entertains, educates & inspires marriages
Find Marriage Answers
home
7 Safety Home Improvement Tips
Follow these seven home improvement safety suggestions to protect your investment from going up in smoke.


BigStockPhoto
Before you add a room or install appliances, be sure your home infastructure is sound.


Home improvement projects can offer years of enjoyment and make great investments— especially for newlyweds looking to fix up their first homes or increase their homes’ energy efficiency. To ensure valuable renovations to their homes, new homeowners must be focused and patient to make careful decisions that positively impact the value of their homes while minimizing costs. However, while budget and aesthetic considerations are always important, safety should also be at the top of any "to do" list.

With Americans spending more than $225 billion in 2007 for home improvements—an increase from $188 billion in 2005, according to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies, it's clear that new homeowners and do-it-yourselfers don't mind remodeling. Granted, the current economy has put a damper on those numbers. But saying as much, whether in a good economy or bad, here are some simple suggestions that sometimes get overlooked, but make a big impact on the safety and integrity of your home improvement project:

1. Check your wires. Before you start any project involving electricity, ask a qualified electrician to make certain you have enough wattage and that your wiring is up to building code standards.

2. Before you install appliances, consider accessibility to outlets. If you plan accordingly, you can cut down on exposed wires and extension cords, which will reduce the possibility of fire. It’s also a good idea to consider adding outlets near your new appliances.

3. Consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI). In the event of a short, these circuits turn electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can occur.

4. Consider upgrading your safety devices. Smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, fire detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and home burglary alarms—with or without monitoring—can protect your investment and keep your home beautiful for years to come.

5. Take a look at the caulking around your windows. Proper caulking around your windows can help prevent water damage and lower heating bills.

6. In the kitchen, ask a qualified plumber to check the condition of your pipes. Also, if you have small children, consider installing kid-safe features such as oven door surface warning lights, out of reach burner knobs and stove knob covers.

7. If you have a fireplace, consider upgrading its energy efficiency. Installing an air circulation devices or a pellet stove can help with energy conservation and safety. Also consider getting a stone for your fireplace that will radiate your heat, making it more efficient.

Once you’ve completed your improvements, be sure that you’ve protected your investment adequately by not overlooking these very important safety items. When all else fails be you’re your insurance coverage is sufficient. Check with your insurance agent to ensure that the amount of insurance protection on your property is appropriate. Also, check whether your homeowners’ policy offers ‘replacement cost’ coverage. This coverage provides you with additional protection, subject to your deductible in the event your existing coverage limit is inadequate to rebuild your home or replace your contents. Last, check if any of your improvements qualify you for insurance discounts or credits.

Erin Plaziak is a director of product development at MetLife Auto & Home. Plaziak has more than 15 years experience in the insurance industry.


Over 1 million couples turn to Hitched for expert marital advice every year. Sign up now for our newsletter & get exclusive weekly content that will entertain, educate and inspire your marriage.





Pin It

Connect with us:        

Leave a Comment

Over 1 million couples turn to Hitched for expert marital advice every year. Sign up now for our newsletter & get exclusive weekly content that will entertain, educate and inspire your marriage.



The Formula for a Magical Union: 10 Tips for Bliss

Fighting Fair: The 7 Secrets to a Successful Relationship.

How to Keep the Magic Alive: 5 Ways to Energize Your Marriage

3 Ways to Stop Feeding Emotional Eating

You’ve Got the Power: 4 Ways to Embody Courage and Confidence







Get Featured