10 Home Improvement Projects That Will Give You Bang for Your Buck in 2023

Each year Remodeling Magazine produces a list of the top projects to increase your home’s value and how much of the costs you can recoup for homeowners throughout the United States. Based on 2022’s Cost vs Value Report for the Pacific Northwest, here are the top 10 projects you can get the most return on in 2023, with their percentage of cost recouped and the average cost of each project.

1. Garage door replacement – 95.1%, average cost $4,190

Replacing your garage door can be a great way to increase your energy savings. If it’s been a while since it’s been replaced, you can gain significant insulation value by increasing its R-value and including today’s insulated glass panels.

The cost above only includes replacing the garage door and does not include a new motorized opener.

2. Manufactured stone veneer – 92.7%, average cost $11,867

Trade out a portion of your existing siding to provide an accent to your home’s exterior. Manufactured stone veneer is a thin, lightweight product that looks like real stone, including natural stone’s color variations.

The cost above was for about 300 square feet of veneer, water-resistant barrier, lath and fasteners, and mortar scratch coat and setting bed.

3. Minor kitchen remodel – 71.2%, average cost $31,413

A minor kitchen remodel includes a refresh for your cabinets and countertops, new appliances, a new sink and faucet, new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint. With today’s energy-efficient appliances, you can continue to save on your power bill long after the remodel is complete.

The cost above was based on a 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of cabinets and countertops.

4. Window replacement (wood) – 75.8%, average cost $25,751

Replacing your existing wood-framed windows can save you energy costs and give your home an instant facelift. Trim the outside of your new windows with contrasting siding or cladding. The contrast in colors can give you an updated look without having to repaint or replace all of your sidings.

The cost above was based on replacing 10 existing 3’x5’ double-hung windows with insulated, low-E, divided-light wood windows.

5. Window replacement (vinyl) – 75.5%, average cost $21,963

Most homes these days have vinyl or composite windows. Replacing them with more efficient insulated windows will save energy and keep your home temperature more consistent. Vinyl windows can be ordered with a variety of color finishes to match any décor or style.

The cost above was based on replacing 10 existing 3’x5’ double-hung windows with insulated, low-E, divided light vinyl windows.

6. Siding replacement (fiber-cement) – 73.8%, average cost $26,158

Using pre-primed, prepainted fiber-cement siding saves you the time and hassle of painting your home and improves its look of it instantly. While cement siding costs more than vinyl, it is hardier, more versatile, and is fire, heat, and weather resistant. Product warranties can last up to 50 years.

The cost above was based on replacing 1,250 square feet of existing siding with the new fiber-cement product, including trim.

7. Deck Addition (composite) – 73.2%, average cost $28,366

With our mild springs and wonderful summers, the Northwest is a perfect environment to enjoy the outdoors on a deck. Composite materials, like TimberTech, Azek PVC, and Trex, offer a variety of materials for you to choose from. Composites require little maintenance and are extremely durable, lasting up to 50 years.

The cost above was for adding a 16’x20’ composite wood deck, with concrete piers, a built-in bench and planter, stairs, and a railing system.

8. Grand Entrance (fiberglass) – 72.3%, average cost $11,219

Transform your front door from just a door to an entrance! Selecting the right door is important, especially when it comes to the entrance to your home. A front door must protect you from the elements, while it says something about you and your family’s style.

The cost above was for removing an existing front door and replacing it with a larger door that includes dual sidelights, hardware, and trim.

9. Siding replacement (vinyl) – 72.1%, average cost $22,067

Vinyl siding provides years of protection and beauty for your home’s exterior and is friendly to the environment. It comes in a variety of colors and styles and is durable and maintenance-free. Generally, the product is less expensive than fiber cement and is easier to install.

The cost above was based on replacing 1,250 square feet of existing siding with the new vinyl products, including trim.

10. Deck addition (wood) – 72.0%, average cost $23,858

Another option for an outdoor deck is to use wood, like Western Red Cedar or pressure-treated Douglas Fir. Cedar provides a great natural look that doesn’t require protection. Elite decking, made of pressure-treated Douglas Fir, is stained and treated with womanized CAC, which helps it last 10 times longer than nontreated lumber. Either way, you’re sure to have a wonderful deck that you can enjoy for years to come.

The cost above was based on constructing a 16’x20’ pressure-treated deck, with concrete piers, a built-in bench and planter, stairs, and a railing system.

Whether you decide to take on one of these projects yourself or hire a professional, you can find the materials you need at Parr Lumber. Our Parr team is standing by to help you select just the right look for your project.