10 Money-Saving Contractor Projects
by Kim Kinrade
A home can be rated high when it comes to structure and durability, but is it costing you money on a regular basis? This can include energy and missed maintenance that can cause problems down the road. And these problems can turn into expensive renovation projects.
1. Insulating
One of the quickest and easiest ways to save money is to put more insulation in the attic. Whether you live in a hot or cold climate adding fiberglass batts or blown insulation will decrease energy bills and add to the resale of your home. While you're at it check the walls and especially the walls between the garage and the house because many garages, although insulated, will never be the same temperature of the home and can draw out energy.
The energy-efficiency of the wall can be tested by drilling a small test hole through the drywall between the studs. If there is no insulation, then use a door knob bit to drill 3” holes at the top of the walls between all the studs along the entire the wall separating the house from the garage. Then blow in cellulose insulation. This is a cheap way to get long-lasting energy relief and you don't need a renovation contractor to do this for you.
2. Weather Stripping
Many home energy articles on saving money mention that there are enough leaks in a home that, if all put together, would be the size of a basketball. That is a lot of energy leaving the home, especially in very cold areas. Weatherstripping around the doors and caulking windows will get you some relief from a drafty home Especially go around the window moldings because expansion and contraction over the years can shrink wooden surfaces leaving leaks. Test them by having a partner direct a fan against the windows and doors from the outside.
3. Changing Lights
Incandescent lights and old fluorescent ones suck power. Go to a home store and check out the energy saving options. Light fixtures are not expensive and the new compact fluorescent (CFL) and light emitting diode lights (LED) can save a lot of power and recoup the change-out cost in a short time.
4. Hire Qualified Professionals
For projects like decks and anything that requires planning and building hire a licensed professional. Uncle Bobby can fix things but a professional might save you money in the long run by building it right. He also might save a family feud.
5. Kitchen Cabinets
Look at cutting down the amount of cabinets in favor of a portable chopping block or other table-like convenience. These can fill the space and function for ¼ of the cost. They also add a unique flavor to the kitchen. Many construction plans can be altered to accommodate this change.
6. Reglazing the Tub
Many people like their old bathtub, especially those who have one of the old claw tubs. Call a reglazing contractor and get estimates. This goes for porcelain sinks and other appliances that will add glamor to your home and save the cost of a complete bathroom renovation.
7. Off-Peak Power System
Many power companies offer great discounts on power used between 11:00pm and 7:00am, and weekends. By installing an off-peak system you can take advantage of this program. The heating units contain fine porcelain bricks which are heated by an element during off peak hours. In the morning the power switches off and a small fan pushes the heat from the bricks to the home. The hot water tank can also be hooked up to this system.
8. Solar Hot Water System
The sun can aid in heating water and this can drastically cut your energy bill. Roof-mounted panels containing vacuum tubes collect heat from the sun and transfer it to glycol, or anti-freeze. This liquid is pumped a transfer tank where the heat is transferred to ground water sitting in coiled copper pipes. This water comes in at 40 degrees Fahrenheit and leaves for the main hot water tank at upwards of 140 degrees, or shower temperature. Even in the winter there is some heat to bring the temperature up.
9. Solar Lighting
At night we rarely need more than a glow to help navigate a dark house. Solar lights charge batteries during the day that power LED lights under kitchen counters and along passageways. An electrical contractor can install these. Those wanting frugality will love these lights.
10. Installing a Pellet Stove
Pellets are waste wood that are transferred into a burning chamber in a wood stove-like heater. These come in 50 pound bags and are very economical for heating. Fans keep the heat going and these can be charged using solar batteries.
For more information contact Need Contractor
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