Best Times of The Year to Renovate Certain Parts of The Home [Infographic]
Renovations...they can be fun or they can be cumbersome. When you choose the right time of year to do your renovations, however, you'll find that things go a lot smoother. Did you know home improvement seasonality can save (or cost) you lots of money? If you want to get the best bang for your buck, here are some things to think about when you're doing your next remodeling project:
January through Early March: Additions to your home
- The best month for house renovation projects that are going to add square footage to your home is actually February or early March when the ground is still frozen. This sounds counter-intuitive, but the frozen ground and dry air actually makes it easier for contractors to pour concrete.
- Builders tend to be less busy during the winter months, so you may score discounts. At a minimum, it'll be easier to schedule your project.
- Less chance for mixups or inaccurate orders when builders aren't overwhelmed with work
April through June: Outdoor projects like decks, patios, and paved walkways
If you've ever asked yourself, "When do people remodel their house?", it's often not during springtime unless they have a lot of extra cash to spend.
- Builders and craftsmen are busiest during spring, so they can charge a premium for their prices
- This is a great time to do the DIY projects you've put on the back burner
- Consider painting your home, building a deck, or cleaning out your garage while contractor fees are at their highest. When everything is cleaned up and prices come down, it'll be easier to afford a contractor for your renovation needs
July through September: Bathroom Remodeling
Since you'll be spending much of your time outdoors or away from home during the vacation months, it makes the most sense to renovate your bathroom during the end of summer. You can have someone check in on your place while you're away, but you'll avoid the unpleasantness of being without a bathroom or two, which would be a serious inconvenience if you were home during the remodel.
- Schedule your bathroom remodels while you'll be away
- Ask for references and referrals to be sure you hire a reputable contractor you can trust
- Make sure you understand all the paperwork before you leave
- Have a friend or neighbor check in on the progress once every day or two
- Hire a landscaper to take care of the lawn and make your curb aesthetics stunning so you can come back home to a beautiful lawn before you even see your new bathroom
October through December
The cheapest time of the year to remodel kitchen areas is usually the end of the year just before the holidays approach. Contractors' workflows slow down significantly, which means they may be more available than they would be in the spring or summer. Additionally, materials may be more affordable, as there's less demand.
- Schedule your kitchen remodel on a year when you won't be entertaining guests for the holidays.
- Allow plenty of leeway for delays in delivery, as inclement weather can push the dates back more than initially expected.
- Put supply and demand to work for you by working with contractors who aren't in their busy season when you want your biggest renovations done. It'll save you a lot of money and time in the long run, and you're more likely to have dedicated customer service if you have questions or concerns.
At RWC Windows, Doors & More, we help people remodel their homes the right way. Contact us for an initial consultation, and let our experienced pros guide you through the process!
Tips To Get a Jump Start on Fall Home Maintenance
With the summer coming to a close, it's time to take a closer look at your fall home maintenance schedule. Your home is going to be more energy efficient and less maintenance issues when you inspect your property every season and make any small repairs necessary. To get a jump start on your fall home maintenance, it's time to inspect your home and get to work on your maintenance list.
Inspect Your Property Carefully
When it comes to getting a jump start on fall home maintenance, it's important to inspect your property. Look for damage to your roof, windows, trim and make a list of any problems that you find. If the exterior needs to be painted, get this done before the winter weather hits. Consider your landscaping, and check on the health of the trees and shrubs around your home. Look at the gutters, and get ready to clean them out once all the leaves have fallen.
Come Up with a Maintenance List
The easiest way to get started on your maintenance is to create a list of tasks. Good preparation will help you stay focused when you have limited time on the weekends to get your maintenance done. For any tasks where you need help, schedule service to come and do the work for you before the season gets busy. Get the work done early so that you are ready for the cooler weather that you know is coming.
Focus On Fall Prevention
If you expect icy cold weather within a few months, a focus on preventing falls should be part of your home maintenance each autumn. Look at your walkways and make sure there aren't any loose bricks or other hazards. Check the railings to see if they are secure. Once the ice and snow pile up, you want to be sure that it is easy to keep your walkways free from ice so that no one falls.
Get Your Heating System Serviced
Your heating system should be checked before you need to turn it on every day in order to prevent problems. The efficiency of your furnace should be tested, and your furnace cleaned for the upcoming season. Your air filters should be changed and any fuel supply topped off. If any repairs are needed on your heating system, they should be done before the weather turns cold.
Get Your Gutters Cleaned
Gutters should be cleaned twice a year, and not until after all the leaves have fallen this fall. Your downspouts should be cleaned out and ready to move water from your roof and away from your home. If you can't get up to the gutters, get them professionally cleaned before the cold weather hits to protect your home.
To get a jump start on your home maintenance this fall:
- do a careful inspection both inside and out to identify areas that need to be addressed.
- take care of basic maintenance like gutter cleaning and furnace servicing.
- make a list and schedule time to do each task.
- contract for any help that you need early on to avoid problems with scheduling.
If you are trying to complete your home maintenance tips for fall and you need help, it's time to contact RWC Windows, Doors & More in West Caldwell, NJ at 973-435-4230. We provide home maintenance tips and tricks so you can complete your fall checklist and be ready for the cold weather to come.
Everything You Need To Know About Painting Your Front Door
Wondering how to paint a front door correctly? Painting your home's front door is one of the more common do-it-yourself summer home improvement projects. But, before you pick up that paintbrush, there are many things to consider. This includes: trending paint colors, the type of paint to use for the door material, and what products can improve the paint's performance and make the paint job last longer.
Creative Ideas for Painting Your Front Door
Today's front door colors are bolder and brighter than ever before. A colorful front door is not only pretty, but can also create a unique focal point for the entire property. When choosing a paint color, first decide if you desire a cool color (blues, browns, greens) or a warm color (reds, yellows, gray). Within each of these major groups you will find many hues and shades to choose from. Some new trendy exterior door ideas include Aqua, Mint Green, Lilac, Mustard Yellow, Coral, and Peach.
Whichever front door paint color you choose, be sure it blends with the overall exterior of the home, and makes a strong statement that reflects your family's personality. Choose a few paint chips or purchase small paint samples to see how the color looks during different times of the day.
What Kind of Paint to Use on a Front Door?
The best paint for a front door is one that’s specifically designated for exterior surfaces. Glossy or semi-gloss paints are typically used for front doors, but an eggshell or flat finish are also available. When considering flat paint, remember that it is harder to clean and will show scrapes and nicks better than a glossy paint. A high gloss front door paint will make your door stand out and will exaggerate the architectural features of the door.
Next, you want to consider if an oil-based paint, water-based, or latex paint is best. Whichever you choose, make sure your primer is of the same formula. Latex paints are certainly easier to apply, easier to clean up, and will dry faster. But, oil-based paints last longer and stand up to harsh weather best. Expect a long dry time with oil-based paints and you will need turpentine or paint thinner to clean up any spills.
How to Paint a Metal Front Door
From one of the most handy of handymen, Bob Vila makes these suggestions for painting a metal exterior door:
- If possible, remove the door from its hinges then clean with a degreaser and lightly sand
- Next, you will apply the first coat of primer. Allow it to dry then apply another coat if necessary
- Finally, you will paint the door with two coats of satin or semi-gloss paint and allow to fully dry
- Re-hang the door, replace hardware, and remove any painter's tape around the frame
Important Tips for Painting Your Front Door
Always consider the time of year when you decide to paint your front door and always check the weather forecast. The best conditions when painting a front door for your home are a clear and sunny day without extreme temperatures. While warm days are preferred over cold days, if it is too hot the binding properties of the paint can be affected. This means a paint job that may peel or crack sooner than you expect.
Also, consider the drying process. A warm and overcast day is optimum - but more importantly, you want to choose a day when the humidity levels are low and between 40%-50%. High humidity slows down the drying process. The best time of day for this project is in the early morning, after the overnight dew has evaporated, and there is a gentle breeze to help speed along the drying process. If you’re doubting the best way to paint your door, don’t do it! Leave it to a professional to ensure the best, long lasting results.
Final Exterior Door Painting Ideas & Tips
- Choose a fresh color for your front door, but stay within your personality and comfort levels
- The best type of exterior door paint is a latex paint with a semi-gloss finish
- Avoid painting on days that are very hot, rainy, or a high humidity
- When in doubt, leave your paint job to the professionals
For all your home improvement needs, including exterior front door replacement when a new custom painting simply won’t correct issues with front door that is rusted, swollen, has dings, has hardware issues, is drafty, or shows signs of water or insect damage, contact RWC!
Visit the showroom of RWC Windows, Doors, and More for plenty of front door design ideas from modern, double entry doors to traditional wood doors to recreate your home's architectural detail.
4 Signs It Might Be Time To Change Your Windows
Windows are one of the most functional and aesthetic features of a home. In general terms, windows should last between 15 and 30 years before you need replacements, but this is just a general rule of thumb since some windows can last far longer. Here are four signs it might be time for new windows for your home.
1. Your Windows Are Not In Good Condition
There's nothing good about warped, broken, or damaged windows. Unfortunately, these kinds of issues are common in older homes and when windows have been kept in use beyond how long they really should be. If you see gaps around window frames due to warping, have mold buildup between sealed glass panes, or have windows that won't even open and close, it is a good indication you need replacements.
2. Your Windows Are Not As Efficient As They Should Be
According to Energy.gov, bad windows can account for 10 to 25 percent of heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. These kinds of numbers can drastically affect how much you are paying to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. While you may not be able to tell by looking that your windows are to blame for higher-than-typical energy bills, you can spot inefficient windows by looking at:
- The energy rating of the window
- Whether you feel drafts around the window in the winter
- How much heat you feel on your skin when standing in front of a window in the summer
3. The Windows Compromise the Value of the Home
When buyers are viewing a home for sale, one of the first things they will want to look at is the windows. Poor-quality windows make a home inefficient and not as good-looking as it should be. Much of the cost of replacement windows can be recouped when you sell the house, so prior to selling is the best time to replace windows. New windows installation cost is offset by what you garner when you do sell.
4. Accumulation of Moisture Is an Ongoing Window Problem
You have pesky moss or mildew growing between glass panes, condensation will not go away, and your windows frost inside during the winter. These kinds of issues are relative to older windows that are not designed to thwart heat and cold transfer. Over time, these problems can easily lead to moisture damage, so replacing windows that have these issues is a good idea.
Takeaways to Remember That Tell You to Get New Windows
- Moisture problems in and around windows are not a good sign
- Windows can lower the value of your home before listing it for sale
- Older windows commonly need their windows replaced
- Damaged windows can generate a lot of problems and should be replaced
- Energy-efficiency is greatly affected by bad windows or old windows in bad shape
Overall, window replacement is one of the best investments you can make in your home’s efficiency, and beauty. Use these signs to help you determine if it is time to make a change. Reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors & More if you suspect it is time to get your windows replaced and you want to find the best options.