Carpet is soft underfoot and aesthetically pleasing, but wall-to-wall carpeting requires a lot of maintenance, especially if you have children or pets. Switching to hardwood, laminate or tile floors can cut down on maintenance needs and stress.
2. Look for stain-resistant countertops.
Want the beauty of marble or granite countertops without the risk of stains or the hassle of protectant sealing? Quartz countertops, available in a variety of colors and unique patterns, offer a durable, antimicrobial and stain-resistant alternative. A nonporous surface, quartz doesn’t require sealing and cleans up easily with mild soap and water.
3. Install fiberglass windows.
A durable material that provides great thermal insulation, fiberglass can be painted or textured to resemble natural wood. Unlike wood, however, fiberglass won’t warp or rot. That makes fiberglass an ideal choice in areas prone to extreme temperatures or excess moisture.
4. Get “smart” about watering your lawn.
Is your yard heavy on water-thirsty greenery? A weather-sensing, water-conserving irrigation system can monitor local weather conditions and water accordingly. Aside from draining irrigation lines annually, there’s little to no work for you and far less water waste.
5. Upgrade to metal roofing.
Asphalt shingles are affordable but tend to crack, shed granules or even blow away. Cedar lasts longer (and costs more) but isn’t appropriate in fire-prone areas. Slate, clay or concrete can last a lifetime but are costly and hard to find.
Metal roofing offers an affordable, long-lasting alternative that is:
- Fire- and rust-resistant.
- Durable enough to withstand heavy snowfall.
- Available in a variety of colors and textures.
**Remember, if you are doing any work to the exterior of your home to check with your HOA before starting.
If you need help with your home projects, reach out today.
