New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home (And Home Maintenance)

A new year means a fresh start, and what better way to feel rejuvenated than giving your home some care and upgrades. Your home is where you spend most of your time, so it’s important it brings you joy while making you feel comfortable and secure. If your home needs a little TLC, we’ve put together a New Year’s resolution list for your home as well as some home maintenance tasks to complete so your home is as safe and comfortable as possible.

1. Decrease Your Energy Use 

A great resolution is reducing your energy use at home. Turn off unnecessary lights and use natural light as much as possible. Take shorter showers and turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth, shaving and washing your hands. Using less energy will contribute to a healthier planet while also cutting down your energy bills. Another way to improve your energy use is to replace your windows, if necessary. If your current windows are drafty or you constantly notice condensation, replacing them with energy-efficient windows will make a world of difference. 

2. Check to See If Windows and Doors are Properly Sealed

On the topic of energy savings, it’s also important to make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed. Cracks around your windows and doors can cause heat to escape your house. This results in wasted energy and skyrocketing energy bills. If you notice cracks, add weather stripping where needed, and if that doesn’t help, it could mean that it’s time to upgrade. 

3. Declutter and Organize Your Space

Getting rid of clutter is an excellent way to feel better about your home, and could there be anything better than starting the new year with a clean and organized space? Decluttering can be overwhelming, but there are tips you can use to make the process easier. Tackle one space at a time; toss or donate anything you don’t use or wear; and increase storage where you can. Once you’ve decluttered, you can organize your home and store your possessions, making your home look as tidy as possible. 

4. Make Your House a Home

Many of us are spending more time at home than ever before. It’s important that your space is one you love to spend time in and is comfortable. Focus on the rooms where you spend most of your time- perhaps the kitchen, living room and office space. Adding warmth through pieces like rugs, throw cushions, candles and art can go a long way in making your house feel like a home. 

5. Do a Safety Check

Start the year off right with a safety check to ensure you and your family will be safe and secure in your home. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if necessary; make sure your fire extinguisher is working and that there’s one in the kitchen and on every floor of your home; establish an escape route in the event of a fire; and don’t overload your outlets. 

Each new year is brimming with possibilities! Use this year to make your house a home and do important maintenance you’ve been holding off on.