Home Improvement 101
Home improvement is the activity of making changes to the structure and fixtures in a house or apartment. The term also includes the modification of a garden or lawn, adding features such as swimming pools and gazebos, and constructing buildings on the property. It is an industry that encompasses the supply of building materials, appliances, decor, and labor. The home improvement industry has achieved excellent growth results in recent years. This is largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic that caused people to stay home and focus on renovating their homes.
The biggest reason homeowners take on home improvement projects is to increase the value of their house. This can be done by installing new features or refinishing old ones. Other reasons include repairing safety issues, such as electrical problems or roof leaks, and upgrading the home’s function for the residents. Examples of this are opening up the main living area, creating a second bathroom, or installing a deck and patio for outdoor entertaining.
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, home improvement spending is up. The most popular project is a sparkling bathroom overhaul, followed by big-ticket kitchen and basement renovations. However, most projects do not deliver a good return on investment. The only exception is a screened-in porch, which can increase a home’s resale value by more than 30%.
While many people are busy working on their home improvements, it is important to remember to keep safety in mind. This is especially true if the project involves working with electricity or plumbing. It is also a good idea to hire professionals for major projects. This way, the work can be completed quickly and safely.
It is also a good idea to make sure that the contractors you hire are licensed and insured. You should avoid any contractor who refuses to provide a copy of their license. In addition, you should always read the fine print of any contract before signing it. If you notice any errors, contact the contractor immediately and request that they correct them.
Lastly, you should not be afraid to ask for references from past customers. This will help you get an idea of how satisfied previous clients were with the company’s work. It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the company. A reputable company will have no problem providing you with this information. If you do decide to use a home improvement service, be sure to select a company with a BBB A+ rating. You should also choose a company that has its name, address, and MHIC license number preprinted on the contract. This will ensure that you are not dealing with a fly-by-night company.