6 Easy Home Improvement Projects with Big Benefits

Apr 18, 2019 1 min read

When you’re a homeowner, there’s always something to do, fix or replace. Before you kick off your next home improvement project, think about ways you could use it as an opportunity to make your home safer or improve its energy efficiency. These six easy home improvement projects are the perfect place to start.

1. Plant Shade Trees

Good for: Energy efficiency

Landscaping is a great way to boost curb appeal. Trees and shrubs can also offer protection from weather and improve your home’s energy efficiency. For example, outdoor air conditioning units exposed to direct sunlight work harder and use more energy. Planting shade trees around them keeps units protected and in better working condition.

2. Install Weather-Resistant Roof Shingles

Good for: Cost savings

Because weather-resistant shingles can decrease or eliminate roof damage caused by extreme heat, high winds or excessive rain or snow, they may be eligible for a homeowners insurance premium discount. This is an easy home project that will outweigh the costs in the long-run.

3. Replace Old Appliances with ENERGY STAR® Appliances

Good for: Energy efficiency and cost savings

Certified ENERGY STAR® products like furnaces, water heaters and dryers help you increase your home’s energy efficiency and reduce costs. Sometimes, they also come with the added bonus of rebates, tax credits or insurance discounts.

4. Plant Bushes Under Windows

Good for: Safety

Attractive, low-growing, thorny bushes placed near easily accessible windows deter would-be thieves. They also offer a nice pop of greenery to your home.

5. Opt for Reflective Roof Shingles

Good for: Energy efficiency

Adding reflective roof shingles is another easy home improvement project that can help bolster energy efficiency and slash your electric bill. In fact, light-colored or reflective shingles can reduce your roof temperature by 50 to 60 degrees. Come summer, you’ll see more affordable energy bills.

6. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Good for: Cost savings and protection

Most traditional homeowner’s policies don’t cover losses due to mechanical failure or electrical breakdown of appliances. Add Residential Equipment Breakdown coverage for your television, water heater, computer and more. And make sure to document your new purchases. Taking photos and maintaining a list of make, model, purchase date and price go a long way if you need to make a claim. 

Contact your Farm Bureau agent to make sure you have the right coverage at the right time.

 

Want to learn more?

Contact a local FBFS agent or advisor for answers personalized to you.