Lifestyle

10 Home Improvements That Can Improve the Value of Your Home

Published

4 years ago

November 13, 2020

You may be thinking of selling your home or just improving its appearance for your pleasure. Whatever the reason, there are many ways to do this. If you’re battling to decide which features to restore or repair, then these following ten suggestions should give you some idea.

It’s also advisable to ask an estate agent to look at your property and provide you with suggestions if you’re planning to sell. Ask a friend or family member to give you their opinion as well. Alternatively, you could view some houses currently on show to get a sense of what home buyers are looking for.

Below are ten suggestions which might assist you:

Interior

Electrical

Make sure all that all electrical fittings and wiring are fully functional and in a safe condition. Some older homes’ wiring may not be able to support the more modern appliances and thus need to be upgraded. Any appliances remaining in the house should also be in good working condition.

Flooring

Where possible, torn carpets should be replaced or lifted and broken tiles replaced.

Bathroom

If the bathtub is stained, it’s advisable to have this seen too. Make sure you clean the bathroom properly, and there’s no mildew or soap residue on any of the surfaces.

Kitchen

Ensure that all cupboards are in good condition with no loose hinges or broken door handles. It’ll help if you fix any leaky faucets.

General Cleaning

Before your house goes on the market, give it an overall cleaning and a good paint. Decluttering is also advisable; this will give your home a more spacious appearance.

Exterior

Painting

Whether you’re planning to sell or not, it’s always a good idea to give your home a paint every 5 to 10 years. The time period would be dependent on the climate of the city where you live.

Eaves

It would be best if you inspected the eaves for any loose or rotten fascia boards. If necessary, you might have to employ a contractor to attend to this. Visit this page for more information regarding professionals working at your home.

Garden And Surroundings

If you have a garden, ensure that all trees, shrubs, and plants are neatly trimmed and de-weed where necessary. Keeping the lawn short and neat goes a long way in giving your garden an attractive appearance.

Paved areas can also be cleaned by hosing down any dirt accumulating on the surfaces. Removing all weeds or grass growing between any paving should also be done.

Windows And Doors

Evaluate doors and their frames which faces outward, especially if they’re wooden. They might need to be sanded down and given a coat or two of varnish. It also can’t do any harm to wash your windows or hire a Cincinnati window cleaning service.

Garage

Maintaining a neat garage is always difficult, but it definitely makes a good impression when everything is organized and tidy. So, it’ll be useful to declutter if need be and fix any broken or damaged fixtures.

In Closing

To add value to your home, remember to focus on your kitchen and bathroom when busy inside. Then don’t forget to check on the flooring, all electrical components, and do an overall clean of the whole house.

Outside, spruce up your garden and surroundings as well as doing some maintenance on windows, doors, and eaves. Finally, declutter your garage and give your house a lick of paint.

Lifestyle

The Ultimate Guide to Dashboard and Console Maintenance

Published

18 hours ago

January 23, 2025

Michelle Langton

When it comes to car care, the dashboard and console often receive less attention compared to the exterior or engine. However, maintaining these interior surfaces is crucial – not just for aesthetics but also for preserving your vehicle’s value and ensuring a comfortable driving experience. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dashboard and console maintenance, from cleaning to protecting these surfaces.

Why Dashboard and Console Maintenance Matters

Your car’s dashboard and console are constantly exposed to dust, UV rays, fingerprints, and spills. Over time, neglecting these areas can lead to:

Fading and cracking caused by sun exposure.
Build-up of dirt and grime, making your car’s interior look tired.
Unpleasant odours from trapped debris or spills.
Decreased resale value due to visible wear and tear.

With proper care, you can keep your car’s interior looking fresh and prevent long-term damage.

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools and Products

Before you begin, having the right tools is essential for effective and safe dashboard and console cleaning. Here’s what you’ll need:

Microfibre cloths – Soft and lint-free for cleaning without scratching.
Dashboard cleaner – Choose a product designed for your dashboard’s material, whether it’s vinyl, leather, or plastic.
Detailing brushes – Perfect for cleaning small crevices and vents.
Protectants – These shield surfaces from UV damage and keep them looking new.
Vacuum cleaner with attachments – For removing dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

For premium-quality car care products, you can explore a trusted retailer like Detail Central, which offers a wide range of solutions tailored to every car enthusiast’s needs.

Step 2: Cleaning Your Dashboard and Console

Dust First: Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and dirt. Start from the top of the dashboard and work your way down to avoid spreading debris.
Target Crevices: Use a detailing brush to clean small areas like air vents, buttons, and edges where dust tends to accumulate.
Apply Cleaner: Spray a small amount of dashboard cleaner onto a cloth (not directly onto the surface) and wipe gently. Avoid oversaturating, as too much moisture can damage electronics.
Spot-Treat Stains: For stubborn stains, use a soft brush or sponge with a mild cleaner to lift the dirt without scratching the surface.
Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment to clean around the gear shift, cup holders, and other hard-to-reach areas.

Step 3: Protecting Your Dashboard and Console

Once your dashboard and console are spotless, the next step is protection:

Apply Protectant: Choose a UV-resistant protectant to guard against fading and cracking. Apply it evenly using a clean cloth, and buff away any excess to prevent a greasy finish.
Use a Sunshade: A sunshade can reduce direct sunlight exposure, especially during Australia’s harsh summers.
Regular Maintenance: Dust and wipe your dashboard weekly to maintain its appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid cleaners with ammonia or alcohol, as they can dry out and damage surfaces.
Overusing Water: Excess moisture can seep into buttons or seams, causing damage.
Skipping Protectant: Neglecting to use a protectant leaves your dashboard vulnerable to UV damage.

The Importance of Professional Detailing

While regular maintenance can keep your dashboard and console in great shape, professional detailing services provide a deeper clean and long-lasting protection. Experts use specialised tools and products to ensure every crevice is spotless and safeguarded.

If you’re serious about car care, partnering with professionals or investing in high-quality products can make all the difference.

A clean and well-maintained dashboard and console enhance not only the look of your car’s interior but also your driving experience

With the right products and techniques, you can protect these surfaces from damage and maintain their showroom-like condition for years to come. Start your journey to pristine car interiors today by equipping yourself with premium car care solutions. Your car – and your passengers – will thank you!