6 New Year’s Resolutions for Home Improvement

Homes are usually our most important physical asset. So making sure that your house is in tip-top shape and making sure that everything works as it should is a useful goal for the New Year.

Not good at do-it-yourself? To help you we have added links to those entities in Paarl and Wellington who can help you to get the work done if you need it, and to finish up all those odd jobs once and for all.

Here are ShowMe’s suggested resolutions for some important home improvements in 2016.

1. Obtain ease of mind – beef up home security

Home security is so important in this day and age. How secure is your home and how safe are your possessions? Do you have a working alarm system? What about burglar bars and trellis-doors? Take a long hard look at your house, identify potential weak spots, think through what you need to do to improve security and then take steps to get it done. Not sure of what best to do or of the latest security systems available? Then to make sure your systems are in place and working properly, have your alarm company visit, test and update the system every year. Or, for demanding and complex requirements contact the Health, Safety and Security Consultancy for advice and technical assistance.

2. Eliminate irritations – repair that door, roof leak and other broken items

Fix up all those small, irritating things that you’ve been meaning to fix for months. Many small items that need to be done around the house can be done by yourself. What if you don’t have the right tools or need advice on what materials to use? The Internet is a great source of advice on almost every subject. But if you prefer personal advice then head over to Buco Hardware Paarl for expert assistance and all your DIY needs.

Perhaps you are “all thumbs” and don’t like doing maintenance work yourself; then make it easy – contact In-line Handyman Services for help to get the work done.

3. Make space in your home – declutter, and help others in the process

Decluttering your home has a wonderful impact on mind and soul. When you clear out everything you no longer use or need you too will feel like a new person. Make it a fun exercise in which the whole family takes part. Make a list of what must go and then set about it, resisting the temptation to put one or other “lovely old thing” back on the shelf. Once you have sorted them out, drop unwanted items off at your local hospice store or charity for them to pass on to more needy people. If the items are large contact Athlone House of Strength and they will collect free. Alternatively, to store items you don’t use every day but still don’t want to get rid of in case you or the children may need them again one day, then contact That Storage Place for suitably sized and priced storage.

4. Be in contact with family and friends – improve your home network

Today the Internet is everywhere. Communication is easy and almost free. Do you have email? SMS service? WhatsApp? NO?? Being connected to the outside world, family and friends from anywhere in your home makes life that much easier. If you are not technically-minded or uncertain how to go about it then get help to set up your home system. We suggest contact Ibits to put you in contact with the world.

5. Enjoy outdoors after dark – eliminate insects and flying pests

At this time of the year mosquitoes and other bugs can be a huge irritation. Tired of trying to braai or to have a meal outside on a hot evening and finding yourself surrounded by insects? Just reach for the can of insecticide, you say? Why not resolve to fix the problem once and for all. There are other options to consider such as, eliminate pools of stagnant water – the source of many pests; install a Eurolux electric bug-killer (from Buco Hardware); and more. Need to ventilate but also keep insects out? For a cost-effective and easy way to install DIY window insect screens  give Bug Out a call.

6. Do your bit for the planet – plant trees

Planting shrubs or trees are a great way to look after the planet as they play such an important role in carbon absorption. Trees also add character and shade to any garden. This is also a good time to involve the whole family – resolve to plant one tree or shrub for each family member which they can personally look after over the years. Not sure what indigenous plants will do best in your area? Then Head over to your Paarl Nursery or VIP Gardens to get advice and select some suitable water-wise trees, shrubs and plants. In a few short years sit and make New Year’s Resolutions under tall shady trees.

Read about other suggestions on personal New Year’s Resolutions here.

ShowMe wishes all viewers in Paarl and Wellington a safe, happy and stress-free New Year.