Fall in Florida means cooler temperatures and lower humidity, the perfect weather for tackling some home improvement projects. As a Tampa Bay homeowner, you've probably got a list of upgrades you've been wanting to do. Why not knock some of them out this season and increase your home's value at the same time? We've got some recommendations for fall home improvment projects that will make your place more comfortable and stylish, all while producing a solid return on your investment. Whether you're looking to refresh your kitchen, boost your home's energy efficiency, or improve your outdoor living space, you'll find smart options here that will have you enjoying the results for years to come. Read on to discover the fall home improvements worth investing in this year. Your home's resale value will thank you.
Prepare for Colder Weather With Energy Efficient Fall Home Improvement Projects
With cooler weather on the way, now is the perfect time to make some energy efficient upgrades to your Florida home. These improvements can lower your utility bills, increase comfort, and boost your home's value.
Insulate Your Attic
Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most impactful steps you can take. Installing R-38 or higher rated insulation will significantly reduce heat transfer to and from your living space. This can lower cooling and heating costs by up to 30% annually.
Improve or replace air ducts
If your air ducts are old, damaged or uninsulated, they can reduce heating and cooling efficiency by up to 60%. Consider sealing and insulating existing ducts or replacing them completely. Upgraded ducts will circulate air more effectively so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
Upgrade to energy efficient windows.
Single pane windows provide little insulation and allow hot or cold air to easily enter your home. Replacing them with double or triple pane windows filled with argon or krypton gas can decrease heat loss by up to 60-70%. Look for windows with a U-factor of 0.3 or less and a SHGC of 0.4 or more to maximize energy savings in Florida.
A well-sealed attic, efficient air ducts, and upgraded windows are some of the best ways to prepare your home for winter while saving money and energy. Make these investments this fall and you’ll be enjoying a cozier, more affordable home for years to come.
Enhance Curb Appeal With Fall Home Improvment Projects That Include Exterior Painting or Landscaping
Enhancing your home's curb appeal is one of the best ways to increase its value. A fresh coat of paint on the exterior or some strategic landscaping are easy, DIY-friendly projects that can pay big dividends.
Exterior Painting
A new coat of paint in an attractive, neutral color is an inexpensive project that can make your home look fresh and new. Be sure to clean and repair any damage to siding or trim first. Then apply a primer followed by two coats of high-quality latex paint. For the best results, use a brush to paint trim and edges and a roller for large, flat areas.
Landscaping
One of the more timely fall home improvement projects can be tending to your home's landscaping. Well-designed landscaping not only makes your home more welcoming and appealing, but it can increase your home's value by up to 14% according to industry experts. Focus on the front yard, where curb appeal matters most. Remove any overgrown shrubs and plant fresh flowers, shrubs, and small trees. Install a walkway to guide visitors to your front door. Add mulch and edging to give your yard a polished look.
Low-maintenance Florida native plants, stones, and mulch are all excellent, eco-friendly options for Tampa Bay yards. An irrigation system on a timer will keep everything looking lush with minimal effort. For the best results, sketch out a simple landscaping plan before purchasing materials. And don't forget to weed, prune, fertilize, and maintain your yard regularly to keep your investment looking its best.
With some time and money invested in exterior upgrades like painting and landscaping, you'll have a home that looks cared for, makes a great first impression, and will yield a solid return on investment when it's time to sell. So get out there this fall and help your Florida home reach its full curb appeal potential!
Increase Living Space With a Sunroom or Patio Addition
A sunroom or patio addition is one of those fall home improvement projects that is a great way to increase your living space and connect with the beautiful Florida outdoors.
Let the Sun Shine In
With lots of windows, a sunroom addition brings natural light and warmth into your home. It provides extra space for relaxing, entertaining, or hobbies like gardening or art projects. Install screens so you can enjoy fresh air without insects. Consider tinted windows for sun protection and energy efficiency.
Increase Home Value
A sunroom or patio addition can significantly boost your home’s value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, a sunroom addition in Florida can return over 70% of the project cost at resale. An open-air patio or deck also ranks high, returning over 80% of costs. These versatile, functional spaces are highly appealing to homebuyers in the Tampa Bay area.
Low Maintenance
Unlike a full home addition, a sunroom or patio requires minimal upkeep. They do not need to be fully insulated or climate-controlled. For a sunroom, you only need to maintain the windows and screens. A patio needs occasional power-washing, re-sealing, and potentially re-staining of deck boards. Keep some patio furniture, plants and decor to make the space welcoming and it’s ready to enjoy.
Consider consulting an architect or contractor to help design a sunroom or patio addition tailored to your needs and budget. They can help determine if a sunroom, open patio, or a combination of the two is right for your Florida home. With a well-designed sunroom or patio, you’ll be enjoying your new favorite living space for years to come.
Boost Home Value With a Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel
A bathroom or kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to significantly boost your home’s value. According to real estate experts, you can recoup 50-70% of the cost of these renovations when you sell. Here are some projects to consider:
Update Fixtures
Replacing outdated fixtures like cabinets, countertops, sinks, and lighting can make a big impact for a lower cost. Opt for high-quality, durable materials like quartz or granite countertops and brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze fixtures. These small upgrades show potential buyers your home has been well-maintained.
Open Floor Plan
Opening up cramped, closed-off rooms can make your space feel more modern and spacious. Remove non-load-bearing walls to create an open concept kitchen and living area. This reconfiguration is appealing to many homebuyers and can increase your home’s value significantly.
Walk-in Shower
If your bathroom only has a tub, consider replacing it with an eye-catching walk-in shower. A stylish shower with features like rainfall shower heads, handheld wands, built-in seating and accent tile can take your bathroom’s wow factor to the next level.
Smart Technology
Integrating smart home technology into your remodel helps ensure maximum value. Things like touch screen lighting controls, wireless Bluetooth speakers, USB charging outlets and smart thermostats are impressive to buyers and useful for everyday living.
A high-impact remodel like opening up your kitchen or installing a luxurious master bathroom can yield big rewards when it’s time to sell. Focus on projects that improve functionality and flow, incorporate premium and tech-savvy materials, and suit the style of homes in your neighborhood. With strategic upgrades like these, you’ll recoup the most value from your investment and attract serious offers when your home hits the market.
Ensure Safety With Roof and Gutter Repairs or Replacement
The hot Florida sun can do serious damage to your roof and gutters over time. As a homeowner, it’s important to have your roof and gutters inspected regularly to ensure there are no issues that could lead to leaks or water damage. Fall is a great time of year to schedule necessary repairs or replacement for your roof and gutters, especially if there are signs of damage or age.
Inspect Your Roof
- Have a professional home inspector evaluate your roof for signs of damage like cracks, dents, or holes in shingles. They can also check that all flashing around edges and joints is securely sealed.
- If your roof is over 15-20 years old, it’s a good idea to consider replacement. Asphalt or fiberglass shingles typically last 20-30 years in Florida’s climate.
- A new roof, especially an energy efficient one, can significantly increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
Clear and Repair Gutters
- Clogged or damaged gutters cannot properly direct rainwater away from your home. Have your gutters cleaned and inspected for any needed repairs or replacement.
- Look for signs of rust, sagging, or holes along the gutters and downspouts. These issues need to be addressed to prevent water damage to your fascia boards, siding, and foundation.
- Consider gutter guards or leaf-proof gutters to reduce clogs from the many trees in Florida. These provide an easy solution for homeowners wanting to avoid frequent gutter cleaning.
Investing in essential roof and gutter repairs or replacement in the fall can give you peace of mind and help prevent costly damage to your home during the rainy season. Be sure to hire a reputable, professional home inspection company to evaluate what work needs to be done. They can provide detailed recommendations and estimates so you know exactly what needs fixing or replacing to keep your Florida home safe and protected.
Before Committing To Fall Home Improvement Projects, Call Solid Rock Inspections Group
There are some easy ways to make your home more comfortable and valuable this fall. Any of these projects would be worthwhile, but if you do more than one, you'll really reap the benefits. Not only will you increase your home's value and curb appeal, but you'll get to enjoy the upgrades yourself for years to come. However, before investing in your home this fall the season, call Solid Rock Inspections Group for a home inspection. An inspection will help guide you on the projects that are a priority. Call us at (727) 386-8627 or contact us on our website here. By investing in your home's curb appeal, your neighborhood and your wallet will thank you.