There are many ways to add aesthetic value to your home; the trick though is to get a return on your investment along with it. Most homeowners think about the interior of the home when considering upgrades however, renovations on the exterior of the home are just as important. Exterior home improvements that boost your homes curb appeal can go a long way in increasing the value of your home. First impressions often make or break how buyers look at a home. The exterior appeal of your home can literally change the way your home is perceived to future buyers.
Of course, most homeowners don’t move forward with renovations to our homes because we will one day will sell the home. We make upgrades to improve the quality of our experiences in the home. It is important homeowners consider both their personal enjoyment and added value. Here are five exterior projects that we believe will add value now and later.
Add a Deck and/or Porch
Sitting in a comfortable chair enjoying a cup of coffee or glass of wine on your porch or deck is a feeling better than any amount of money. Even the smallest of homes with a yard of any size can enjoy the benefits of a space outdoor that is able to be used as a livable space. It is important that the area be in proportion with the landscape. The addition of the deck or porch should only consist of 1/5th of the overall space. Even a small patio space, set aside, can make a world of difference. The perception, and hopefully the reality, is that it is a space that used to relax and contemplate the beginning or end of the day.
Replace the Front Door
The first thing you see when you come upon your home is the front door. An older style door can really date your home. The front door of a home not only adds to the appeal of your home it is a big part of the home’s safety. Consider replacing an older front door with a new steel or fiberglass front door with a little bit of artistry to add to the overall look of the home and entry way.
New Window Installation
New windows for a home can be quite expensive; most homeowners don’t consider replacing windows until they absolutely need to. That however, can be a huge mistake. Your homes windows are crucial in providing light, ventilation, and insulation. New windows are a great way to improve the energy efficiency within the home while increasing the appeal to the exterior. Windows are one of the first renovations to consider in older homes as advancements in windows with both durability and energy efficiency far surpasses that of older window technologies.
Maintenance: Roof, Gutters, Siding, and Landscape
Twice a year it is important to take time to do complete a thorough cleaning of the exterior of your home. This is above and beyond the normal weekly maintenance. A homes roof should be inspected and maintained at the beginning of spring and the end of fall. This will ensure that any cracks in the caulking are filled, missing shingles replaced, and leaks are caught before causing damage to the structure of the home.
Gutters should be cleaned as well during this time to ensure that leaves and extra debris are removed, and the gutters are allowing water to properly flow away from the home. There are many problems that come from improperly functioning gutters including ice dams that lead to roof and structural damage.
It is important to keep up on your homes exterior such as siding and masonry. Power washing and touch ups should be performed as needed to prevent any major build ups of mold, algae, or fungus. This will keep the siding in tip top shape both structurally and aesthetically.
Your homes landscaping is another element that cannot be ignored. It is a huge part of the exterior view of your home. Homeowners are wise to complete weekly maintenance such as mowing, weeding, and watering on-top of the chores that need to be completed at least twice a season such as tree trimming, edging, fresh mulch, separating over grown plants, and grass care.
Learn more about Kearns Brothers, a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all Southeast Michigan’s interior and exterior construction needs by visiting their website at www.kearnsbrothers.com or contact a remodeling expert at 888.355.6700.