There are endless possibilities for elevating your living space when it comes to luxury home improvement. Whether you’re creating the ultimate dream kitchen or transforming your backyard into an oasis, the results must exude grandeur, modernity, and high value. But, as you embark on your journey, it’s important to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve.
That is where a luxury home improvement checklist comes in handy. It serves as a guide to help you enhance every aspect of your home with the utmost attention to detail. This article will discuss what you should include in your luxury home improvement checklist.
Pump Your Septic System Regularly
A 2017 United States Environmental Protection Agency report revealed that about 21,718,000 American households use a septic system. This system is responsible for treating and disposing of household waste and wastewater. However, unlike the public sewer system, septic tanks get full and must be pumped out regularly.
As a luxury homeowner, regularly pumping your septic system can significantly improve your home’s value and comfort. It can significantly reduce clogging and backed-up sewers. Additionally, it can prevent slow-running drains and foul odors from your drains.
Regular septic pumping ensures the tank doesn’t overflow, leading to costly repairs or replacement. This measure also decreases potential health hazards from bacteria and viruses. The last thing you want is for your magnificent home to produce a smell that gives slum vibes. As such, it is a crucial item to have on your luxury home improvement checklist.
The frequency of pumping your septic system depends on the size of your tank and the number of people living in your home. But generally, the EPA recommended pumping it every 3-5 years. According to Forbes, this might cost you between $250 to $600.
Have the Contact Info Saved for a Local Plumber
One attribute that sets affluence apart is access to vital services fast. For instance, you may encounter various plumbing issues when working on home improvements. These include busted pipes, clogged drains, and leaky faucets. Such issues may jeopardize your improvement efforts, leading to more costly damages and repairs. Therefore, to avoid such inconveniences, it is essential to have a local plumber’s contact information on the speed dial
A plumber on speed dial also ensures swift emergency response. It can save you significant money and time by addressing plumbing issues promptly. Additionally, local plumbing repairs also minimize the extent of damages, making the repairs more manageable to handle.
Furthermore, having a plumber’s contact information saved offers you a channel for consultation. Plumbers have extensive knowledge in the field and can recommend durable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly options. You can consult them on the best materials and fixtures for your luxury home improvement.
It is also advisable to have a plumber inspect your plumbing system before and after any home improvement project. This measure ensures that all plumbing connections are intact and functioning correctly. It also helps identify potential issues before they escalate into more significant problems.
Speak With an Electrician About Your Home’s Safety
Luxury home improvement often involves extensive electrical work. If not handled correctly, these upgrades could lead to various hazards, the most common being electrical fires. The Electrical Safety Foundation reports about 51,000 fires yearly in the US. According to the organization, the fires resulted in $1.3 billion in property damage, 500 deaths, and over 1,400 injuries.
Therefore, speaking with an electrician before commencing any home improvements requiring electrical work is crucial. They can guide you through safety measures and recommend better wiring options for your house. For instance, they can recommend installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to protect your home from electrical hazards.
Moreover, these local electrical contractors help you assess the power requirements of any new fixture or appliance. Such measures ensure your home’s electrical system can handle new demands. The experts can also identify safety hazards such as outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and improper grounding.
Learn About How to Maintain a Healthy Roof
Ocassionally luxury home improvement may involve upgrading your roof. You might undertake such a project, especially when adding more rooms or converting an attic into a living space. However, with a new roof installed, you must learn maintenance tips to keep it in excellent condition. Such measures will prolong its lifespan by preventing damage.
The first step of roof maintenance is understanding the materials used for your house. Each roofing material requires specific maintenance measures. For instance, regularly inspect asphalt roofs for missing, damaged, or curled shingles. Metal roofs are prone to rusting, requiring regular cleaning and treatment with rust inhibitors. Tile roofing may need resealing of cracked or broken tiles.
Gutters also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy roof. Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof by creating pools of water that eventually leak in. Trimming trees near your house can also prevent branches from falling on the roof during storms or causing damage to shingles. It’s important to regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice any issues, it is best to contact a professional roofing contractor who can properly assess and address the problem. A home with a beaten roof doesn’t portray any iota of grandness.
Consider Installing a Metal Roof
When contemplating upgrading your roof, consider installing a metal roof. Did you know metal roofs boost home value by 6%? Additionally, metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and longevity. According to Forbes Home, they have a 50-100 years or more lifespan with proper maintenance.
Metal roofing materials come in various types, such as steel, aluminum, and copper. Each type has its unique benefits. Steel is the most commonly used material due to its affordability and strength. Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it a good choice for coastal areas. Copper is the most expensive option, but it looks stunning and lasts over 100 years.
Metal roofs are also beneficial for the environment as they are often made of recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their lifespan. They also reflect heat, reducing energy costs and keeping your home cooler in the summer. Additionally, they are fire-resistant, making them ideal for areas prone to wildfires
Contact a metal roofing service contractor to discuss your options and see if a metal roof is the right choice for your home. Remember, proper installation by a professional is crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of your metal roof. Also, choose the material that fits your budget and home needs.
Assess the Status of Your Furnace
A furnace is an essential addition to your home if you live in a relatively cold climate. It keeps you warm and comfortable during the winter months. However, furnaces can break down over time. Therefore, you must assess its status when conducting your luxury home improvement project.
Assessing your furnace begins by looking at its age. According to Customer Reports, most furnaces have 15-20 years of lifespan. Therefore, it may be time to consider a replacement if your furnace is reaching this age or has surpassed it.
Another aspect to assess regarding your furnace is your energy bills. As furnaces age, they become less efficient and may require more energy to function properly. Therefore, if you notice a significant increase in your energy bills during the winter months, it could be a sign that your furnace is no longer functioning efficiently.
Moreover, if you notice uneven heating, it may be a sign that your furnace is struggling to keep up with the demand. Various factors, such as a clogged filter or faulty ductwork, can cause this failure. Generally, such issues indicate that you need furnace repair and maintenance services.
Build a Pool in Your Backyard
Building a pool in your backyard is one of the most essential improvements you can make to your home. Such a move will add a sense of luxury and significantly increase your home’s value. However, before embarking on this project, there are several factors you need to consider.
First and foremost, think about the size and shape of the pool that works best for your backyard space. Look at different options, such as rectangular or round pools, and choose one that fits your backyard’s dimensions and complements your home’s design.
Another crucial factor is the pool’s intended use. Do you want a pool for exercise, relaxation, or entertaining guests? This decision will determine the depth and features of the pool, such as diving boards or water slides.
Once you have settled on these features and received the necessary permits, you can begin construction. According to Home Guide, local pool builders will charge you between $28,000 and $55,000 for an inground pool. On the other hand, an above-the-ground pool will go for about $1,800 – $5,000. HGTV reports that adding a pool to your home can boost your home value by 5-8%, which could be enough to cross the fine line between a conventional home and a lavish home.
Install Concrete Pavers
Another excellent backyard improvement is installing concrete pavers. Concrete pavers are significantly more durable, with a lifespan of over 50 years, according to NSF (National Sanitation Foundation). They are also highly versatile, making them the perfect addition to your luxury home improvement.
With concrete pavers, you have numerous options, such as brick, cobblestone, or granite. They come in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to create unique patterns that suit your style. Furthermore, concrete pavers are relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice among homeowners.
In terms of cost, concrete pavers can range from $2.35 to $10.35 per square foot, according to Houzz. On the other hand, the installation costs will also vary based on factors such as labor rates and the concrete paver company you choose. However, on average, you can expect to part way with $8.50 to $21 per square foot.
Update Your Landscaping
Can you imagine a home in an affluent neighborhood with poor landscaping? Updating your landscaping is among the most impactful changes you can make with your luxury home improvements. An attractive landscape can transform your backyard into a tranquil oasis, making it an ideal place to relax and entertain. Additionally, a well-maintained landscape will add significant value to your home.
There are various elements to updating your landscaping. Consider incorporating plants, trees, and flowers that will thrive in your local climate. This measure will give your landscape a natural and lush appearance. You can also add outdoor features such as a fire pit or a water feature to create an inviting ambiance. Another option is to add hardscaping elements, such as walkways and patios, using concrete pavers.
Incorporating lighting in your landscaping construction can also make a significant difference. Different lights will add to the aesthetic appeal and enhance safety and security around your property. Consider using solar-powered lights as an eco-friendly option.
Remove Any Potentially Dangerous Trees on Your Property
Removing any potentially dangerous trees on your property is a crucial safety measure you should consider as part of your luxury home improvements. Determining which trees pose a risk may be challenging, but some signs can help you identify them. For instance, large cracks or splits in the trunk or branches, leaning trees, and visible roots are all indicators of potential danger.
Removing these trees can prevent accidents and damage to your home or other structures on your property. It also allows you to replant new trees that are more suitable for the area, ultimately improving the overall appearance of your landscape. You can source such tree services locally or consult a professional to assess the condition of your trees.
Investing in luxury home improvements can significantly enhance the value and appeal of your property. By focusing on essential areas such as landscaping, outdoor features, and tree removal, you can create a beautiful and functional living space that you will enjoy for years to come. Remember to research and plan carefully before starting any renovation project. Once you check all the boxes, you can rest assured of achieving your desired results within your budget and timeline.
