If you’re someone who loves the winter but hates the cold, it can feel a little claustrophobic in your home after spending so much time there. If you live in an older or outdated home it can feel downright drafty at times. If you’re thinking about sprucing up your digs this month but don’t know where to begin, we’ve got just the solution: A December home improvement checklist that will make your house more comfortable (and attractive!) for all seasons ahead.
Wash your windows on the inside.
Scrub your windows on the inside. The outside of your home is a big part of its curb appeal, but it’s also important to keep up with the interior. Start by washing your windows on the inside, which will make them easier to clean in future seasons. Make sure to use a mild cleaner (like vinegar or baking soda) and be sure to clean any window tracks as well. You can always use a squeegee after you wash them as well. Once they’re dry, use a microfiber towel or cloth to wipe away any excess water that remains — these towels are great at absorbing moisture without leaving streaks behind like paper towels do. You might be surprised at how much better your home looks and feels when the sun shines through clean windows!
Change furnace filters and have heaters serviced.
This task only takes a few minutes and will save you money on higher heating bills. Have professional service performed annually and if you plan on going away for more than a week during cold weather season, be sure to take the appropriate precautions to stop pipes from freezing or other issues. This small step could prevent costly repairs down the road if something goes wrong when no one is home to attend to it immediately.
Check your smoke detector batteries.
Smoke detectors are lifesavers, but they only work when their batteries aren’t dead. It’s important to keep track of when you last changed them (and not just because it’s good for your home’s safety). That way, you’ll be able to tell if something is wrong with the detector or if it’s just time for a new set of batteries. Ideally, you should change them twice: once before summer and once before winter—but don’t feel like you need to go through the trouble every season unless you want to! Just make sure that the detector is working properly and replace the old ones with fresh ones as soon as possible if they ever become low or dead.
Replace your front door.
When your front door is in good shape, it can be a great way to welcome guests and make an impression. But if your home’s entryway isn’t as welcoming as it used to be, it may be time for some upgrades. Ask yourself the following questions: Do I need to replace my front door? If so, what kind of door should I get? Are there any necessary aesthetic upgrades I want to make first? What type of lock should I use on my new door? You’ll want to start by getting a professional general contractor who can give you an idea of what kind of money you’re looking at when they assess the current state of things.
Install a new lighting fixture in high-traffic areas like the kitchen or the foyer.
A new lighting fixture is a simple and effective way to make a room look brand new. Installing one doesn’t require much work, but if you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips:
- Make sure the room is well-lit.
- If you have high-traffic areas (like kitchens or hallways) with more than one electrical outlet nearby, install more than one light fixture so there’s always at least one working bulb on at any given time.
- Choose something that matches your decorating style and taste.
This list is just a starting place. You’ll have to do some research and think about what’s most important to you, but the goal is to make sure your home looks its best.
