Prepare for the Summer With These 3 Home Improvement Projects

With kids home from school and jobs that have reduced summer hours, many families spend more time at home in the summer than at other times.  That means you want the house to be in top shape so you can enjoy it more. These three home improvement projects can ensure your home is ready to face the heat of summer with style and grace, so you can enjoy the time a little more.

1. Upgrade Your Air Conditioning Unit

Air conditioning is a must for many people. Not only does it keep temperatures down inside, but it also helps reduce humidity levels, which makes your house considerably more comfortable. A new energy-efficient AC unit is a great investment if your current one is older. It will also help you avoid having to schedule an emergency air conditioning repair Fort Myers FL in the middle of summer.

2. Install a Backyard Pool

Having a pool in the yard offers countless advantages for the entire family. For example, it provides an excellent opportunity to get in some exercise, or you can choose to just relax on the pool deck or play fun water-based games. It’s also a great way to beat the summer heat. While you can always choose to have a pool installed during the summer, this often makes a better off-season project. That gives you plenty of time to replant the surrounding area and get the yard back in order before you open it up.

3. Prepare Garden Beds

If you prefer to play in the soil instead of the water, consider adding a few garden beds to the year. You can even use raised beds or embrace container gardening if accessibility is an issue. Planning ahead gives you time to improve the soil with compost or other amendments so your summer plants can grow healthy and strong.

Projects like adding a pool, tuning up the AC unit and planning a garden can help you stay comfortable and engaged without having to leave the house this summer.…

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Top Roofing Shingles

When it comes to replacing your roof, you want to get the best for your money. Deciding on one type of shingle isn’t always easy though, and you’ll want to understand exactly what each type of shingle can do before choosing one. Here’s the most common types of shingles used today and what they can do for your home. Once you’ve decided the kind of roof material you want, you can contact roof repair St Louis County MO to get your roof replaced and boost the resale value of your house.

Asphalt Shingles

Probably the most popular shingle type in the United States, asphalt shingles are a big hit for a reason. They’re relatively affordable and are durable enough to last 15 to 40 years, depending on the weather conditions where you live. They are easy to install and present no hassle when it’s time to replace them.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are all about aesthetic, as they can really spruce up the appearance of a house. Cedar is the most common wood used for these shingles, though cypress, pine and redwood can also be used. You can also get a wood shake, which is a hand-crafted roofing style that creates a more jagged, rugged appearance.

Slate Shingles

These shingles are made entirely from stone. Slate shingles create a classy, sophisticated look on any house. While on the more expensive side of shingle material costs, slate shingles have great durability. They can last up to 100 years and are fireproof.

Metal Shingles

Metal is a popular material for those who live in harsh weather conditions. Metal shingles are great for places that receive a lot of snow, as they allow the snow to slide off and prevent excess weight on the roof. These kinds of shingles can last 75 years, meaning you probably won’t have to replace them again in your lifetime.…

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3 Key Landscape Upgrades To Make When Selling a Home

Are you looking to give your home a quick landscaping update prior to selling? Smart sellers know that good landscaping catches the attention of prospective buyers and drives up the value of your property. Here are three key landscape upgrades you should make before your house goes on the market.

1. Remove Tree Stumps

Big projects tend to scare away potential buyers, especially big projects in the yard. If you have any unsightly tree stumps in your yard that you’ve neglected to remove, you need to get the job done prior to selling so that buyers don’t see this as something they’ll need to do themselves. Contact the experts in tree stump removal Orlando FL to get rid of these unappealing features and improve the overall appearance of your yard.

2. Improve the Lawn

Your lawn likely takes up the most real estate in your yard, which is why it needs to be in excellent shape when you go to sell. When selling in the warmer months, keep the grass mowed and take the extra step of trimming the edges. If you’re selling in the colder seasons, make sure the lawn is free from debris like twigs or leaves. Buyers appreciate a “trophy lawn,” and it’s something they’ll pay more for.

3. Add Colorful Touches

Color makes a yard more inviting, and it’s easy to add color with some flowers. Place some potted plants near your front entry. Brightly colored annuals are recommended since they’re easy to maintain and they pack a visual punch. Arranging the flowerpots near your entry turns it into a charming focal point that draws in buyers.

Your home’s landscaping has the potential to be a value-adding selling feature. Follow these tips to give your yard a makeover that helps get your property sold for the price you want.…

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