Happy 2017! Kickstart the new year with i love renovations’ January home maintenance checklist. From de-cluttering your space to protecting your home from the outdoor elements, our first checklist of the year is filled with fun and practical ways to beat those winter blues.
Clean and organize closets.
The start of a new year is the perfect time to sort through cluttered closets. Make room for new items you acquired over the holidays by removing clothing, books and other random objects you no longer use. A local charity would be happy to receive your donation.
Check roof and gutters for ice dams.
Icicles may look magical, but leaving them attached to your home may wreak havoc on your roof and create leaks. Ice dams prevent water from draining properly from your roof; in turn creating icicles. These icicles trap water under shingles and leak into your attic. Be proactive by removing icicles now to avoid a headache later.
Store holiday decorations properly.
After a busy holiday season, it may be tempting to gather décor around the home and bundle it into one giant pile to be dealt with next year. But the regret will be greater than the temptation when you’re spending hours trying to unravel and mend the festive mess. Store décor in an organized manner in a safe space.
Protect pipes from freezing.
If this hasn’t been tackled yet, now’s the time to insulate exposed outdoor pipes to avoid freezing.
Create space to exercise indoors.
Was getting in shape one of your New Year’s resolutions? The winter months can be the toughest season to stick to a workout regime. If bundling up and heading to the gym is laughable, and going for an icy five-kilometre run is just not in the cards, consider creating an indoor space that will encourage a daily fitness routine. Explore an unused nook in your home that may be perfect for yoga, or transform an empty room into your very own home gym. Your own indoor exercise oasis may be just what you need to conquer that 2017 resolution.
Boost lighting.
During the winter months, natural light can be hard to come by. Studies show your mood may be affected by how much light filters into your home. Encourage happy thoughts with ample lighting in every area of your home. Open curtains during the day, add extra lamps and fixtures to dark corners and light candles for soft lighting in the evening. For an added boost, white walls and bright decor will amplify light.
Plan remodeling projects for the year.
Travel from room to room and take note of any areas that will need attention in the upcoming year. A list will help prioritize the work and give you a sense of those items you feel are most pressing.
If you haven’t already set your goals for the new year, consider adding your home’s happiness to the list. We’re excited for what this new year will bring and look forward to creating many more amazing spaces for our valued clients. If a home reno is in your future, check out iloverenovations.ca for inspiration and give us a call at 902-488-5683. Happy New Year!