Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution, summer project, or something you’ve been meaning to do for years, updating your home can make it feel brand new. Use these five simple home updates to get started.
1. Paint your front door and walls
Painting is a simple, timeless home update to make your home feel brand new. It’s also a good motivator to take stock of what’s fallen out of style or gotten a little dirty over time.
When painting your front door, be sure to purchase exterior paint. Many homeowners like to make their front door stand out by using bold colors, like red. And unless you have a door that’s made of high-end wood, painting it can help increase your home’s curb appeal.
For interior painting, invest in higher-quality paints, and make sure you’re choosing the correct finish for the room you’re painting. For example, consider a semi-gloss for rooms that require stain resistance, like kitchens or kids’ rooms.
2. Purchase a new doormat
A doormat adds a subtle zest to your home. Unless you’re thinking about selling soon, you can even get a personalized doormat that shows some personality.
If you haven’t replaced your doormat in a while, it’s a good idea to do so to prevent mold. Additionally, dry rot, which occurs over time, can harbor fungi and spores, which can then track into your home.
3. Clean your windows
This is an especially good idea if you live in areas with blustery winds. But regardless of where you live, your window interiors and exteriors will likely get dirty over time, especially if you have kids or pets who like to make nose art.
We’ve created a comprehensive window-cleaning guide for you. As you clean, just remember some basics:
- Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth instead of paper towels for fewer streaks.
- Try to avoid using hose water to clean your outdoor windows, since it often contains hard minerals that can wear out windowpanes.
- Check your window caulking for cracks, and re-caulk if necessary.
4. Get some indoor plants
Indoor plants are both great to look at and can improve your home’s air quality. You can find many of the best indoor plants at your local gardening shop or hardware store’s garden section.
Check out six of our favorite indoor plants, including the wacky frizzle sizzle.
An important note: Be cautious when choosing plants if you have pets, since some can be toxic.
5. Dust light fixtures and ceiling fans
Dusting your light fixtures and ceiling fans can go a long way in brightening your home and reducing allergens.
Often, a feather duster or microfiber cloth will do the trick. But for caked on grime, you can use a slightly damp washcloth. Just take caution when using water around light fixtures to avoid a shock.
Additionally, if you need to use a ladder to reach fans or lights, make sure you have a spotter. It might seem like overkill to have a spotter, but falling off a ladder is a much bigger hassle than asking someone to spot you.
Bonus tip: Purchase or renew your 2-10 HBW Home Warranty
A 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW) Home Warranty is a great way to protect your home and budget against unexpected breakdowns.
Over time, important home items—like your HVAC system, water heater, and fridge—will break down from routine use. A 2-10 HBW Home Warranty can help you protect your budget and find the right technician for the job.
Plus, your 2-10 HBW Home Warranty gives you access to great perks and programs, like our comprehensive Maintenance Guide and Appliance Discount Program.
2-10 HBW offers quality Home Warranty Service Agreement coverage for homeowners. Let us help you protect your home and budget.
Already a customer? You can renew your Home Warranty Service Agreement coverage today!
Do you have a 2-10 HBW structural warranty? You can purchase Home Warranty Service Agreement coverage today!
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