Smart Investments For Spring Remodeling

Previous Topics
•	Increasing Curb Appeal
•	Kitchen Islands
•	Designing a Floor System
•	Remodeling 101
•	Options For Bathroom Remodeling
•	Bath Redesign On A Budget
•	Basement Renovations: Simple Solutions
•	Restoring a Drab Deck
•	Five Winter Home Improvement Tips
•	Choosing Paint Colors
•	Basics of Wood Finishing

With the slowdown of the economy, rising energy bills, and spring just around the corner, itÕs an ideal time for homeowners to tackle those projects that have been on the Òhoney-doÓ list way too long.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans spent $143 billion on home maintenance, renovations and repairs in 1999 with home improvements looking to expand their living environment, repairing winter damage, and not surprisingly, improve the energy efficiency of their home.

If energy saving is your top priority, here some great Spring projects that will improve the value of your home while adding to your personal comfort.

1. Repair Winter Damage: This winter was one of the worst on record and many roofs are in need of repair or may even need to be replaced. Catching this problem now before it gets worse will save you unnecessary repairs and expense later on down the road.

2. Add a Layer of Insulation to the Attic: As a general rule, if you have less than 11 to 12 inches of attic insulation, you probably need more.

3. Replace Wood Windows with New Vinyl Energy-efficient Windows: Replacing windows with low-emissions (low-e) glass coated windows will help save money on energy bills because they block the sun's rays keeping the air conditioner from working as hard. If you can't afford to replace all your windows at once, replace south and west facing ones to save money on cooling costs, then replace north and east facing windows in the fall to save on heating costs.

4. Change Furnace Filters: Cleaning air registers, baseboard heaters and radiators as needed and changing forced air heating system air filters monthly can save you as much as 10 percent on your energy bills.

5. Exterior facelift If you have been thinking about replacing your old siding with vinyl siding, Spring is a great time to tackle this job. Today's vinyl siding choices offer more colors, styles, texture and appearances than ever before. Additionally, vinyl siding never needs painting and adds to the value of any home should you place it on the market.