Reducing the time and money spent on keeping up your home can be as easy as changing a few light fixtures or adding some extra insulation. And though these fixes might not be as flashy as, say, a complete kitchen renovation, they will save you time and money in the long run. So here are five low-maintenance upgrades to consider for your home.
Invest in quality materials for flooring
For your home, cheap materials might seem like an excellent way to save some money upfront. But in the long run, quality materials will stand the test of time and cost you less in repairs and replacements. Here are some of the best materials for every home:
Hardwood
Hardwood is the way to go if you want something rustic and low-maintenance. Hardwood floors are easy to clean and don’t show wear and tear as quickly as other materials. However, it can also be costly. People spend $5,000 on average for hardwood floors. It can cost between $5 to $15 per square foot.
Tile
Tile is another material that’s easy to care for. It’s stain-resistant and can be cleaned with simple mopping. Tile is also a good choice for homes with pets because it’s not as susceptible to scratches as hardwood. However, tile can be slippery, so it might not be the best choice if you have young children or elderly family members living with you. It’s a cheap option, costing around $3 per square foot.
Linoleum
In recent years, linoleum has been returning as a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring material. It’s made from natural materials like cork, linseed oil, and wood flour. Linoleum is easy to clean and maintain. It’s also one of the more affordable flooring options, costing between $2 and $5 per square foot.
Consider your climate
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, make sure that your home is properly insulated and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Sealing up any gaps or cracks where heat or air could escape will save you money on energy bills and make your home more comfortable year-round. And if you live in an area prone to flooding or other natural disasters, take steps to protect your home accordingly.
Get regular maintenance done.
You wouldn’t wait until your car breaks down to take it in for an oil change, so don’t wait until there’s a problem with your furnace to have it serviced. Regular tune-ups for all of the major systems in your home—HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.—will help them run more efficiently and prevent small problems from turning into big (and expensive) ones.
Simplify your landscaping
Having a beautiful yard is excellent—but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your free time (or your back). If maintaining a perfect lawn is more trouble than worth it, consider switching to artificial turf or investing in drought-resistant plants requiring less water and care. You might also want to rethink that complicated garden layout in favor of something simpler (and easier to take care of). Additionally, consider these additions for your lawn.
Install a Wall
Walls are essential if you live on a busy street where traffic noise might be an issue. A wall can also provide some privacy from nosy neighbors or act as a wind barrier. If you have a small yard, a wall can make it feel more cozy and intimate. If you want the best option, consider installing concrete walls on your property. This wall has various benefits, such as better privacy, property crime prevention, and increased lot value. It’s an essential addition to your home and one that’s fairly cheap when compared to other options.
Put in Some Gravel
Gravel is an easy way to add texture and interest to your landscaping. It’s also a low-maintenance option that doesn’t require much upkeep. You can use gravel for pathways, around trees, or as part of a rock garden. It’s inexpensive to make your landscaping more interesting and can be found at most home improvement stores.
Choose low-maintenance finishes
When it comes to things like countertops, flooring, and paint, there are now more low-maintenance options than ever before. Whether you’re looking for durable finishes that can withstand kids and pets or easy-to-clean surfaces that will look good for years to come, doing some upfront research can save you a lot of hassle (and money) down the road.
Making simple changes around your home can save you time and money in the long run—and who doesn’t want that? From investing in quality materials to regular maintenance, there are many ways to reduce the time and effort spent on keeping up your house. So why not make a few low-maintenance upgrades today? Your future self will thank you!
