Spring Checklist for Your Home

Spring Checklist

Spring fever has motivated many a home renovation project. But why put off planning till the flowers are blooming and "to do" lists are calling?

Just as serious gardeners pore over their seed catalogs and sketch out new garden plots while its frosty outside, savvy homeowners use winter's hibernation to gather information on spring renovation projects that will brighten and lighten their living spaces. And the sooner contractors are contacted for project estimates, the easier it will be to shop around and compare.

1) Receive up to a $1500 tax credit for a central air upgrade

It may seem strange to think about scorching summer heat when a blizzard is blowing outside. Consider having your ac unit checked or upgraded now so extra stress can be avoided later when air conditioning contractors are overbooked. Remember to ask about new air conditioning systems that qualify for the federal tax credit.
Request central air estimates before this summer's heat

2) Upgrade your windows

Sure, plain ol' double panes save on energy, but when low e (short for emissivity) double panes are used the savings skyrocket in the summer. Ask a window professional about energy saving windows that are most suited for your home's location and that qualify for the tax credit.
Request window estimates to brighten your home

3) Consider solar tubes and skylights

Turn off the lights and brighten your home the natural way—with daylight. The sunlight emitted through skylights and solar tubes not only saves on the energy bill, it brightens moods. After all, the best prevention for seasonal depression is sunlight. Daylight also adds beauty to your home, showcasing your decor in its best light.
Request solar tubes and skylight estimates

4) Repaint to "enlarge" your living space

Chipped paint and dingy walls that go unnoticed in the darkness of winter don't look so great in a sun-filled room. Even if a home's paint looks fresh and clean, there are a couple other reasons to repaint. For example, light paint colors will make rooms appear larger while neutral colors increase the marketability of a home.
Request painting estimates

5) Cut energy costs with new landscaping

A well designed landscape can save as much as 25% in cooling costs each year and increase your property value by 15%. Money matters aside, a nicely designed landscape increases your quality of living and adds beauty year round. When planning a landscape upgrade consider going native—this can save energy, water and eliminate harmful chemicals.

6) Create outdoor living space

Get ready for the best days of the year by planning a deck, outdoor kitchen or even an outdoor family room. Boost your home's marketability and save on energy while enjoying the great outdoors right at home. Explore the possibilities and get free estimates from remodeling professionals.

7) Plan ahead for spring cleaning

Some may feel that a house cleaning service is a luxury during these economic times, but if one's time can be better used on other projects, it's simply good time management. There's nothing like sunshine to brighten a room and to expose dust, dirty windows, mildew & mold and all those other nasties that accumulate throughout the winter. A good cleaning service will leave the home sparkling and fresh.

The bottom line

Before warmer days beckon you outdoors to attend to those "to do" lists and long awaited fun in the sun, take the time now to plan renovations, so that when spring is here, you'll be ready with your contractors booked, your plans in hand and a spring in your step.
View all home improvement projects

Disclaimer: This article offers general guidelines and is not intended as professional advice.