Your home is aging. Eventually, it will be out of date no matter when it was originally constructed. However, a few home improvement projects will help your house stand the test of time by implementing elements that will cater to changing technology and trends.
Construction Considerations
Codes, standards and requirements are placed on the construction of new homes to make sure they are energy efficient and up-to-date. You can take a cue from new homes by applying these standards to your next renovation project. The website of the town in which you live is a great resource for learning about code requirements. Go online to discover what practices are being used and attempt to exceed them. For example, new homes are required to use double panes rather than single-pane windows. If you’re replacing your old windows, go above and beyond the current trend by getting Energy Star certified models and ensuring they are properly installed.
‘Smart’ Features
Ensure that your home is prepared for the future by adding smart technologies that make your life convenient. There are several products that will help you create an up-to-date home, including:
Home Automation: Home automation systems allow you to control appliances from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Plug the item into the appliance module in order to have remote control. For example, you may apply the technology to lamps so that you can turn lights on and off when you’re not in the room or are out of the house.
Programmable Thermostats: These devices let you pre-program settings into your home’s heating system so that you spend less energy to warm or cool your house. Make the most of programmable thermostats by keeping the temperature consistent. Avoid overriding the settings you created.
Home Security Systems: Protect your home and your family with automated home alarm monitoring. These state-of-the-art systems come with options that include remote monitoring via your smartphone, motion sensing and video surveillance. You can also choose a control panel that utilizes a touch screen.
Universal Design
Add features in your home that accommodate a variety of residents, whether they are kids or aging parents. Most retirees don’t want to leave their current home, but some have to because it doesn’t fit their needs. Prepare for the future by widening the traffic paths of your home, ensuring the walls can support grab bars, and installing easy-to-access baths and showers. Even if you don’t foresee needing these things, an aging parent or disabled relative could end up living with you at some point. Furthermore, having universal design features in the home when you sell it may allow you to increase the asking price.
Future Electronic Wiring
Add wiring, soffits and conduits that can be used for technology you may install down the road. Consider outlets for televisions, Internet modems and more so that setting up your appliances will be easy in the future. Homes are using an increased amount of technological devices, so older homes will need upgrades to accommodate them. Look for outlets that not only work for traditional plugs, but also have a USB port. This will allow you to plug your phone or tablet directly into the wall without the use of a convertor.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models that will not only decrease your consumption, but also last longer. Choose Energy Star-approved appliances that are of good quality so that they require less maintenance. Consider trading your old water heater for a tankless version, which heats water on demand.
Support these efficient appliances by ensuring that your home is airtight. You don’t want to be losing heat from a leaky home, as it can negate the savings you would have generated from owning energy-efficient products. Choose insulation that will increase thermal resistance and install it throughout the house. Pay special attention to the attic, basement and exterior walls since these areas are the most prone to leakage.
Eco-Friendly Materials
More and more homeowners are choosing to use materials that are sustainable. Be sure your house stays on top of these trends by using some of these materials yourself. For example, use bamboo or cork in your next flooring remodel or purchase formaldehyde-free kitchen cabinets. These things improve the health quality of your home as they don’t contain harmful chemicals and are better for the environment. Eco-friendly standards are only increasing in home design, so make sure your house is future-proof.
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