Your home interiors could look like Jean-Louis Deniot’s splendid Pièce de résistance, but if your home exterior is humdrum, it won’t matter. Home buyers today are looking for a complete package that includes curb appeal. So, if you’re considering putting your home on the market or want to increase its value, you’ll want to focus on exterior upgrades.
When looking to spruce up the outside, most homeowners first think of siding, windows, and doors. But these days, there’s so much more that you can do.
This post will be your guide to home exterior projects that will raise the value of your property.
Roofing Replacement:
A house’s roof is an essential feature. You can spot your property from miles away by its roofline. Not only does a new roof add curb appeal, but it also protects your home from the elements. A typical roof will last 20 to 30 years. So, if you notice leaks and curling shingles, your roof might be nearing its age.
Although America loves shingle roofs, metal roofs are increasing in popularity because of their durability and energy efficiency. A metal roof may cost around $40,000 in return for a 60.9% boost in home value.
Addressing roof drainage is also essential. A roof should be installed with sufficient drainage to avoid structural damage from rainwater, snow melt, and ice. These are all important points to consider when replacing your roof.
Vinyl Siding:
Have you always had that classic wood siding? Well, now is the time to let it go. Wood siding is high-maintenance and susceptible to water damage. It can also be expensive to repair. So, from a potential buyer’s point of view, the maintenance is a turnoff. Vinyl siding, on the other hand, is low-maintenance and more durable. Plus, it comes in various colors and styles to suit any home. Replacing your old, worn-out siding with new vinyl siding will give your home an instant facelift. In addition, you can choose from different siding materials, such as insulated vinyl, which has extra insulation to reduce energy costs.
In terms of ROI, expect your vinyl siding to get you a 76.7% return. Your home’s siding is a long-term commitment, so you want to make sure you choose wisely.
Deck and Patio Installations:
Outdoor living spaces are an ideal way to extend your living space. If you’re missing a deck or patio, now is the time to consider one. Deck and patios are great for entertaining, barbecuing, and enjoying the outdoors. You can also add features like fire pits, seating areas, and outdoor kitchens to elevate your living space.
When installing a deck or patio, consider the materials you’ll use. Pressure-treated wood is a popular choice because of its affordability. It is also resistant to decay and insect damage, making it a great option for outdoor living spaces.
Composite materials are becoming the go-to option because of their durability and low maintenance needs. These are made of wood and plastic fibers, making them more resistant to moisture damage. Having the right deck or patio installed can give you up to a 90% return on your investment.
Build a Shed:
How well you utilize your outdoor space says a lot about your property. If you have a big backyard, don’t let the space go to waste! A shed is ideal for adding extra storage space or even creating an outdoor office or workshop. You can spice it up with a gazebo or pergola to make the shed more inviting and visually appealing. Best of all, attaching a gazebo to your home can increase your home’s value by up to 77%. Experts claim that’s even more than a kitchen remodel!
But which type of shed should you build? Well, metal sheds are popular because they’re durable and require minimal maintenance. But wooden sheds are the way to go if you want something that looks more like a home. They can also be painted or stained for a more personal touch. You can also add shingles, windows, and doors to make the shed as functional and stylish as you like.
Install a New Garage Door:
Most properties have rustic garage doors that are old and outdated. They creak and squeak, making it difficult to open and close them. That’s a dent in your property’s curb appeal. But replacing the garage door with a modern and stylish version can give your home an instant facelift.
Modern garage doors are made of vinyl, steel, and aluminum. These materials are durable and require minimal maintenance. In addition to that, they come in different styles and colors to match the exterior of your home. It doesn’t take much effort, but it can give you up to an 87% return on investment.
You can install windows on your garage door too. They will let in natural light and make the space feel more open. In addition, there are smart garage doors you can control with your smartphone, which is a unique selling point when selling a home.
Landscaping:
Landscaping is among the first things people notice when driving to your home. If it’s overgrown and disorganized, that’s a red flag. Not to mention, it can invite pests and diseases onto your property. That’s why it’s important to keep the landscaping well-maintained.
Start by trimming shrubs and trees regularly. It will help keep them healthy and give your home a neat look. You can also add new plant beds to scatter some color around the property. Consider planting flowers, shrubs, and trees that are indigenous to your area. It will make it easier to care for them, and they’ll thrive better in the climate. Adding a water feature is also a great way to upgrade your landscaping. So, consider a fountain or pond for a more sophisticated look.
You can also add some outdoor lighting to your landscape to make it more inviting. It will make your property look beautiful at night and also increase security.
Conclusion:
Exterior home improvement projects can take some time and be a little pricey, but they are worth the investment. Since you can’t afford to mess with features as important as roofing and siding, you must only work with an experienced and certified exterior home improvement contractor.
However, before you sign any contract, make sure you know exactly what you want and the cost associated with it. It’s also important to get quotes from different contractors so you can compare and make an informed decision.
Remember, improving the home’s exterior is key to making it look beautiful and boosting its value.