Summer will arrive faster than you think

Daylight saving is just around the corner. September means that officially spring is. A lot of us are looking forward to getting out and about around the country, but it’s looking like New Zealanders will be spending another summer on shore.

Typically, spring is a great time to clean the house out, tidy things up, and get it ready for summer. Maybe you find something that needs fixing, or maybe the energy to renovate comes back with the daylight and warmth, but it’s always a busy time for DIY and professional builders.

This is what makes this spring even more important to get the cleaning out of the way and the renovation or building planning done. If last summer with borders closed is anything to go by, this summer is going to be just as busy in the construction industry!

We’re all buying and selling in the same (insane) housing market as well, which means a little renovation work can do wonders for your return on investment.

As home improvement specialists at HomePlus, we have a few areas you could easily get done now to make your summer more comfortable or prepare your home for hitting the market.

1. Add some protection from the bugs

Warm months mean wide-open doors and windows to allow the summer breeze to flow through. Nothing beats fresh air, especially on a hot day. With wide-open windows and doors come bugs though. Attracted to your lights late in the evening or the smell of your tasty food, bugs can hassle you all night or make a mess of your ceiling.

This is where an insect screen for your doors and windows comes in. We have a range of custom-made options that are easy to use and barely visible to your eye. From magnetic options for your windows to the wide-spanning Venette system. Designed and installed by our team, insect screens are a simple way to add value to your life and your home. We also have a range of security doors that will also keep the bugs outside and keep the air flowing without sacrificing style.

2. Building a deck? You’ll need a good balustrade system

Adding a deck to your home is a popular Kiwi DIY project for summer, but it doesn’t matter the size of your deck, if it’s over 1m above ground level, you’ll need to have a balustrade system to legally meet the building code. A good balustrade makes your deck a more comfortable entertainment area as well. Designed right, with the help of our team, you’ll get a system that fits in with the design of your home seamlessly and if you’ve got a view; we have a range of glass options to accommodate those of you who want an uninterrupted view.

A well-built balustrade will last for a long time and is something your home will see a good return on investment with, especially if your deck overlooks some amazing scenery.

3. Cover your entertainment area

Covering your outdoor entertainment area is a great way to add value to your home. Essentially extending your floorplan, without actually adding onto your home. There are many variations of pergola or outdoor roofing available, but one of the most popular choices over the last few years has been to install a louvre roof.

A louvre roof gives you more control over the weather; let sunlight through in the evening or block it (or rain) during the day. A louvre roof won’t need building consent if under 30m2 as long as it adheres to the building code and is installed by a professional. This means far fewer hang-ups and that you can crack straight into your projects.

Add even more value by transforming your covered area into an outdoor room. By adding glass sliding doors, louvre panels or dropdown awnings you can begin to blur the lines between inside and outside; all depending on how you feel and the day's weather. You’ll find outdoor rooms in a lot of new homes where the outdoor area is smaller, this is to maximise the space and usage throughout the year.

There you have it, a few ideas to get your going this spring. Head to our Facebook page if you need more inspiration, we’ll be posting hints and tips throughout spring. Good luck with your projects this spring and summer!