As winter rolls in across New England, many home improvement projects get set aside for the spring: The cold weather and moisture make winter a less-than-ideal time for most larger projects. Winter does however offer a unique opportunity to tackle other projects that can make your home both more functional and comfortable. While a larger home addition or remodel might be best planned in the winter for a spring start, today we’ll take a look at the best projects to take on over the winter, that are least impacted by the cold weather.
Winter-Proofing Your Home: Sealing the Leaks
Starting off strong with a project that’s certain to make your home immediately more comfortable throughout the winter: Insulation. Winter-proofing your home increases the amount of warmth that stays trapped as well as adding energy efficiency. East steps to winter-proofing that can be DIY’ed during the colder months are sealing gaps in doors and windows, insulating attics and basements, and identifying any other drafty areas that may need sealed. These steps not only enhance your comfort and keep your home warmer, but also save money as you spend less on heating.
Cabinet Refinishing: A Cost-Effective Facelift
Give your kitchen a fresh look by refinishing your cabinets. This cost-effective project involves sanding down old finishes, applying a new coat of paint or stain, and updating hardware. It’s a transformative process that breathes new life into your kitchen without the hefty price tag of a full remodel.
In smaller, darker kitchens, switching to a light neutral toned cabinet color can create an airy, spacious feeling that pairs well with open floorplans and natural light. Likewise, if your kitchen is a larger space that can feel too open, bringing in some darker tones can help to counter the empty, echoey feeling.
- How long does cabinet refinishing take?
- The timeline varies based on the size of your kitchen and the complexity of the cabinets, but generally, it can be completed in a few days
- Can I change my cabinet hardware or layout during refinishing?
- While simple changes like cabinet hardware are easily accomplished, changing your cabinet layout or replacing boxes can quickly drive up costs.
Smart Appliance Integration: Modernize Your Kitchen
Upgrade your kitchen with smart appliances that not only make your life easier but also add a touch of modernity. From smart refrigerators to voice-activated ovens, integrating these technologies can enhance efficiency and streamline your cooking experience. One of our top choices includes adding a smart assistant for hand-free control of timers and immediate access to useful cooking information. You can also take smart-connectivity another step and pair your assistant with smart lights, which allow for color customization, controllable brightness, and more.
All in, for just a few hundred dollars of smart accessories, you can breathe new life and functionality into your whole kitchen without the costs or headaches of a remodel.
Fireplace Facelifts
Take advantage of the winter ambiance by revamping your fireplace. Consider updating the mantel, replacing the surround, or converting it to a more modern gas or electric model. A refreshed fireplace becomes a focal point that adds both warmth and style to your living room. One popular option includes replacing natural stone mantels with flameproof ceramic tile, which come in a variety of finishes ranging from geometric patterns to stone inspired veneers.
Opt for quick-drying adhesives and finishes to expedite the installation process. This is particularly important during the winter when lower temperatures can extend the drying time of certain materials.
Heated Flooring: A Toasty Treat for Your Feet
Combat chilly winter mornings by installing radiant heated flooring in your bathroom. This luxurious upgrade not only adds comfort but also increases energy efficiency. Imagine stepping onto warm tiles instead of a cold floor—pure bliss! While in the past this project may have been limited to only professional installers, products like Schluter’s E-DITRA underfloor heating make installation manageable for DIY enthusiasts and handymen. If you feel confident in your ability to install a tile floor, adding underfloor heating is a great next step to bolster your own skills, and add a wealth of value and comfort to your bathroom.
If using Schluter’s systems, it’s worth mentioning their smartphone compatibility: Your smart appliances and home assistants can pair to your underfloor and shower heating just as easily as a smart light or speaker can.
- Is heated flooring energy-efficient?
- Yes, radiant heated flooring is energy-efficient, as it warms the space directly without relying on forced air.
- Can I install heated flooring myself?
- While it’s possible for experienced DIYers, professional installation is recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Spa-Like Shower Upgrades
Transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat by upgrading your shower. Consider installing a rainfall showerhead, adding body jets, or incorporating a steam feature. These additions turn your daily shower into a rejuvenating experience, perfect for winter relaxation. Tackling shower and bathroom remodels in the winter can be a great time to find contractors with more availability and less pressure to finish the job quickly, ensure you receive higher quality work. While larger shower conversions such as steam units and wall-mounted sprayers will require a professional installer, smaller conversions like rain shower heads, smart lighting, and replacement vents can be completed by a knowledgeable homeowner with some research and dedication, and are also great ways to breathe a little life into a cramped or outdated space.
Illuminate Your Spaces: Lighting Overhaul
While Smart Lighting tends to take most of the attention nowadays, traditional pendant lighting like chandeliers, recessed lighting, and task lighting are all great investments that can drastically change the impression and functionality of a space. Consider starting with a statement chandelier or centerpiece pendant light. Whether in the entryway, dining room, or master bedroom, a carefully chosen chandelier adds elegance and sets the tone for the entire space. Reframing your dining table or entryway with suspended lighting creates an opulent, comfortable feeling throughout the space.
- How do I choose the right size chandelier for my space?
- Measure the room’s length and width in feet, then add those numbers together. The sum, in inches, is an ideal chandelier diameter.
- Can I install a chandelier myself?
- While it’s possible for those with electrical knowledge, hiring a professional ensures proper installation and safety.
As winter unfolds outside, let your home undergo its own transformation. From the heart of your home, the kitchen, to the intimate spaces like the bathroom, these winter remodeling projects can elevate your living experience. Embrace the season by creating a warm, cozy, and stylish haven that you’ll enjoy throughout the winter months and beyond.
