Essential Home Improvements for 20-Year-Old Homes

Approximately 80% of U.S. homes are 20 years old or older. Many of these properties need renovations, remodeling, and other improvements. You should consider these home improvement projects if you have an older home.

Updating the Kitchen and Bathrooms

Remodeling your kitchen and bathrooms is a fantastic way to boost the resale value of a home. The right updates can also make these spaces easier to use. You can make these spaces much more efficient by updating appliances and fixtures.

These are some of the most frequently-used spaces in any home, which is why improvements tend to provide an excellent return on investment. Certain upgrades can also save you time. A remodel is a great opportunity to add storage and maximize the space that you have.

Since the cost of kitchen and bathroom renovations can vary, it’s best to set a budget before you get started. Whether you fully remodel these spaces or make a few updates, you’ll get a lot of mileage out of these improvements.

Improving Your Home’s Insulation

Unfortunately, many older homes are poorly insulated. A lack of insulation can be expensive, especially during extreme weather conditions. Investing in better insulation could ultimately save you money on heating and cooling.

Hot air rises, which is why insulating your attic can help keep heat from escaping your home. Insulating your pipes is another great way to reduce heat loss. You may also want to consider sealing or replacing your HVAC ducts so that you can improve the efficiency of your home’s HVAC system.

Repairing the Roof

The average roof can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years. If you have an older home, your roof may be due for a replacement. Even if you don’t need to install a new roof, your roof may need repairs.

If your roof is ten years old or older, it should be inspected once per year. You should also schedule annual inspections if you have a lot of trees on your property. Regular repairs can help you avoid costly problems and can even your roof’s lifespan.

Trimming your trees and cleaning your gutters can keep your roof in great shape for longer. With that said, even a well-maintained roof will need repairs from time to time. Make sure you’re giving your roof the level of care that needs.

Clean Your Sewer Line

Regular sewer maintenance can keep your drains and plumbing in good shape. Cleaning your sewer lines can prevent clogs and help you avoid costly repairs. If you live in an older home, you should try to have your sewer line cleaned every two years.

You can access your home’s sewer line by searching for the cleanout, which is a capped pipe. It can typically be found at the front, rear, or side of a home and maybe near bushes. Properties built in 1978 or earlier won’t necessarily have a sewer cleanout.

While it’s possible to clean your sewer line on your own, you may want to consider professional maintenance services. If you’re dealing with regular drain clogs or have noticed strange gurgling noises coming from your pipes, you should schedule maintenance right away.

Install New Windows

How old are your home’s windows? Windows don’t last forever, and if your home’s windows are more than 20 years old, they may need to be replaced. Older windows are also prone to problems, such as air and water leaks.

Not only can new windows enhance your home’s curb appeal, but they offer many other benefits as well. Newer windows provide more security and better insulation. Modern windows can also help keep dust and other allergens out of your home.

Approximately 85% of U.S. homeowners have a homeowner’s insurance policy. While insurance provides valuable protection, improvements and maintenance can also keep your home safe. Make sure you’re giving your home the care it needs.