13 Quick Renovation Projects You Can Squeeze In Before the Holidays

You don’t have much time to update your home before guests arrive for the holidays, but you might wonder what you could get done in that time. Thankfully, there are plenty of renovation projects you can complete in roughly one week or less. Here are some you can use to impress your guests.

1. Add a Skylight

A skylight lets an enormous amount of natural light into your home and gives you an unmatched view of snowfall. It’s not a home renovation anyone would expect to see, which makes it the perfect thing to surprise your future guests with.

Adding one of these to your home might seem like a massive undertaking, but it’s very reasonable. Installation takes as little as one day, depending on your expertise and the model you choose. For example, a flat glass pane is much easier to put in than an electric dome. You only need to cut an opening, lay adhesive, place the skylight, seal the edges and add flashings.

2. Install Hardwood Flooring

Have you always wanted a timeless hardwood floor? Well, there’s no better time than now to get started. If you squeeze the project in before the holidays, you can wow everyone who visits. Even though wood needs to sit inside for roughly one week before installation so its moisture content can adjust, you can finish this project relatively quickly.

3. Add Storage to Your Entryway

Most homeowners would benefit from having extra storage, especially with guests around. If your current go-to place to store jackets and shoes is a bedroom, consider expanding with a quick renovation.

You can get pre-made shelves, cubbies, and coat hooks online or at your local hardware store. To install them, you only need a stud finder, drill and some screws. Overhead storage and wall-mounted holders won’t take up much space, so this project is great even in small rooms.

If you have experience with woodworking, you can build a cushioned bench with built-in storage underneath. Your guests will appreciate having a place to sit when removing all their extra layers.

4. Install Heated Floors

There’s nothing better than having a heated floor in the colder months. If you really want to impress everyone visiting for the holidays, install an electric radiant flooring system. Although the project can take up to three days to complete, you only need to spend roughly three hours on installation.

5. Place a Faux Baseboard

A faux baseboard is an especially useful project if your guests plan on bringing children around, considering it protects your walls from all sorts of contact damage. It also gives them a subtle, tasteful appeal. It should be a quick renovation since it only requires measurements and cutting.

6. Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets

If you want to refresh your kitchen without gutting it, painting should be your go-to strategy. After all, it’s affordable and fast. Your guests will marvel at how good your cabinets look whenever they grab food.

The most time consuming part of a cabinet refresh is waiting for the paint to dry. Since some kinds set more quickly than others, the number of hours you must put into this varies. For example, latex stays wet much longer than matte, but you can speed up the process with fans if you’re on a time crunch.

7. Add Built-In Shelving

Whether you buy pre-built shelves or make a custom version, installing built-in shelving is relatively straightforward. It really only involves measuring, cutting and placing. With previous DIY experience, this project should wrap up after only a few days of work.

8. Install a Handrail

Whether you plan on having small children or older adults around this holiday season, a wall-mounted handrail is one of the best additions to your home. For starters, it can substantially reduce the risk of slip-and-fall accidents. Also, it can act as a statement piece — what else can you put on the wall next to the staircase besides family photos?

While you can carve your own out of wood, there are plenty of pre-built options. You can find virtually every color and material type online. The installation process is simple. In fact, it only takes one day to complete, even if you hand-craft your own railing. You only need to mark where the studs are, drill holes and screw the handrail into the wall.

9. Replace Your Stair Treads and Risers

Do you have any loose, uneven or unsightly stairs? The best time to fix them is before your guests arrive for the holidays. Instead of simply leveling them out, consider replacing your treads and risers. This minor project will make it look like you have a completely new staircase.

The entire process should only take a few days. Once you remove the old material and trim the frame to fit the new treads and risers, you can start securing everything. Although it’s messy work, it costs less than $150 to do and looks fantastic.

10. Paint Your Front Door

There aren’t many ways to landscape when the ground is frozen and most plants are bare. Needless to say, updating your front door color is the easiest way to enhance your curb appeal before the holiday season. This is one of the fastest, most straightforward renovations you can possibly do. In fact, you only need to sand, prime and paint.

11. Update Bathroom Fixtures

Unless your guests are popping in to say hello and leaving, it’s a near certainty they’ll use your bathroom while visiting. Because of this, it’s a great space to focus your renovations on. Updating your bathroom fixtures can bring an entirely new aesthetic to these rooms. Short of ripping out and replacing your sink and toilet, it’s the most impactful renovation.

Generally, installing new fixtures is straightforward and fast — you don’t need any special plumbing knowledge to remove and replace them. If you know what you’re doing, you can wrap things up in a few hours at most.

12. Update Your Garage Door

Since garage doors are one of those things you buy once, they can get quickly dated. Of course, they’re one of the most noticeable things about a home since they take up so much space. Consider getting a new one if you’ve had yours for a while. Instead of installing a plain white one, try models with unique windows, colors or styles.

Now, it’s possible to replace your garage door in roughly six hours if you have help and know what you’re doing. However, dealing with the springs requires the utmost caution since they contain a lot of stored energy. Although this project may be one of the fastest on this list, it requires a fair amount of upfront research.

13. Replace Your Wall Plates

Almost every modern house has electrical outlets and light switches — and they all turn a dull yellow over time. Even though replacing the plates isn’t a massive renovation, it’s one of the easiest and instantly elevates a room. Even if your guests don’t immediately notice what looks so good in your house, they’ll subconsciously pick up on how clean your walls appear.

You only need a screwdriver and new wall plates for this project. Finding and replacing every visible one in your home can feel time consuming because it’s so repetitive, but the job should only take a few hours at most.

The Best Renovations Are the Easiest

In most cases, you can knock out a few renovations in a handful of months. Even if you can only dedicate your attention to them during your weekends, none of these projects are particularly time intensive. They’re perfect if you’re on a tight schedule.

10 Home Improvements That Will Make the Holidays Easier

With the holidays fast approaching, there’s no better time to upgrade your space with simple home improvements. Practical repairs and renovations do more than just look great — they improve your home’s functionality as you host festive gatherings for your loved ones.

Whether you’re ready for a full remodel or want to spruce up your house in time for the influx of parties this season, check out these home improvement projects that will make the holidays easier.

1. Upgrade Your Kitchen

Being with your loved ones is one of the best parts of the holiday season. The other best part? The food. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in the kitchen, especially if you love baking or are hosting a get-together, upgrading your space before the holidays might be a good idea.

Consider replacing your outdated appliances with new models. New appliances can save you time and can be a money-saving investment in the long run. For example, smart refrigerators and dishwashers are energy-efficient, which means they’ll save you money while withstanding heavy-duty use throughout the holidays. Look for ENERGY STAR products to get the features and quality you want while reducing environmental impact.

2. Install a Smart Thermostat

Whether you’re expecting tons of snow this winter or your holidays are filled with palm trees and sunshine, installing a smart thermostat is a wise investment.

The holidays are a busy time, with people frequently coming in and out of your home. To ensure you maintain a comfortable temperature inside, invest in a programmable smart thermostat. These allow you to set timers and sensors that adjust automatically, keeping your house at the exact temperature you want. Say goodbye to stuffy holiday parties or chilly drafts.

3. Organize the Garage

With more guests comes the need for more space. If you’re struggling to find enough room to accommodate everyone and everything in your home during the holidays, consider turning to your garage.

Cleaning out your garage and using it for extra storage is an excellent way to declutter and organize your belongings. Store unused or off-season decorations, cleaning supplies, or extra chairs and tables in the garage. They’ll be easily accessible when you need them but out of the way when you don’t. You can even use a digital inventory to keep track of what you’ve stored to optimize your system.

4. Enhance Your Entryway

Your home’s exterior is the first thing visitors see when they arrive. Whether it’s their first time seeing your new house or they’ve been celebrating the season with you for years, you can always leave a good impression with a beautiful entryway.

To spruce things up, add a fresh coat of paint to the front door or tidy up the walkway leading to your home. If you celebrate Christmas, decorate with festive lights or greenery to add a seasonal touch.

5. Update Your Flooring

Are your old floors ready to withstand all the holiday foot traffic? If it’s been a while and your floor looks a little worse for wear, consider an update.

You want to choose a durable material that can hold up against all the holiday cheer, like muddy footprints after cutting down the Christmas tree and the occasional spill from cooking. Consider laminate or luxury vinyl flooring, which are both built to last and great DIY projects.

Aside from improving the durability of your floor, guests are sure to be impressed by the update!

6. Freshen Things up With a Coat of Paint

You’d be surprised at how much one fresh coat of paint can liven up your space. New neutral-toned walls or one bold accent wall can be just the thing you need to make your living room look brand new. New paint also allows you to cover stains, scratches or fading colors, ensuring your home looks extra merry when you decorate for the holidays.

7. Revamp Your Fireplace

A fireplace is often the focal point of a room, especially during the holiday season — how else could Santa arrive to deliver presents? You want to ensure it’s a centerpiece you’re proud of. Remodeling your fireplace will help transform your living space into a cozy holiday oasis.

You might convert your wood-burning fireplace into an electric or gas fireplace, install a new hearth or paint the mantel. You can even focus on decor, switching up mantel decorations or putting decorations inside a nonfunctional fireplace.

8. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

The right light fixtures can create an enjoyable atmosphere all year round — including a cozy one on dark winter nights. Add under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen for a soft glow, or complement your dazzling Christmas lights with an elegant chandelier.

When shopping for new lighting fixtures, opt for ones that use energy-efficient bulbs. You’ll light up your home in style while saving money and protecting the environment.

9. Finish Your Basement

If you’re hosting guests over the holidays, you’ll want all the space you can get, and a finished basement opens up a whole new gathering area. You can turn your home’s lowest level into a cozy space that’s just as useful as the rest of your house.

With some drywall, hardwood flooring and your personal interior design touch, you can turn an unused space into an extra hangout spot or bonus bedroom. Any overnight holiday guests will appreciate the comfort and extra privacy of a finished basement.

10. Install a Home Security System

The holiday season might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also a time to be vigilant. Theft-related crimes increased by 20% in December, which means home security should be a top priority.

Fortunately, you can protect your home without losing sight of the season’s joy with a smart home security system that keeps an eye on your property while you enjoy time with loved ones. The holidays are often hard on your budget, but peace of mind when it comes to your home is priceless.

Make the Holidays Easier With These Home Improvements

It’s easy to enjoy the festive atmosphere and time with friends and family during the holiday season — especially when you’re comfortable in your home. Implementing just a few home improvements will freshen up your property and allow you to welcome visitors in style.

7 Exterior Upgrades You Should Make Before the Cold Weather Sets In

Maintaining a house requires practical upgrades alongside aesthetics. With frigid winter temperatures rolling in, you must prioritize exterior improvements to keep your space warm and energy-efficient. Otherwise, everything from mold, flooding and winter critters may find their way into your living room.

An unsealed door or outdated insulation may be the reason behind soaring bills and excess shivering. Put these exterior upgrades in place before the worst winter freezes.

Why Exterior Upgrades Motivate Homeowners

Undergoing a massive house project is expensive and sometimes disruptive to daily life. Having a hole in the wall where a window should be is not ideal if a blizzard comes. Unpredictable weather circumstances and extreme temperatures are why you must prioritize exterior upgrades before the colder months.

Your home’s envelope repels unconditioned environments to prevent tampering with its condition. The building’s life span reduces if dampness and cold cause cracks, gaps or pressure to its structural integrity. Consider how several feet of snow puts a 40-year-old roof to its limits, causing leaks and drafts. Exterior upgrades eliminate preventable deterioration and incite preventive maintenance.

The effort keeps you happier in your home for longer and makes future residents content with their purchase. The structure’s strength increases its value. Houses have a higher market value if outfitted with formidable winterization, primarily in regions known for brutal cold spells. The financial benefits show during a sale and on your monthly electricity statement.

Exterior enhancements mean you don’t exert your heating system as much. It uses less energy, makes your house more sustainable and preserves your appliances for longer.

Each upgrade compounds the value of the ones before it, so here are the most impactful and accessible improvements to retain precious heat and the home’s quality.

1. Get an Energy Audit and Checkup

Home inspections come in a few varieties, including ones from your energy provider and the American Institute of Inspectors. Auditors from various organizations provide jumping-off points for the most meaningful repairs, including suggestions for:

• Drainage systems
• Roofing
• Land management
• Gutters and roofing
• Leaks and drafts

If you don’t know where to start for winter repairs, get a professional to weigh in on what they think is the most critical to-do for freezing temperatures. They may inform you old kitchen windows and the pet door compromise the bottom floor’s temperature and humidity. Sometimes, a patch job like recaulking or weatherstripping is enough until you can save money for complete replacements. Discuss options with contractors or energy providers.

2. Clean Gutters

Gutter cleaning is a free and easy way to prevent some of the most costly repairs to a home. They collect debris more easily in winter. Torrential winds blow leaves while chunks of snow and dirt gum up the works. The worst-case scenario is the weight harms the roofing and tears the siding or water seeps through the siding and into the foundation.

To avoid the nightmare:

• Set a schedule for cleaning the gutters.
• Check for puddling rainwater, cracking and obstructions preventing flow.
• Maintain proper safety precautions when reviewing.

You can also pick up heating cables and other helpful supplements to simplify the job.

3. Check the Roof and Fascia Board

Review roofing for broken tiles, cracks in the seams and even the most minor pest-induced holes. For a cheaper option, patch them with weather-resistant materials. If it’s time to undergo a total roof replacement, consider naturally insulating and eco-friendly options, like rubber, or durable, weatherproof materials, like metal. Timely roof replacements incur long-term financial benefits, raising curb appeal and buyer interest up to 14% more than competition.

Many overlook the fascia board, the part under the roof. It predominantly helps with moisture control. If it is in poor condition because of rotting or damage, it will cause more issues — no matter how high-quality the roof is. Repair what is necessary or add a drip edge to divert water.

4. Install Outdoor Lighting and Safety Features

Keeping the home warm and secure is one aspect of winterizing. Your yard and driveways need attention before ice covers them, too. Sturdy outdoor lights keep pathways alight and warm when days get shorter. It makes walking safer at night, when unexpected ice patches or fallen branches may cause an injury.

Inspecting walkways and driveways for pavement repairs is essential since ice is a powerful force in making cracks worse. Other safety considerations include railings, nonslip mats and salt.

5. Prune Trees and Nourish Landscaping

Blizzards and heavy snow harm many fragile, brittle trees. Low-hanging branches and piling leaves are a few concerns, while some may need to consider chopping down trees altogether for fear of falling. Review the landscaping for old, weak ones posing threats before the worst weather appears.

You may also do a few landscaping projects to defend your home against chilling winds. Outside water faucets and pipes may need clearing and insulating to prevent them from bursting and damaging the landscaping and envelope. You can also plant robust shrubbery or evergreens, which are prime defenders for deterring gusts. Surround them in mulch to protect and ground their roots.

6. Give the Siding a Glow-Up

A paint job is a subtle and understated exterior winter upgrade. The wrong color holds onto cold temperatures, and chipped and peeling areas invite water to seep. Consider repainting areas and finishing them with a strong seal.

You can also look at the siding more holistically. You may not know how aging siding or old insulation hurts your home’s environment without an inspection. Replace sections with flexible yet sturdy materials that hold up to fluctuating temperatures. Expansion and contraction occur during these erratic periods, so you’ll want siding that’s up to the challenge.

7. Do a Chimney Inspection

It’s tempting to throw logs on the fire and settle back with hot cocoa as temperatures drop, but an uninspected chimney can instigate a few internal problems. Check the chimney’s exterior for structural issues and the entry point for blockages if you use it for in-home heating. Neglecting this essential home maintenance task can lead to fires and even carbon monoxide poisoning. If a chimney is no longer operational, ensure you seal the top.

Shielding Your Home Against the Cold

Exterior upgrades are like adding a sweater, scarf and mittens to a building. Cleaning gutters or adding weatherstripping saves money and your appliances while keeping the house standing for years. The more layers and defenses you have against snow, ice and rain, the more comfortable you will feel indoors and about your home’s durability.

10 Whimsical Houses to Inspire Your Next Home Renovation

Unique residences aren’t just eye candy — they offer a treasure trove of design inspiration for your next home renovation. From playful color schemes to inventive layouts, these whimsical homes invite you to rethink the traditional and unleash your creativity.

1.   The Hobbit Hole

Hobbit-like homes captivate people with their cozy, earth-integrated designs. These houses offer a sense of seclusion and tranquility, nestled into rolling hills or garden landscapes. Imagine round doors, curved walls and window frames that look right out of a storybook.

You can bring some Hobbit charm into your space with earthy elements. Consider using natural materials — like stone or wood — for your floors and walls. Incorporate potted plants or vertical gardens to improve indoor insulation and a touch of nature. Choose earth-tone colors like greens, browns and tans for a more subtle approach to creating a warm, organic atmosphere.

2.   The Treehouse Mansion

Elevated living takes home design to new heights, literally. Treehouse mansions offer an escape from the mundane, a sanctuary among the treetops. With panoramic views and the soothing sounds of nature, these homes make every day feel like a getaway.

To mimic this elevated aesthetic, consider incorporating wooden elements into your home. Wooden beams, hardwood floors or an indoor tree can add a rustic vibe without being overwhelming. Don’t forget to complement these wooden features with shades of green to mirror the natural surroundings of a treehouse.

In addition, potted plants or hanging baskets can bring the outdoors in. For a more dramatic effect, try installing a living wall. It’s like having a piece of the first right in your living room. Elevate your living space with these touches, and you’ll capture the magic of treetop living.

3.   The Fairytale Cottage

Fairytale cottages look as if they’ve been plucked straight out of a storybook. With their steeply pitched roofs, intricate woodwork and whimsical details, these homes embody childhood fantasies. The cobblestone pathways and overgrown gardens only add to the magical atmosphere.

You can sprinkle fairytale magic on your home by focusing on the exterior details. Think about adding a whimsical door knocker or intricate ironwork to your entryway. Window boxes filled with colorful flowers can bring a burst of enchantment to your facade. You can also include a turret or spire, echoing the classic fairytale castles for a dramatic touch.

4.   The A-Frame Retreat

A-frame houses are a retro favorite that has stood the test of time. Their distinctive triangular shape and exposed wooden beams bring a nostalgic yet timeless appeal. They also exude a camping aesthetic without exposing its inhabitants to the elements.

To add a cozy touch to your A-frame or any other home, start with the essentials — textiles. Plush rugs, warm throws and comfy cushions can transform a space into a cozy haven. Wooden or steel fireplaces are another great addition, providing warmth and a focal point for the room.

Lighting is significant, too. Opt for soft, ambient lighting through floor lamps or string lights to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. With these design choices, you’ll amplify the inherent coziness A-frame houses naturally offer.

5.   The Quirky Dome House

Dome houses provide a glimpse into the future of home design. Their smooth, rounded shapes and open interiors defy traditional architecture, making you feel like you’re stepping into a sci-fi movie. The minimalist lines and curves provide a sleek yet inviting appeal that’s hard to resist.

But there’s more than meets the eye. Dome houses aren’t just aesthetically pleasing — they’re also energy efficient. Their aerodynamic shape exposes less surface area to the elements, helping maintain a consistent internal temperature and significantly saving heating and cooling costs.

6.   The Minimalist Container Home

Container homes epitomize simplicity and sustainability. These homes are repurposed shipping containers and are pinnacles of eco-friendly living and affordability. The modular design also allows for a minimalistic approach, focusing on function without sacrificing style.

Customization is where container homes genuinely shine. The interiors offer a blank canvas for your design dreams. You can have an open-concept layout, built-in shelving or a loft-style bedroom without a problem. The endless options allow you to tailor the space to your needs and tastes.

7.   The Smurf House

The Smurf House’s iconic blue roof brings a sense of whimsy and playfulness that’s impossible to ignore. Inspired by the beloved cartoon characters, this unique roof design incorporates timeless design and imaginative shapes to create a fun and functional living space.

You can bring a dash of Smurf magic into your home with color. Playful, bold hues can liven up any space. Consider painting your front door in a bright shade, or go for a colorful roof from steam-bent cedar shingles if you’re adventurous. Inside, accent walls or colorful furniture can inject a sense of fun.

8.   The Victorian Beauty

Victorian homes are the epitome of timeless elegance. With their intricate moldings, patterned wallpapers and classic furnishings, these homes ooze sophistication. The high ceilings, ornate chandeliers and grand staircases are signature elements that make these homes truly stand out.

Aiming for a Victorian vibe, focus on rich colors like deep reds, greens or blues. These hues work well if you pick a statement color to highlight. Consider classic patterns — like damask or floral for wallpaper or textiles — to bring in more period-appropriate design elements.

Finish it off with some antique or antique-looking furniture and decor. Think tufted sofas or vintage mirrors to create a rich, luxurious atmosphere that fits current trends. With these tips, your home will radiate the timeless elegance that Victorian design is famous for.

9.   The Classic Farmhouse

Rustic design resonates with many because it offers a return to simpler times. The style celebrates natural materials, handmade items and a rugged yet cozy charm. It’s like bringing a piece of the countryside into your living space, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Start with the basics — like wood and stone — to inject some country chic into your home. For that rustic feel, consider wooden flooring, stone countertops, or a wood-burning stove. Reclaimed wood furniture or weathered pieces can also add an authentic touch.

Don’t forget textiles and decor. Opt for gingham, plaid or floral patterns to add visual interest. Finish the look with farmhouse-style accents like mason jar lights, wicker baskets and vintage trinkets. Before you know it, your home will exude the comfort and coziness of rustic design.

10.        The Adobe Desert House

Adobe desert homes are beautiful examples of architecture in harmony with nature. Their earthy tones from clay and compacted sand blend with the landscape, offering a seamless transition between home and the environment. It’s as if the house is a natural extension of the desert.

You can focus on an earthy color palette to capture a similar essence. Think shades of terracotta, beige and brown, complemented by pops of turquoise or coral to mimic the desert sky and flora. These colors tie your home to its surroundings and create a calming, grounded atmosphere.

Consider natural textures — like woven rugs or pottery — for decor to maintain that organic feel. Incorporating these elements will help your home blend beautifully with natural landscapes, offering a peaceful sanctuary that feels one with the earth.

Unlock Your Home’s Whimsical Potential

The possibilities are as boundless as your imagination, from Hobbit holes to Adobe desert houses. Each unique style showcases how a home can be a sanctuary and a canvas for creative expression.

So, take your time as you embark on your next home renovation. Let your imagination run wild and dare to break the mold. Whether you embrace an entire theme or sprinkle in some whimsical elements, your home will thank you.