Should you Splurge or Save on These Home Projects?

Jenna Harris
Written by Jenna Harris
Updated June 15, 2021
window replacement
When it comes to replacement windows, you should spend now to save later. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member S. Roselle of Newport News, Virginia)

Many homeowners enjoy the process of performing home updates.

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From smaller items like choosing the right lighting for a room to the more expensive decisions like roofing replacement, every step matters. Read about some ideas on when you should spend the big bucks versus when it's OK to save some money.

Window replacement

Windows provide aesthetic appeal both inside and out, and more importantly, affect your heating and cooling bill. Because of this, it’s OK to splurge on windows. Consider spending the extra money to be sure that you have a quality window that will last and provide your home with more benefits in the long run. 

Crown molding

crown molding near ceiling
Installing crown molding throughout an entire home quickly becomes expensive. (Photo by Summer Galyan)

Crown molding is a design piece that some homeowners like to add throughout their home. If you are considering a number of projects, the molding may be something to install yourself or skip completely until a later time. Installing crown molding throughout an entire home quickly becomes expensive. If you can skip the molding or wait until later, this allows more money to go toward a larger project. 

Roof replacement

roof replacement
You'll want to splurge when it comes to your shelter from the storm. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Jason H. of Stuart, Florida)

Does your roof need to be replaced? Get it replaced sooner rather than later to avoid causing problems. A roof protects your entire home, so spend the money to have it done right with a high quality product. Higher quality roofing materials typically include excellent warranties. Some roof materials have warranties up to 50 years, which means that it may be the last roof you will ever buy. Work with your local contractor to ensure that the right roofing material and warranty are purchased for your home. 

MORE: Watch out for These 5 Roofing Scams

Light fixtures

light fixture
Look for light fixture deals online or at thrift stores. (Photo by Summer Galyan)

Light fixtures can transform an entire room, but it doesn’t take an expensive light fixture to do that. Save money on this aspect of your home update by choosing unique, inexpensive lights. Shop for them at thrift stores or online.

Websites like Pinterest offer a plethora of ideas for giving life to old lamps or creating your own.

MORE: How To Rewire a Thrift Store Lamp

Home improvement projects should be exciting! Don’t let them be a huge drain on your energy and wallet. Take the time to sit down and plan what you would like to get done and what steps you can take to achieve those goals. Create a budget for each project and get started! 

This article originally appeared on the Snap Construction blog

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As of Aug. 28, 2015, this service provider was highly rated on Angie's List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check Angie's List for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie's List. 

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