When looking to do some home improvements, there are two things one must consider; energy efficiency and value addition. While an upgrade of the siding colors will probably have an effect on energy efficiency, it doesn’t do much for your home’s value. Choosing simple upgrades like painting, installing weather stripping and changing bulbs may save you a lot of money but they will not add much value to your home. With that in mind, here are some of the best home improvements you can make to enhance energy efficiency and improve your property value:

  1. Siding Replacement: There are several reasons why you might want to replace your house siding including structural damage and improving your curb appeal. Though there are many types of house siding materials, vinyl siding is the most affordable and requires the least amount of maintenance compared to the others. Over time, mid-range vinyl siding replacement projects have returned 81.6% on the initial investment. If the old siding is not damaged, you can just change the siding colors to give it that fresh look and increase its lifespan.
  2. Install New Windows: Old windows waste a lot of energy and make your house look drafty. Though new window installation is not the cheapest, it can save you more than 15% on energy bills. Changing your windows will also give your home a new look especially if you go with modern casement windows that allow more light and make the room seem bigger.
  3. Roof Replacement: Nobody wants to live in a house that will require a roof repair or upgrade. One of the best ways to improve your home’s value and enhance energy efficiency is by replacing your old roof with a cool metal roof. Roofing contractors will remove the old roof because roofing experts estimate that the life of your new roof will be cut by as much as 20% if it is installed on top of the existing roof. A cool metal roof will absorb less heat and also cold so your house will not be too hot during summer or too cold in winter.
  4. Door Replacement: Front door replacement is a very simple upgrade that will add tremendous value to your house. It gives the house a quick facelift and improves the curb appeal of your home. When buying a new door, be sure to check for the NFRC label which will show you how well the door will insulate your house. A steel or fiberglass frame door with foam insulation core doesn’t need further weather-stripping if it’s installed properly.
  5. Attic insulation: Though a lot of air goes through the door, windows, and walls, most of your heat escapes through the attic. It is therefore very important to ensure that the attic is well insulated to keep cold air out and warm air inside the house. There are many types of insulation that a contractor can use including blanket insulation, concrete block, foam boards, and structural insulated panels. As long as the insulation is 10 inches thick and well done, your house should stay warm.

There is a lot you can do in terms of improving your home if you need to see a real difference in value. However, if you are limited on resources, simple steps like improving siding colors, weather-stripping the doors and windows and also putting up a wall to wall carpet in your house can make a big difference.

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