The construction, repair, alteration, remodeling, or improvement of a residential or noncommercial building or structure. This includes but is not limited to interior and exterior painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, floor coverings, window treatments, furniture, landscaping, and similar projects.
The term home improvement may also refer to the construction, maintenance or modification of a swimming pool. Home improvement is one of the most popular forms of recreation in America and has become a major industry, with many large companies such as Lowe’s and Home Depot operating national or regional home improvement departments. These companies, along with smaller local businesses and independent contractors, cater to homeowners seeking to make changes to their properties, as well as to people who are looking for ways to increase the value of their homes. However, it is important to remember that not all home improvement projects are necessarily good investments. Most people renovate their homes based on their own needs and desires, rather than out of concern for the resale value of the property. In fact, according to a recent study by Remodeling Magazine, very few home improvements ever fully recoup their costs. Instead, if you want to improve your home, try to focus on making it more comfortable for yourself and your family. This will usually have a greater return on investment than simply trying to make it look like the homes in your neighborhood. Regardless of what type of home improvement you are considering, be sure to hire a professional contractor and carefully research your options. Prices can vary widely among contractors, as can quality of work and reliability.