March marks both the beginning of stay-at-home orders for thousands of Americans and the first day of spring. If you’re in quarantine, there isn’t a better time to tackle home projects. Your home should be a safe and welcoming place, but that’s not always the case. Long working hours, weekend commitments, and time constraints can take away from your enjoyment of your home.
To upgrade your quality of life, first, improve your home. Not only may you feel more joy and accomplishment, but some projects can also provide a return on your investment. In this guide, you’ll get a variety of home improvement ideas that can add instant happiness to your home. While you’re enjoying your serene space, you can focus less on the outbreak and more on what’s important to you.
According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 74% of homeowners have a desire to be in their homes after a project. If you’re not in lockdown, you may be soon, which will mean spending more time at home than you ever have. Working, eating, and playing at home can take a toll, so plan and make it a happier space now.
The government continues to urge everyone to stay home whenever possible. According to the New York Times, over thirty statewide orders are in place to keep Americans homebound. You can take a look at your own state government’s website for up-to-date information.
If you think it’s time to tackle a substantial home project, hardware stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot are open in most states. These stores are taking special social distancing and cleaning measures to keep you safe.
Completing a home improvement project will likely leave you with some extra waste and debris. Your standard trash service may not pick up this additional trash and debris after you finish your project, so you may want to consider renting a dumpster. Our trash removal experts can guide you through choosing the right container for your home project.
Create a home office oasis to begin your home cleanup. Add a candle, houseplant, or picture frame to customize your space. If your home doesn’t have a dedicated office room, get creative! Repurpose a large closet or garage by adding paint and lighting.
If you’re self-employed, there’s an extra perk that comes with having a home office. The Internal Revenue Service states, “If you use part of your home for business, you may be able to deduct expenses for the business use of your home.” Be sure to visit the IRS website to see if you qualify.
When a weather emergency strikes, all of your family members may not be at home. It’s important to have a plan in place so that your loved ones know what to do and expect. Together you can create the plan during a community or family meeting. Make sure to add escape routes to your plan. Each family member should know the easiest way to reach the safe room or the most secure room in your home.
For businesses, it’s especially important to create an emergency plan. A comprehensive plan can be the key to ensuring your business stays open after the tornado passes. Developing an employee training plan and practicing tornado drills are ways to keep your staff confident in an emergency.
Energize your space with a coat of fresh paint. You probably have a gallon of paint stowed away; use it to paint an entire room or an accent wall. Draw inspiration from nature or from your favorite bucket-list destination when choosing colors.
Experts from the World Health Organization found that engaging with the arts is beneficial for both physical and mental health. Fine arts such as painting can lower your stress and improve your overall health, which can be exceptionally helpful during a stressful pandemic.
“Bringing art into people’s lives through activities including dancing, singing, and going to museums and concerts offers an added dimension to how we can improve physical and mental health.” —Dr. Piroska Östlin, WHO Regional Director for Europe
Add instant flair to your home by adopting a houseplant (or three). It’s a cost-effective way to add nature to your space. If you want a bigger challenge, you can start an indoor or outdoor garden. Growing edible plants, such as microgreens, can save you a trip to the grocery store. Plants may also purify indoor air. A 1989 NASA study found that houseplants can remove harmful cancer-causing compounds.
Breathe new life into your home with a deep decluttering ritual. If things outside of your home seem out of control, keep them calm inside. Donate your unused items to friends and family or to your local charity, and only keep things you love and use.
Are you still wondering what to keep or toss? Try this tip:
“The best way to choose what to keep and what to throw away is to take each item in one’s hand and ask: ‘Does this spark joy?’ If it does, keep it. If not, dispose of it.” —Marie Kondo, author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
If you’re ambitious enough to declutter your entire home, you may want to rent a residential dumpster. We can guide you on the cost and size of your dumpster without hassle.
A gallery wall is a collection of photos, personal mementos, and artwork that inspires you and your loved ones. Gallery walls can be inexpensive. With just a few supplies you may already have, you can create a gallery wall to add interest to your space. Use textiles, children’s artwork, and old frames to create a wall space that’s uniquely yours.
You know about painting your walls, but what about appliances? It’s the ultimate do-it-yourself hack for a high-end look. For smaller appliances such as microwaves, you can order spray paint epoxy. To update your entire kitchen, you can find liquid paint that creates the look of stainless steel. This type of paint is readily available online and in stores.
As you work from home, you may have more free time thanks to a nonexistent commute. If you want to use that time to take on a bigger remodeling project, consider the items on this list. These projects can increase your happiness and add value to your home. Keep in mind that you may need help from professional contractors for significant tasks, such as debris and equipment removal.
In response to the pandemic, Lowe’s CEO, Martin Ellis, says, “You have my commitment that Lowe’s will continue to do our part to serve you as we work together to overcome these trying times.” With many stores implementing strict coronavirus prevention measures, it may still be possible to pick up remodeling essentials or request home installation. Take a look at these
You can hire a landscaping business—considered essential during the pandemic—or opt to take on the challenge of transforming your yard yourself. Spending time outdoors can improve overall health and wellness, says the Center for Disease Control. It promotes mental health and stress reduction.
If you don’t have a large garden or yard, container gardening is a space-efficient way to plant flowers or food. When choosing your plants, you may find that seeds are a less-expensive choice than seedlings. Seeds take longer to sprout but can be worth the wait. Planting now can provide a significant return on investment later.
“Healthy, mature trees add an average of 10% to a property’s value.” —United State Department of Agriculture Forest Service
As gyms close their doors, more people are looking for alternative ways to exercise, and for good reason. To boost your immune system, your first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle, say Harvard experts.
If you have space, creating a home gym may be the best investment. Use a bonus room, or carve out space in a larger area. Decorative touches such as chevron wall stripes and updated lighting can breathe new life into your exercise space and routine.
Home is where the heart is, and your front door is where your home begins. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry found that a new front door can increase your desire to be home by 79%. Some experts suggest adding glass panels around your door to bring the outdoors inside.
Complete the project by replacing your windows. Not only do new windows improve your home’s appearance, but they also increase functionality. Most new windows are more secure and insulated than older models, which can increase your home’s energy-efficiency, keeping your body comfortable and your utility bills lower.
“Anticipate a return investment of at least 70% on new windows.” —Angie’s List
It’s the little things that can add up to make a big difference. Replacing that bathroom light bulb that you’ve put off for six months or installing crown moldings can bring new life into your space. Here are some more ideas:
● Clean your vents. Use a vacuum attachment for small amounts of dust, or hire a contractor to deep-clean your air ducts.
● Add a pop of color with wallpaper.
● Paint your cabinets, walls, and appliances for a new kitchen feel.
● Add lighting. Accent fixtures, such as chandeliers, add glamour to your space.
The best way to streamline any project is to figure out how to make cleanup quick and affordable. Discount Dumpster connects you with a professional who is knowledgeable about waste removal for your home project. Did you know most construction debris isn’t recyclable? We can guide you to choose the right container for your project, so you can get back to creating.
“Home Improvement Projects That Make Homeowners Happier.” Realtor Magazine. National Association of Realtors. 3 October 2019. www.magazine.realtor/daily-news/2019/10/03/home-improvement-projects-that-make-homeowners-happier
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