Shift to Savings: Practical Home Improvement is Popular

When it comes to home improvement, taking on the challenge yourself is “in.”  Today’s savvy homeowners are tackling practical renovations like adding energy-efficient replacement windows to update their homes and save money on heating and cooling costs.

Tackling do-it-yourself (DIY) jobs can add style and functionality.  In fact, mastering new DIY skills has become a badge of honor for many homeowners.  Wielding a hammer and fixing a broken faucet are now considered “status skills.”  There’s a strong sense of personal satisfaction in making home improvements, whether it’s learning how to shingle, paint window trim or install a patio door.

Here’s a list of DIY suggestions to help spruce up and maintain your windows and doors:

-  Inspect interior and exterior finishes around windows and doors.  Look for peeling or chipped finishes.

- Check windowsills and tracks for dirt and debris.  Clean out the area with a dry paintbrush.  Do the same for patio doors.

-  Feel for uneven sliding and sticking when you open and close a window.  Try using a non-oil lubricant like paraffin wax on surfaces to help the window glide more easily.

- Inspect weather stripping around doors and windows.  Reattach or replace as necessary.

-  Position sprinklers to water your landscape, not your windows or doors.  Extended exposure to water can lessen the life of building products.

- Trim plants and shrubs so they are not brushing up against windows and doors.

- Make sure windows and doors close and lock properly to help seal out moisture.

- If your windows have them, inspect weep holes or breather holes designed to allow water to drain.  Clear blocked holes with a wire or toothpick.

- Check exterior sealants and caulking around windows and doors.  Remove damaged material and reapply new sealant.

- Look for signs of air leakage around windows.  If it’s significant, consider replacing them with energy-efficient windows, installed properly.

Do you have worn-out windows or a broken door?  For safety’s sake, replace windows and doors that are jammed, painted or nailed shut.  Make sure you can open them quickly to escape during an emergency.

You can find energy-efficient ENERGY STAR-qualified replacement windows and doors at local home improvement stores.  Choose from in-stock options or special order a custom window or door.  You can also pick up vinyl sliding patio doors featuring popular between-the-glass blinds that never need dusting.

If you’re looking for more design flexibility, look for wood-clad windows and patio doors, as well as entry doors and select storm doors.

Courtesy of ARA Content