Americans spend more than $230 billion on home improvements each year and that number is expected to grow according to the Home Improvement Research Institute. Why all the fuss? Home improvements, even simple projects such as adding a neighbor-friendly vinyl fence, can improve curb appeal, increase a home's value and generally make home a more enjoyable place to live. When looking for ways to improve your home, get creative and consider some of these home-improving projects:
? Upgrade to vinyl windows. You can lose 30 to 40 percent of heating and cooling costs through older, single-pane windows. Installing Energy Star-rated vinyl windows can help decrease energy bills while improving indoor comfort. New styles are designed to add a dramatic eye-appealing element to the overall appearance of your home-both inside and out.
? Become a front-porch neighbor. For a homeowner looking for a quick makeover for the front porch, vinyl porch post wraps are available that wrap around wood posts to improve their look and endurance against the elements.
? Install long-lasting railings. A subtle change such as replacing worn wood railings on your deck or porch with easy care vinyl or composite railings can make a big difference. Panorama? Composite Railing System, by CertainTeed, is a new product that gives the appearance of freshly painted wood yet, unlike wood, is virtually maintenance-free.
? Replace worn-out siding. Deteriorating or saggy siding makes an entire house look tired. Products such as CertainTeed's Cedar Impressions? cedar-style polymer siding or WeatherBoards? FiberCement Siding can give your home a much-needed face lift at an affordable price compared to traditional materials. These unique siding products create an authentic wood-like appeal, yet provide the low-maintenance durability of modern siding.
? Add appropriate levels of fiber glass insulation. Increasing insulation in attics, basement walls, floors over unheated crawlspaces and in vaulted ceilings can keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer while saving you money.
Author Bio:
Products that earn the ENERGY STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA and DOE. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov. Using energy efficiently at home can be as easy as changing a light bulb.
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