Home improvement is any renovation or addition that improves the function and appearance of a residence. It can include landscaping, repairing fences, painting, adding doors or windows, installing carpeting or drywall, and more. While some homeowners seek to increase a home’s resale value through costly improvements, others renovate for their own enjoyment or convenience. Whatever the motivation, it is important to plan projects carefully and keep safety in mind.

According to Anderson, some of the home improvement categories that are surging include deck construction and putting up fences. He believes this is partly because rock-bottom interest rates make it easier for consumers to finance these projects and partly because people are feeling more secure in their homes as a result of recent events.

Another common home improvement project is adding an extra bedroom or bathroom, which can add considerable value to a house. This can be a great idea for families, or even single people who want more living space.

Another popular home improvement is replacing outdated fixtures and appliances with newer models. This can be a relatively inexpensive way to add some freshness to a room, and it may also help save money on energy bills. However, it’s important to remember that not all upgrades will pay off if you try to sell your house later. If you’re unsure about which projects will add the most to your resale value, talk to a real estate agent. Also, don’t forget to update your home insurance policy as you renovate.