Home improvement refers to the process of repairing, renovating or updating a house. It also includes adding features to a house, such as an additional room, deck or patio. It can also be used to improve energy efficiency, such as with new windows or insulation. A large part of the home improvement industry is made up of general contractors, who specialize in a variety of areas and can handle all aspects of a project. Other parts of the industry include retailers that sell home improvement supplies, as well as aggregators that connect homeowners with service providers.
Some home improvements, such as replacing worn carpeting or painting rooms, have a high return on investment and can make your house feel brand new. Other projects, such as putting in a new kitchen or bathroom, can increase your home’s value and help it stand out in the marketplace. It’s important to remember that you may not live in your house forever, so make sure any renovations you undertake are attractive to future buyers.
It’s best to save up money for home improvement projects before beginning them, but if that isn’t possible, there are financing options available. If you choose to borrow, avoid taking out a loan with variable interest rates. Instead, consider a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or second mortgage, which have fixed rates and are backed by your house. Consumers should also check a contractor’s license and insurance before hiring them to work on their home.