Whether you are looking to sell your house or simply increase its overall worth, making a few improvements to its exterior will be able to increase the value of your home. While mowing the lawn and cleaning up the landscaping will make your home more aesthetically pleasing, it is also important to invest in other improvements for its exterior. Below are a few ideas on how to improve the curb appeal of your home.
Roof
Adding dimension and color to your roof can really make a home stand out. Colored roofs are becoming increasingly popular, and these days you can choose any color from black to green, gray to red. If the roof is a focus of your home’s design, then spending a little money to enhance your roof’s look may be wise. Using shingles made out of clay, concrete, or ceramic tiles may cost more than asphalt, but the heavier material lasts for a long time. Plus, there is less maintenance needed for these types of roof materials. This makes them a good choice if you’re looking to stretch the budget, but also ensure that the next owners will have a reliable roof for years to come.
If your home has a lower, simpler roof design, then a major makeover may not be necessary. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, using composite asphalt shingles is a popular choice. They come in a wide range of styles and colors to fit any home’s aesthetic. 90 percent of homes nationwide use asphalt shingles making it the most common roofing material.
If you’re looking to replace or improve the roof, it’s better to rip off the old, then install the new roof. This will allow for any defects to be seen before the new roof is installed.
Siding
If you’re looking to increase your home’s curb appeal, painting or changing the siding can make a huge difference. If your home needs more than a fresh coat of paint and you’re looking to ditch the wood clapboard, updating the siding will be the best choice. Vinyl siding is the most cost-effective choice. It has a whole array of benefits such as its resistance to rot and termites and it’s easy to install. It also comes in many colors, so you’ll be able to pick a color that fits well with the home’s characteristics.
Fiber cement siding is another choice. It is a little more expensive than vinyl, but it is more durable. Brick, stone, and stucco are other materials that are popular for a home’s exterior. These materials are the most solid and durable choice that require very little maintenance, but they are also the most expensive.
Gutters
Gutters are a vital part of your home’s exterior. They protect your siding, windows, doors, and foundation from water damage. Properly functioning gutters are important to your home’s value. If there are any defects in your gutter system, it is better to fix them sooner rather than later.
If you’re looking to replace your gutter system, make sure that it’s properly installed and it’s the right fit for your home. Otherwise, you could risk leaks or clogging to your gutter system. If you’re working with a budget, you may want to consider a vinyl gutter. They are easily installed, durable, and resistant to dents. Another option would be galvanized steel gutters, which are long-lasting and rust free. If you’re willing to put money into your new gutter system, then a seamless gutter system may be right for you. They offer the best protection for your home from leaks and water damage.
Windows
To increase the value of your home, you want to make sure unnecessary costs aren’t flying out your window – literally. Old and outdated windows don’t properly insulate your house, so your heating and air conditioning costs are higher. Installing energy efficient windows is important for increasing value, while also keeping costs down.
Vinyl windows are best if you’re on a budget. They vary in style, price, and energy efficiency rating, which gives you many choices for your home. Fiberglass windows are another option. These are considered better than vinyl because they are sturdier, more energy efficient, and easier to maintain. If you’re willing to spend a little more, fiberglass windows may be a good choice.
These factors impact the first impressions of the home. Implementing some of these ideas to add curb appeal can add serious value to your home. To get the biggest return on investment, consult with a contractor to make sure the work is done right.
The first impression that your home gives off is important for its resale value. Potential buyers can make up their minds within the first few minutes of arriving to the property. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal will help it offer a good first impression before buyers even walk through the door.