21 Home Improvements for 2021
We spent a lot more time at home in 2020, thanks to COVID-19, and we noticed that there are a few things that could use our attention. Some people took the plunge and started working on their homes last year, but some of us have waited to see what trends emerge. We took a good look at the list and determined the best home improvements to take on for summer 2021.
Kitchen Upgrades
Whether you choose to simply upgrade your appliances or embark on a full kitchen remodel, putting some energy into kitchen updates is time well spent. We are spending more time in the kitchen, using the space for work, study space, and more, so making the room more flexible and spacious is worth the effort.
Amp Up Your Curb Appeal
Enhancing your home’s curb appeal can be accomplished with a few simple tasks. Paint your front door, add container gardens to your steps, power wash your front walk, put on new house numbers, or add solar lights along your walkway to easily add some visual appeal to the front of your home.
A New Coat of Paint
Update color to make a fast, cost-effective change in the interior of your home. Sherwin Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year is Urbane Bronze SW 7048, a calming color inspired by nature, and Benjamin Moore’s chosen color for 2021 is Aegean Teal 2136-40, a soothing, balanced color that will work on walls or cabinets. Both colors aim to make your spaces relaxed and tranquil.
Add a Home Office
During the pandemic, more people have been working from home — and many intend to keep doing so for the foreseeable future. Make your work-from-home life more effective with a dedicated home office. Whether it is a space in a spare bedroom or a finished basement, your time at work will benefit from a private, quiet place.
Upgrade Flooring
How is your carpet faring? If it’s looking worn, maybe it’s time to upgrade to hardwood flooring. Hardwoods are strong, durable, easy to clean, and look great with any décor. Not ready to get rid of your carpets? Invest in professional cleaning to remove dust, dirt, stains, and pet dander.
Get Organized
If one of your New Year’s Resolutions was to get your life more organized, you can start with your home. Since we’re spending more time at home, it makes sense that we want it to feel uncluttered and comfortable. This is one of the least expensive ways to make your home feel bigger!
Change Your Hardware
Replace cabinet handles and drawer pulls for an easy, budget-friendly update in your kitchen and baths. Matte and brushed fixtures are the most popular finishes for kitchens in 2021.
Upgrade Your Windows
Upgrading to new, energy-efficient windows will not only add to your home’s value but will also add to your family’s comfort. Let in more natural light, save on energy costs, and add to your home’s curb appeal with new windows.
Replace Countertops
Your countertops are one of the first things you notice in your kitchen. Older counters make your kitchen look dated. Consider on-trend options such as granite, marble, or quartz. Ask your designer or contractor which would work best for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Security System
Increase your family’s safety with a home security system. There are many options for home security systems available. Research equipment, installation, and monitoring before choosing the one that’s right for you.
Add a Deck
Outdoor spaces for entertaining are in demand. Make your backyard an attractive destination with a deck. Add plants, flowers, lighting, and comfortable furniture to enjoy outside gatherings.
Organize the Garage
The garage holds more than our vehicles. Often, it houses tools, toys, garbage bins, recycling, lawn and gardening tools, and more. This year, take the time to build custom shelving solutions to hold all of your garage “stuff” in an organized way. You’ll be happy the next time you go out to look for the air pump!
Update Your Siding
Investing in new siding will not only update your home and improve curb appeal, it will be attractive to buyers when you’re looking to sell. According to Remodeling’s Cost Vs Value Report for 2020, you recoup 74-77% of your investment on resale.
Remodel Your Bathroom
According to the NKBA Design Trend 2021 Report, homeowners will be removing bathtubs to increase shower size, increasing technology (smart controls for faucets/showers/toilets, motion sensors for lighting, etc.), and adding toilets with bidets, among other trends. Whether you’re considering a zero clearance shower or switching to a rain showerhead, making changes to the bath will go a long way to making 2021 more comfortable for your family.
Go Greener
Homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes more eco-friendly this year. Options range from smart homes to green walls to solar panel roofing. From energy-efficient windows and doors to new siding, there are many options to go greener. What can you do in your home to be more environmentally conscious?
Check on Your Roof
Have you taken a look at your roof recently? If your roof is more than 20 years old; has missing, cracked, or curled shingles; or is sagging or leaking, it’s time for a new roof. Research contractors in your area. Ask friends and family for recommendations, check online reviews, and get at least three estimates. Beware of contractors providing extremely low estimates — the work may be shoddy or expenses may be added at the end of the project.
Add some pizzazz to your house with the 2021 Shingle of the Year from Owens Corning, Aged Copper.
New Garage Door
A new garage door will add to your home’s curb appeal and make it more energy-efficient. New models of garage doors have improved insulation, new colors and styles, and updated hardware. According to the Cost Vs. Value Report for 2020, you can recoup nearly 95% of the cost of a new door for your garage.
Install Motion-Detector Lighting
Exterior motion sensor lights are known to deter crime and are quite affordable and easy to install yourself. You can even use your own lights and attach a sensor to them. Many people are finding that indoor motion sensor lights are convenient as well. They either plug into a regular wall socket or are battery-powered and light up the hallway when you get up at night.
Spruce Up Landscaping
Tired of fighting with plants that just won’t thrive? Try plants that are native to your area. They have already proven that they can survive well in the conditions, so they should fare better than non-natives with severe weather events.
Mix up green shrubs with those that have colored leaves and flowers for bursts of color throughout the seasons. If your area tends toward drought conditions, installing a subsurface irrigation system will relieve you of the arduous task of watering on a schedule.
Set Up a Home Gym
We’re working out at home more, thanks to the pandemic. According to Businesswire, fitness equipment sales skyrocketed by 170% during lockdown last year. Outfitting a home gym with the equipment of your choice will make your workouts easier and more accessible. Why go out to a gym when you can workout in the comfort of your home?
Upgrade Light Fixtures
A simple DIY upgrade for your home is to put up new light fixtures. A new fixture can bring a whole new look to a room in a very simple way. Choose an artful ceiling light to become the focal point in the design of your room. Lighting can be complementary to your design, not just functional. Try some unconventional chandeliers, table lamps, or floor lamps to perk up tired spaces.
While we’re spending more time in our homes, take on some home improvements to make them more comfortable, functional, and beautiful. Call Kitchens by Oaks at 585-349-8100 to speak to a designer today.
