When homeowners think of home improvement projects, they usually think of heavy outdoor work done in the spring and summer. Yet a home can benefit from projects in winter, as well. In fact, smaller indoor projects have many benefits, including helping homeowners avoid the "winter blahs." The team at Dickerson Nieman loves home-based projects, and today, we'll suggest a few that will keep your home updated, warm, and cozy.
Spruce Up the Kitchen
The kitchen is often a home's hub, especially during winter when everyone migrates inside for hot drinks and warm meals. Give your kitchen a winter makeover with some simple touches. Replace old cabinet handles and drawer pulls, or decorate the ones you have with removable paint or easy glazes. Update your surfaces; if your faux granite counter seems too dark, try faux green or blue marble instead. Consider trading laminate flooring for hardwood, and re-stain wooden surfaces or fixtures.
Get Colorful
Winter is an ideal time for small paint jobs. If you've always used neutral colors, consider light shades of yellow, blue, or green. These shades bring cheerfulness and calm to rooms that may look dull during cold, cloudy winter weather. Start small; paint a child's room or a bathroom before tackling dining rooms or family rooms. If you don't have the time or money for a full paint job, touch up the one you have with contrasting accents or brighter shades in the same color family you're using.
Be Mr. or Ms. Fix-It
During winter, many homes get new leaks, cracks, or other cosmetic damage. It's tempting to let these issues go until spring, but fixing them now means less stress later. Repair minor issues like leaks, doors that stick, or small holes as you find them. Repair any appliances or electronics that have developed problems during the fall, particularly kitchen appliances. If you find a minor rodent or insect problem, call an exterminator immediately. In the meantime, set up do-it-yourself remedies like mousetraps to discourage further infestation.
De-Clutter
The holidays mean gifts, and that means a glut of stuff. Once the festivities end, make a family project out of de-cluttering your home. Donate old clothing, books, toys, and appliances to charity, or offer them to friends. Single parents, the elderly, and college students in particular are often in the market for used items in good condition. Once you've de-cluttered, set up an organizational system for the possessions remaining. Plastic tubs or bins or vacuum-sealed bags are ideal for toys, bedding, and other items.
Have a "Winter Cleaning"
Don't wait for spring to give your home a thorough cleaning. Remember, winter is prime time for allergies, colds, and respiratory viruses to crop up. Dust regularly and sweep or damp-mop floors. Vacuum at least twice every 1–2 weeks, and change bed linens every week without exception. You can also "spot-clean" throughout the winter, especially in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms.
Dickerson & Nieman Realtors
6277 E. Riverside Blvd
Rockford, IL 61114
Phone: 815-227-5900
Email: Send Email
Rockford area Real Estate Company