Tips for a Facade Upgrade

Lifestyle Whether you’re looking to refresh your exterior’s appearance, add character, or create a more welcoming atmosphere, there are various ways to improve your home’s overall look.

Use the tips in this guide to help you elevate its curb appeal.

Apply a fresh coat of paint

Painting is one of the easiest ways to pump new life into your home’s appearance. You can redo the entire exterior, add an accent color to the trim, or simply change its shade—any of which will make a big impact.

Change the front door

Besides painting it, you can swap out your door entirely. Your home’s architectural style will likely influence your choice of replacement. Consider a contemporary design with larger glass panels, or select solid wood for a timeless, classic look.

Enhance the walkway

Even if your walkway is in good shape, you can rejuvenate its look. For instance, you can replenish the mulch, plant fresh shrubs, and add potted plants and vibrant flowers to boost its appeal significantly.

Fix the driveway

The driveway is a focal point of any property. If yours is cracked or discolored, resurfacing it, installing pavers, or adding stamped concrete can bring it back to life.

Incorporate weather-resistant artwork

Add a touch of whimsy to your front yard with outdoor artwork. This could include elaborate pieces like water fountains or birdbaths or simpler features like metal agave art, garden figurines, or a decorative bench. To frame your landscape, you can even build or purchase a trellis adorned with vine-like plants and flowers.

Install new shutters

There are various styles of shutters available for almost any type of home. If your current ones are outdated or in bad shape, you can improve your home’s overall look by replacing them with modern ones. You can also enhance their appearance by adding a contrasting trim color.

Perk up the lighting

Upgrade your exterior lighting to highlight your home’s best features, which can be easily accomplished by installing low-voltage or solar lights along your front pathways or incorporating lanterns and chic sconces at your entryway.

Put a new roof

If your roof is aging and showing signs of wear, replacing it with a new one can make a considerable difference in your home’s appearance. There’s a wide range of roof styles to choose from, so be sure to select one that pairs well with your home’s architectural design.

Remodel the front porch

Whether your porch is worn down or simply feels too bland, renovating it is a great way to ensure it’s both functional and visually pleasing. Alternatively, if your roof is dated, you could have it replaced or add a front door awning for a more modest addition.

Replace or repair worn porch railings

Don’t overlook the visual impact—good or bad—that porch railings can bring to the front of your home. If yours show signs of wear, apply a fresh coat of paint or stain to revitalize them. However, if they are beyond repair, now may be the perfect time to consider replacing them.

Resurface concrete steps

Over time, weathering can cause concrete to deteriorate, resulting in cracks and holes that compromise both safety and visual appeal. Resurfacing can repair minor imperfections and create a smoother and more even surface. In addition, you can give your steps an extra special touch by painting them with a pop of color.

Swap out old plantings for new ones

Remove and replace unhealthy or dying plants to revamp your landscaping. Add diversity in terms of size, shape, color, and texture by incorporating elements like ornamental grass, low-growing plants that can function as ground cover, colorful perennials, and a mixture of shrubs and hedges.

Update the windows

You may want to contemplate upgrading or modernizing your windows if they are old. When replacement isn’t feasible, you can enhance their look by installing window grids to give them a contemporary and updated appearance.

Upgrade the gutters

If your gutters are starting to sag, rust, or detach from your home, it could be a sign that it’s time to replace them. Depending on your budget, you can install vinyl gutters or invest in copper ones, which not only offer greater longevity but also add a visually appealing touch to your property.

Use stylish decor

Simple additions to your porch or front steps, such as weather-resistant furniture in accent colors, a decorative rug, and a selection of throw pillows, can create a vibrant curb appeal. Moreover, minor updates like replacing the door handle, house number, and doorbell can further elevate the overall aesthetic of your entryway.

Improving your home’s exterior doesn’t always require a major renovation or spending a ton of money. With a little effort and imagination, you can transform it from eyesore to eye-pleasing.