Top Home Improvement Projects for you this winter

The cold is here and now you’re looking for a home improvement project to keep the cold out and the heat in. No worries: Redfin is here to help you fortify your home against the elements, modernize key areas, and simply elevate its overall ambiance.

As you fight the cold from an apartment in Grand Forks, a new home in Boulder, or a rental home in Marquette. These expert-advised projects are sure to inspire you to do your best as you stay indoors away from the cold.

Insulation upgrades

Winter is the ideal season to enhance your home’s energy efficiency by upgrading insulation. This project helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home warmer and reducing heating costs. While costs may vary, investing in high-quality insulation results in benefits in the long term, including lower energy bills and the potential for increased property value.

Home maintenance company, Rümi Home Services writes, “By assessing your home insulation, windows, doors, and HVAC systems, you can reduce any energy inefficiencies in your home. If you discover cracks or gaps are letting the heat out, or your furnace is working overtime to keep the heat in, it could be time for some re-sealing, an upgrade in windows and insulation, or it may be time to clean your furnace ducts. Trust a reliable company like Rümi Home Services to take care of all these winter to-do’s and keep your home cozy all winter long.”

Eliza Morrill of Momstrosity shares how she weatherproofs her home during the cold months. She says, “Though winter can be a time to slow down for most; when it comes to home improvement, it’s a great time to get things done. Adding weatherproof strips to exterior doors and shoring up any cracks or insulation gaps can not only help bring down your heating bill, but also keep you cozy during the colder months. Winter is also a great time to tackle projects that add both value and functionality.”

Liz Young, founder and CEO of Realm a renovations marketplace, adds, “For larger projects, focus on upgrading your home’s insulation, in areas like the attic, basement, and walls. Most heat loss occurs in the attic, so it’s important to properly insulate so that there’s a barrier to keep heat from escaping. Sealing air cracks is another inexpensive and impactful way to boost energy efficiency, but if your windows and doors are outdated, it might be worth replacing them to get the best results.”

Creating a cozy place

An improvement for both your home and yourself is creating a cozier living space. Dayna Dyer, of This Yellow Farmhouse shares how she made her home a happier winter place. “Our sunroom was transformed for the better in the winter, and we lined the walls with shelves of wool yarn and stacks of cotton fabric. Turning the room into a craft room brought an unexpected cozy change: a warmth that filled the otherwise chilly room in Midwest winters.

Adding extra curtains, or creating shelves of fabric adds the comfort of a hobby on display, but also natural insulation. Fold a blanket over a ladder leaned against the wall if you don’t have an abundance of cozy craft supplies. Add wall hangings to the open walls you don’t know what to do with. Just like a sweater wraps us up on a January morning, wrap up your walls with warm textiles and fibers for a cozier winter home.”

Having a new home look can also improve your ambiance and well-being. As

Eddie Shekari of Pro Painters says, “Painting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve your home. It always amazes me what a simple coat of paint will do to change the look and feel of your home. By painting the walls in your living room or repairing your kitchen cabinets will change the space and make such a dramatic difference. There are a lot of options when it comes to home improvements, but painting has always been one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your home.”

Smart thermostat installation

Upgrade your home’s heating system by installing a smart thermostat. This winter home improvement project, which usually costs between $200 and $300, allows you to control your home’s temperature remotely, leading to energy savings and increased comfort. Christopher Barnes of Grit City Maintenance notes, “A great idea is upgrading to a Smart Thermostat. Installing a programmable or smart thermostat allows homeowners to optimize heating schedules and save on energy costs without sacrificing comfort.”

Lucy from UrbanTasker adds her experience with smart thermostats and the demand her company sees with help installing them. She says, “Smart thermostats are a low-cost investment that can reduce heating and cooling bills by 5-10% while maintaining comfort. UrbanTasker receives ~100 tasks for smart thermostat installations monthly, with many clients reporting savings.” Winter installation is convenient, with fewer demands on HVAC professionals and the added benefit of immediate energy efficiency improvements.

Refreshing your living space

Give your kitchen a facelift without breaking the bank by refinishing your cabinets. This cost-effective winter project can be completed for under $500. Refinishing cabinets is a quick and efficient way to modernize the heart of your home, even if you have a tight budget.

Or revitalize your bathroom by upgrading fixtures such as faucets, shower heads, and lighting. This relatively low-cost project, usually ranging from $500 to $1,500, can instantly modernize the space and improve functionality. Upgraded fixtures not only enhance your daily routine but also contribute to a more appealing and comfortable home.

Basement waterproofing

Protect your home from winter’s harsh elements by investing in basement waterproofing. This essential improvement can prevent water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. While costs may range from $2,000 to $6,000, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Winter is a great time to start this project as it tackles potential vulnerabilities ahead of spring rains, ensuring a dry and secure basement.

Ceiling fan installation

Improve both aesthetics and energy performance by installing ceiling fans in key rooms. Christie MacDonald of 1st Choice Property Management recommend to readers that, “Winter home improvement projects that truly pay off focus on both comfort and efficiency. Reposition furniture away from vents and heaters to maximize airflow, and use ceiling fans on a low, clockwise setting to push warm air down.” This affordable winter project helps distribute warm air more effectively in the winter and cool air in the summer. The energy savings, combined with the visual appeal of stylish ceiling fans, make this an easy and cost-effective improvement.

Window improvements

Upgrade your home’s energy performance by replacing old or drafty windows. New windows not only improve insulation but also enhance natural light, aesthetics, and soundproofing. The energy savings and improved comfort make this project a wise choice for homeowners struggling with expensive electric bills. Clyde J. Lundeen of Windows America shares, “New Windows are one of the best ways to improve the value of your home. For example, we have styles that will update the look of your home and drastically improve the energy efficiency of your home. The technology of windows and glass has improved so much that you should at least take advantage of a free inspection and at least get an idea of what a window project costs and value is.”

Metropolitan High Performance Windows adds, “Replacing old or inefficient windows and doors is one of the most impactful upgrades. High-performance, energy-efficient windows and doors reduce heat loss, lower energy bills, and create a warmer, cozier interior. Additionally, upgrading to modern designs can boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Low-E glass and proper insulation to keep drafts out and heat in. Seal gaps and apply weatherstripping for extra protection during the colder months. Investing in these updates will improve your home’s comfort now and pay dividends in energy savings for years to come.”

Diana Livshits of Krumpers Solar Blinds recommends adding solar blinds for the ultimate home window upgrade. She says, “Designed with a smart-tech two-sided technology to keep the heat in during winter and block it out in summer (you simply turn the blinds around)—all while giving you a crystal-clear view! These energy-efficient blinds (lab tested to illustrate a reduction in heating and cooling by up to 41%) not only lower your utility bills but also add a sleek, modern touch worthy of an HGTV feature with Scott McGillivray on Vacation House Rules. Say goodbye to compromise and hello to year-round comfort, temperature control, style, and savings!”

Heater pump installation

As we face rising energy costs and the need for more sustainable solutions, now is the perfect time to consider upgrading your home’s heating system. Quit Carbon shares the benefits of making the switch over to a heater pump.

“Winter is the perfect time to upgrade your home’s heating system, and switching to a heat pump is a smart move for comfort, energy savings, and sustainability. Heat pumps improve indoor air quality and create a cozier, healthier environment for your family with air that’s consistently at the perfect temperature – no more blasts of hot, dry air from a furnace. Heat pumps are highly efficient, providing both heating and cooling, and they work well even in cold climates. You can choose between central ducted heat pumps, which replace your existing furnace and air conditioner units, and mini split heat pumps, which don’t need ducting and can be controlled independently.

By extracting heat from the air or ground, they use 3-4 times less energy than traditional furnaces, cutting your utility bills significantly. Federal, state, and local tax credits and rebates also dramatically lower the upfront cost of a heat pump.”

Let the air in

Suzanne Roynon an Interiors Therapy expert and member of the International Feng Shui Guild advises to do something you wouldn’t expect: Let the cold air in.

She writes, “What I’m about to say might seem counterintuitive, but it’s going to improve the health of home and occupants. Quite simply, get some fresh air inside the house, even if it’s absolutely frigid! Unfortunately, when it’s cold, we seal ourselves into a soup of recirculated air. That’s a brilliant way to spread germs, bugs, and bacteria. It also makes folks really irritable and sleep quality is diminished.

 By allowing fresh, oxygenated air into the space without the dryness associated with HVAC, you’ll boost brain function, productivity, and mood. Along the way, you reduce headaches, stuffy nose, dry eyes and throat. It really only takes opening a door or window for 30 seconds to get the air and chi life force energy in a room flowing more effectively, so pull on a sweater and brace yourself – you’ll feel loads better afterward.”

Smart lighting system installation

Enhance your home’s functionality and energy performance by installing a smart lighting system. This winter home improvement project, which can cost between $500 and $2,000 depending on the complexity, allows you to control lighting remotely. Additionally, the convenience and energy savings make this a modern and attractive feature for many homeowners.

Crawl space encapsulation

Crawl space encapsulation stands out as a key project to safeguard your home in the colder months. The process involves sealing thecrawl space beneath your home to create a barrier against moisture, pests, and potential issues that could compromise your home’s structural integrity.

Winter proves to be an opportune time for crawl space encapsulation, primarily because the drier air allows for efficient installation and curing of materials. By addressing this project during the colder months, you can fortify your home against the impending challenges of spring rains and thawing snow.

Fireplace upgrade

Make your living space more cozy and appealing by upgrading your fireplace. This can involve refacing the fireplace, adding a new mantel, or converting to a more efficient gas or electric model. A stylish and functional fireplace can be a focal point in your home, adding both aesthetic value and charm.

However, inspecting your fireplace is a must as Jimi Honochick from YMI Insurance says: “As an insurance agency, our absolute best suggestion for a winter home improvement project is to have your chimney and fireplace inspected! There is nothing better on a cold day than snuggling up to a crackling fire, but that perfect evening can turn into a disaster if proper maintenance has been neglected. A professional chimney inspection and cleaning will reduce your risk of fire and let you enjoy the fireplace without worry.”

After it’s safe to enjoy spending time alone or with your family enjoying this cozy feature in your home. Pat of the I Think Therefore I Dad blog, notes, “We live in Michigan, so cold weather is inescapable, but we try our best to make our home comfortable. This year we added an electric fireplace to our living room. It provides a nice bit of extra warmth without making the furnace work over time, and also has adjustable settings for flame color which the kids really love to play with. Also, a staple in our house is blankets. Lots and lots of blankets. Taking your favorite blanket with you from room to room isn’t just for toddlers, you know.”

Landscaping enhancements

Winter is an opportune time to plan and implement landscaping improvements. While the garden may be dormant, adding features like walkways, outdoor lighting, or even planting evergreen shrubs can boost curb appeal. Costs vary widely based on the scope of the project, but a well-executed landscaping upgrade can make your home stand out, come springtime.

Flooring refinishing

Give your home a fresh look by refinishing the flooring in high-traffic areas. Whether you have hardwood, laminate, or tile floors, this project can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the materials. Refinishing not only restores the beauty of your floors but also adds durability, making it an investment that can pay off in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

Wrapping up: Winter home improvement

This blog is packed with practical and creative ideas to make your home warmer, cozier, and more efficient all winter. From upgrading insulation and sealing drafts to installing smart thermostats, it covers simple ways to save on energy bills while staying comfortable. Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to invest, we hope we inspired everyone to improve their home and stay warmer this winter.

Contact us today to learn how we can help improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep you comfortable all year long.

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