Did you know that there are small changes you can make to your home that will save you money over time? Even though more extensive renovations like adding a bathroom will have a greater ROI, more minor improvements can still be beneficial in the long run. Making smart home improvements doesn’t just look good. It also reduces your monthly expenses. Here are five home improvement projects that will save you money on utilities every month for years to come.
1. Energy Efficient Windows
New windows are expensive, but upgrading your existing windows is a relatively low-cost project. Replacing old, single-pane windows with new double-pane windows will instantly increase your home’s energy efficiency. It will cut your heating and cooling bills and your utility bills in general.
You’ll save up to 50% on your energy bills in the long term. There are a few different types of energy-efficient windows that you can install, such as triple-pane windows or Low-E windows. Whichever type of window you choose, you can expect an immediate reduction in your energy bills.
2. Damp Proofing
Damp and mold are two of the biggest problems plaguing older homes. This is because when the foundations of these homes were built, the construction materials weren’t as advanced as they are today. Many new homes come with a damp-proof membrane underneath the floorboards to keep water from seeping into the home.
However, many older homes don’t have this feature. Installing a damp-proof membrane will prevent water from seeping into the floorboards and walls. Not only will this make your home look cleaner and less musty, but it will prevent damage to your home
3. Install Solar Energy
You could save a significant amount of money by installing solar panels. They don’t emit any greenhouse gasses, and they don’t require any ongoing maintenance. Once installed, they will keep generating free electricity for the coming years. It saves you money in two ways. First, you’ll reduce your electricity bill. Second, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint. Solar panels have adjusted in price over the years, making them more accessible to the average homeowner. Ensure you reach out to a solar energy contractor to have your home installed with a solar panel by a professional.
Read More : 6 Home Improvements You Should Leave Up to Professionals
4. Smart Thermostat
Many homeowners have made the switch to a smart thermostat. Not only do these thermostats look sleek, but they also save you money. Whether at work or on vacation, you can control the thermostat from your smartphone.
You can also program it to lower the temperature when no one is at home. If you make this one simple change, you can save around $150 per year in energy costs depending on the size of your home. If you’re planning a renovation, consider installing a smart thermostat.
5. LED Lighting
While fluorescent lights are energy efficient, they don’t look very good. Many homeowners prefer to switch to LED lighting for better aesthetics. Not only do they look nicer, but they also consume less energy.
At night, the lights transform to a warmer yellow, perfect for relaxing. Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it’s also an inexpensive home improvement project. Depending on your type of fixture, LED lights can last for decades without needing to get replaced.
Conclusion
Home improvements are a great way to make your home look nicer and increase its value. You can also save money by making minor and inexpensive improvements instead of spending a lot on a huge renovation. Consider all the costs when calculating the ROI of a particular improvement. You’ll want to consider the cost of the improvement, the increase in your home’s value, and the amount of money you’ll save each month on your bills.