New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home
The end of December marks the time to start thinking about New Year’s resolutions. You know, the year-end pledges 60% of us make, but only 8% keep. Noble goals like dieting, exercising, and saving money are too often easier said than done, so this year we are determined to make a change. Of course, we’re still dedicated to self-improvement, but home improvement is the focus of our newest resolutions. Here are five promises we’re making to our homes in the new year.
Be More Energy Efficient
What could be better than improving both your home and the planet? That’s easy: the savings you will see by going green. Replacing old appliances with smart, Energy Star-rated models will save both time and energy consumption. Sealing leaks by weather-stripping around doors and windows can reduce electric bills by 5 to 10%. You can save from $126 to $465 on that same bill by making the switch from single-pane to energy efficient windows. Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights is another environmentally friendly decision that will cut down your energy spending. See, you can make a New Year’s resolution to save money after all!
Enjoy the Outdoors
If you would like to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve mental health in the new year, resolve yourself to spending more time outdoors. Being outside in the fresh air is directly linked to increasing happiness and health. There is therefore no better time to treat yourself to a backyard addition that will get you out of the house. Add to your outdoor living space with a deck or patio. Fire pits and outdoor kitchens are great for entertaining guests outside. If rest would be best, there’s nothing more peaceful than a personal pergola.
Have a Healthier Home
Dieting and exercising are great resolutions, but they’re not the only ways to be healthier. Indoor air quality is a problem in many homes, where allergens and pollutants can be two to five times worse than outdoors. Make a commitment to replacing furnace filters every month and scheduling an annual HVAC inspection. If you make good on your resolution to spend time outside, you’ll also want to make sure your home exterior is clean. Power washing eliminates allergens and mildew from your siding, porch, and patio. Deck staining offers important protection for the surface while also inhibiting mold growth.
Complete “That” Project
The new year is a fresh beginning, so start it with a renewed focus to concluding the “work-in-progress” that never seems to progress. Yes, we’re talking about that basement finishing that never ends, or the bathroom remodeling project you’ve talked a lot about but never got around to. Crossing those off your to-do list will not only give you peace of mind, but help you move on to important new tasks.
New Year’s resolutions are always easier when we have support, and Excel Fencing & Decking is here for you. If you want to see through that kitchen renovation project, our remodeling teams will get it done on time and on budget. If you want to get more out of your outdoors, give our decking installation experts a call. We even have specialized window technicians that can help you be more energy efficient. Whatever you need, Excel is here all through the year!