Home Improvement Projects for Winter

While winter is the season when you may want to curl up under a blanket to stay warm and cozy, it doesn’t mean you should take a break from maintaining your home. Instead of hibernating during the coldest months of the year, give your home some TLC with these projects.

Upgrade your kitchen cabinets

If your kitchen cabinets are in good shape but appear a little dated, a fresh coat of paint can give them a brand-new look. Make sure to match the cabinets to the countertops by painting them a neutral color, such as white, beige, or gray. After you’ve finished painting your cabinets, add some new hardware like handles, knobs, and hinges to complete the transformation. Just make sure you allow freshly painted cabinets to dry thoroughly before replacing the doors and installing new hardware.

 

 

Add crown molding

Installing crown molding can upgrade the aesthetic of your rooms without performing a major renovation. You’ll typically place crown molding where a wall meets the ceiling. However, you can also install it above entryways, cabinets, and mantels. There are a variety of crown molding options to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits the personality of your space.

Organize catchall areas

Your garage or basement can be a prime location for an abundance of items to pile up over time. If you haven’t organized these areas in a while, take time to complete the task this winter. Once you’re finished organizing, you can donate any gently used goods to local charities or shelters.

For your garage:

  • Separate items into categories, and place them on individual shelves or in different bins.
  • Utilize wall hooks and hanging shelving for storage.
  • Use ceiling hooks to store things like bikes and ladders.
  • Install a pegboard to organize tools.

For your basement:

  • Install sturdy shelving to clear floor space.
  • Store items in clearly labeled containers and boxes.
  • Place any furniture on blocks, and cover it with a drop cloth.
  • Label power, gas, and water sources in case you need to shut them off.

 

 

Upgrade your insulation

A cold draft in your home can chill you to your core, so call a contractor to ensure your insulation is ready for the season if you think there may be an issue. An insulation upgrade can help you save up to 15 percent on your heating and cooling bills.

Check safety devices

According to the Red Cross, December and January are the months with the most house fires, so make sure to spend some time checking your safety devices. Ensure you have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms outside of each bedroom and on each level of your home. Replace smoke alarms every ten years and carbon monoxide alarms every five to seven years. Be sure to test your alarms monthly, and replace batteries at least every six months. If you want more peace of mind, you can install a smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector that will send notifications to your phone.

Replace fixtures

If you’re looking for a simpler project to complete, updating any older fixtures can help give your rooms an all-new personality. Replace mismatched light switches and outlet covers with neutral styles, and switch out all your interior door hardware to create a cohesive appearance throughout your space. You can also switch tired lighting fixtures and dated faucets to bring a modern look and feel to your home.

 

 

Increase your kitchen storage

Depending on the size and layout of your kitchen, you can increase your storage space by completing a few simple projects. Ideas include:

  • Adding or upgrading your pot rack
  • Installing a pegboard to hang pots, pans, and utensils
  • Hanging a magnetic knife strip
  • Placing pot rails or shelves to the side of cabinets
  • Putting shelf risers on your counters and in your cabinets

Switch to LED lightbulbs

Even a small task can make a significant impact on your home. Switching your home’s lights to LED lightbulbs can help reduce your energy consumption. According to the Department of Energy, LED lightbulbs use 75 percent less energy and last more than 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs.

Winter can also be a great time to clean every nook and cranny of your home. Use these tips to make tackling the chore a lot less tedious.

 

BY NATHAN SMITH

 

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