NARI celebrates Home Improvement Month
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NARI celebrates Home Improvement MonthDES PLAINES, IL –

May is National Home Improvement Month and the National Assn. of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is celebrating by offering homeowners advice for getting the most value out of their remodeling investment.

There is an increased value when a home is improved and NARI offers the following remodeling tips:

* Curb appeal goes a long way. Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.

* According to Energy Star, half of a home's energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.

* All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes. And recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.

* Kitchen and bath renovations are still popular-and for good reason. Homeowners continue to see the value in updating areas of the home that are used frequently and are high functioning. Universal design concepts are commonly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes and abilities and conveniences for long-term residents.

NARI also advices homeowners to be aware of the enforcement of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) new regulations for contractors working in homes built before 1978. The Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule mandates that remodelers who intend to work in pre-1978 homes to register their company and complete an 8-hour training and certification course with an accredited trainer.

Posted by Michaelle Bradford

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