It’s cold, the snow is flying, and you’re getting cabin fever…so maybe now is just the right time to call your remodeler. It may seem counter-intuitive, but there are plenty of reasons to give your home a refresh in the dead of winter. Here are five winter renovation projects to consider when the temperature drops.
We talked to Butch Sprenger, owner of Destiny Homes, for his take on winter remodeling in Minnesota. “We build plenty of additions, upgrade lighting in the ceiling, even replace roofing and windows during winter,” he explains. “But those projects will add a little extra time and money as we need to provide temporary insulation and barriers to the elements.
“On the other hand, there are tons of exciting ways to give your home a makeover without breaking the building envelope. We also find that a lot of products — from hardwood flooring to tile to lumber — tend to rise in price by spring, so winter is a great time to make those purchases.”
With modern technology, remodelers are able to control fumes and dust, so winter or summer, you’ll have a comfortable environment while the work goes on. Here are a few remodeling ideas you might want to consider this winter:
Why not dump that dated cabinetry (you know you love the bright white look that’s still king in today’s kitchens), go for a dramatic backsplash, or make your feet happy atop a gleaming expanse of gorgeous hardwood. While there will be more disruption to your daily lives during the several weeks of construction, remodelers will set you up with temporary refrigeration while crock pots and hot plates can serve up some great winter meals. And of course, who doesn’t want to skip cooking when it gets dark at 5 p.m.? Grub Hub anyone?
You can get your very own man-cave, she-shed, theater, exercise room or English pub with little disruption if you send your remodeler downstairs. The workers will be out of your hair down there, but image the possibilities for entertaining or just enjoying life in a space you may have long written off as merely storage.
Get going on a bath renovation now and enjoy a long hot soak in your new free-standing tub before the crocus bloom next spring. And, how about installing a heated floor with gorgeous new tile for bare-foot warm toes all year round.
Already the kids are tracking in snow and dumping their skates and snow gear in a pile. That’s why now is the perfect time to get your remodeler busy on personalized lockers and storage. And with each kid having their very own space, they’ll be way more inclined to keep their belongings where they belong.
How many of us have an unused bedroom that’s piled high with junk? Now is the perfect time to get organized with cabinets, cubbies and countertops that will make your life and your hobbies way more fun. Quilters can get a drop-down cutting table and hideaway ironing board. Add some gift-wrap spindles for all those Christmas presents. Or create a sound-proof music room for your budding rock star.
Giving your home a facelift during winter means that your gorgeous new spaces will be all set for a spring and summer of fun.
P.S. If you need one more reason to get started, remodeling your home is the perfect excuse to hit the beach mid-winter!
Need to find the perfect remodeler for your project? Start searching here!
Written by Wendy Danks
Wendy Danks (wendydoodles.com) has had a career-long love affair with the Parade of Homes, spending the last 20 years as its marketing and communications director. Recently retired, she now has time to spend on her other great love, writing.
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