SAHBA Home Hints
December 28, 2008
New Year's Resolutions for a Better Home
With New Year's resolutions in high demand, homeowners should take some time to make a few resolutions for their home. By spending a little time on home improvements, homeowners will notice a difference.
SAHBA has compiled a list from the National Association of Home Builders to provide homeowners with a few ideas on how they can improve their homes.
Homeowners should take time to check their smoke detectors. Make sure the home's smoke detectors are in good working condition and have new batteries. This is a home's best defense in case of a fire.
Through a simple paint job or even a complete remodel, homeowners should make their home look its best. One of the cheapest and easiest ways is through a fresh coat of paint to breath new life into a room. Also, simple upgrades such as new kitchen countertops, bathroom fixtures or new lighting can make a big difference.
Don't forget about the outside. A home's exterior is what creates a first impression. Be sure that siding, paint, landscaping, and any other outside areas look well tended.
With energy costs on the rise, homeowners always can benefit from looking for ways of cutting costs and saving energy. Throughout the year, adjust heating or cooling units while away to save on heating and cooling bills.
Adding insulation also can help cut down on that energy bill. Check for drafty windows and doors and replace if necessary.
Keeping up on the maintenance of home appliances will save money and keeps a home running smoothly and efficiently.
Seasonal furnace maintenance is very important. Don't forget to change or clean filters once a month, or as needed. Also, it is important to clean the lint from the clothes dryer vent regularly. A clogged vent will make the dryer less efficient and is a major fire hazard.
Take time to get rid of clutter. The longer people live in a home, the more they accumulate. Garages and closets frequently can become so cluttered they aren't even used for their main purposes. Not only does clutter look messy, it takes away precious space.
Homeowners can sell items they no longer want to make a little extra money in these hard economic times while eliminating clutter.
Details: www.nahb.org.
SAHBA represents about 720 member businesses serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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