The Top 5 Home Improvement Projects of 2016
When it comes to home improvement for us Americans, practical investments are king. As much as we’d love to say yes to luxury updates like pool installations and home theaters, there’s no going wrong with a functional upgrade — whether it be indoors or outdoors. (Think: decks, fences and flooring galore.) Interested in starting up a home improvement project in time for the new year? Introducing The Thumbtack 100, which highlights 10 key trends in 10 home and personal improvement areas for 2016. Scroll on to find out which of America’s favorite home projects you should take on next!
1. General contracting was the most popular home improvement method. Ranked number one on the list of top home improvement trends is general contracting. If you’re looking for the services of a handyman for repairs and installation, however, the cost ranges anywhere between $75-$225.
2. Interior paint was more in than exterior paint. As important as the outside of the home is, according to data, it seems interior painting is 2.7 times more popular than exterior painting. But, of those who did paint the outside of their homes, 69 percent switched to a new color.
3. Decks and porches were the most popular remodeling projects. Of all remodeling projects this year, decks and porches were the *top* projects. Though, interestingly, home theaters make up one in every eight home automation projects. And one surprising fact is that Americans remodel their bathrooms two times as often as their kitchens.
4. Fences were the number-one outdoor structure. Of the various outdoor rooms and buildings we have (sheds, gyms, parking garage, etc.), the number one outdoor structure this year are fences. Surprisingly, 29 percent of those fences are built not to keep things out but to keep pets in.
5. Carpet was more popular than hardwood floors. When compared to new hardwood floors, carpet installation is shown to be 18 percent more popular. Though a hassle to clean if you drop food or drink, carpet is the budget-friendly alternative that promises to keep toes nice and toasty.
Which home project will you take on first? Follow us on Pinterest for more home ideas and inspo!
(Photos via Getty)
