Saving money is important if you're a homeowner, since you’ll have to budget for repairs and upgrades. The following 10 tips will help you save money that can add up significantly over time:

1. Update your insulation

Most homeowners don’t have enough insulation, so up to 60 percent of your heating and cooling costs could be lost. Adding sufficient insulation could cut 35 percent off your electricity bill!

2. Don’t underestimate the dollar store

Dollar stores can yield many great deals on daily and seasonal needs, from batteries to cleaning supplies, and even deodorants and greeting cards! 

3. Collect – and use – coupons

A newspaper subscription can pay for itself if you make good use of the Sunday coupons. If you prefer to print your coupons, check coupons.com. 

4. Check your water heater’s thermostat

Some manufacturers set their water heater thermostats at 140º. Having your water heater temperature reset to 120º will save money and reduce the risk of scalding.

5. Change your air filters on time

Air filters are inexpensive to replace, and they can help your heating/air conditioning system to run more efficiently.

6. Make a list – and stick to it!

Make a list before you go to the store, and make a commitment to buy only what you’ve written down. Otherwise, impulse purchases can sink your budget.

7. Try to avoid using your oven in the summer

An oven not only heats up your food, it also heats up the kitchen and surrounding rooms. 

8. Use ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can be set to blow down toward you in the summer, helping keep you cooler.

9. Plant shade trees near your house

Shade trees help protect your home from the hot sun during the summer. You should have greater comfort and lower air conditioning bills as a result.

10. Choose energy-efficient appliances

When you’re shopping for new appliances, check out the energy information. It will estimate the yearly cost to operate your appliance, so you can select one that’s in your budget and will cost the least to operate.

From insulation and drywall to roofing repairs and replacement, contact First Quality Roofing & Insulation. We can help you get the most for your money.