Traditionally, the kitchen is king when it comes to making an impact on a home’s identity, making it truly the “heart of the home.” But having a beautiful bathroom is even more important for many home owners.
In fact, according to a recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders, bathrooms outpaced kitchens as the most popular remodeling project.
Earlier this year, NAHB released the survey results, which rank the most common remodeling projects from the previous year. While many of the top projects have remained consistently popular over the years, kitchens and bathrooms continue to jockey for the top spot.
Small-scale renovations are slowly becoming just as popular as large-scale projects, and home owners in the Chattanooga area are finding these cost-effective, quick upgrades not only add comfort to their homes, but they also add value.
Topping the list
Remodelers who participated in the survey reported the following jobs completed within the last year:
-- 81 percent: bathroom remodeling
-- 78 percent: kitchen remodeling
-- 49 percent: whole house remodeling
-- 37 percent: room additions
-- 30 percent: window and door replacements
Rounding out the top 10 list of common remodeling jobs were building decks, repairing property damage, finishing basements, performing general handyman services and replacing or repairing roofs.
Going ‘green’ is key
While remodeling is commonly associated with kitchens and baths, demand for green upgrades continues to swell as home owners seek to save on utility costs, improve air quality and increase the value of their homes.
An additional survey by NAHB Remodelers showed that high-performing, low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are the most common green-building product installed by residential remodelers. Programmable thermostats and high-efficiency HVAC systems also ranked high among the most common green products used.
Home remodeling projects continue to be a popular alternative for those who aren’t ready to buy a new home, as well as for senior home owners who prefer to stay in their current residence. For these consumers, there are a wide variety of modifications that can make their home safer and more comfortable.
Visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga online directory at www.hbagc.net to find a qualified professional in your area who can enhance your home’s unique features.