Summer is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about what renovation projects you want to complete on your home. Summer is the perfect time to freshen things up while adding some property value as well, and there have never been more options to choose from. In case you’re thinking about pursuing a renovation project or two this summer, let’s take a look at a few that have garnered the stamp of approval from contractors nationwide in 2021.
1. Modernized Bathrooms
Replace your old tile walls and boring ceramic sinks with something more aligned with the times this summer. One style we like right now is the industrial bathroom. Featuring stainless steel sinks and an industrial color scheme, this aesthetic is really popular right now and features many different materials to choose from. Gold fixtures, granite countertops, and rubber flooring are just a few customizations homeowners like, but there are plenty more to choose from.
2. Shiplap Walls
Wallpaper is out, and paneling is in. Shiplap, specifically, is what many are gravitating to right now. This type of paneling features horizontal planks stacked on top of each other, resembling the exterior of wooden boats from the old days. This style of wall paneling is growing ever popular as the removal of wallpaper in favor of unique, alternative options becomes more commonplace.
3. Extra Insulation
Not every renovation project has to be visible, some of them can add value without any visual effect, such as insulation. Better-quality insulation improves your energy efficiency and lowers the carbon footprint of the home as well as your energy bills. This is attractive to future buyers regardless if it has no impact on curb appeal. One type of insulation you’ll want to consider is below grade insulation. This insulation is used to insulate the slab and perimeter of your foundation. A whopping 20% of all heat loss is known to come from the foundation and its perimeter, so below grade insulation can be a major game-changer for the overall energy efficiency of your home.
4. Solar Panels
There’s no better time to get solar panels installed than summer. By installing solar panels on your roof or in another place where they can soak up plenty of sun, you could come close to eliminating your annual electricity bill, depending on how much sun you get. Even in less sunny areas, solar panels save the average home $1,500 a year on energy bills. You should be able to get them financed by a bank and you can even get tax credits on many areas for installing solar panels on your property. You could opt for the traditional, large panels which are very noticeable and often become a defining feature of the home. Some homeowners prefer a more discreet implementation of solar panels, though, like solar panel shingles. These shingles are typically interwoven with regular shingles, providing all the sun-soaking ability of larger panels but with a more sleek and subtle visual presentation.
Contractors Love these Renovation Projects for You this Summer
Nobody knows market trends and the hottest styles like contractors. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency with a high-upside install like below grade insulation or solar panels, or you want a style boost instead, these trends are a great place to start. If you’re looking for a fresh new style to enjoy this summer, industrial-themed bathrooms and shiplap walls could be just the upgrade you’re looking for. These modern, contemporary renovation projects are sure to generate a boost in property value while impressing your guests as well. However, we think any combination of these 4 projects is a great investment.
Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction tat save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.
