As spring turns to summer, you probably find yourself enjoying the outdoors more often by spending a little extra time in your yard. Many people take advantage of warmer weather and spruce up their lawn and garden with fresh landscaping and lush new plants. But a dingy exterior can ruin your home’s curb appeal even if the grass is green and your flower garden is blossoming. Unfortunately, replacing big-ticket items like your windows or siding can come with a hefty price tag. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to update your home’s exterior without breaking your budget. If you’re ready to refresh the outside of your home, here are some simple strategies that can make a big impact.
Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
Faded shutters and a drab front door can make your house look less than welcoming, so brighten things up with some new paint. Even if you keep the same color scheme, a fresh coat keeps things looking new and cared for. Classic and neutral is always a safe option, but you may want to consider a new, bright color that stands out. Whatever shade you choose, be sure that you select a high-quality exterior paint to protect against weather damage and general wear and tear.
Deep Clean Every Outdoor Surface
It may seem like your home’s exterior looks worn out because it’s old. But in actuality, dirt and grime may be the number one culprits in making your home look run-down. A good pressure washing can do wonders for your home. Equipment rental may be your best option if purchasing a well-made machine is out of your price range. Don’t stop with your brick and siding. Be sure to clean your garage door, windows, sidewalks, and driveway for the brightest transformation.
Update the Front Entrance Fixtures
For relatively little money, you can swap your current house numbers with new ones for an updated style. Consider mounting them on a plaque or frame beforehand for a bold and modern look. Get creative and move them to a new location on your house to give that feeling of making things different without the hassle of structural changes. Replacing or adding a porch light can also help you achieve a new look with the added benefit of increased safety.
Consider Your Window Treatments
Technically, window treatments like shades, blinds, and curtains are considered interior decorations, but they definitely have an exterior impact. Be careful using patterned curtains, as they can look unappealing from the outside by showing a faded backside or unsightly stitching. Switch out mini blinds for more substantial plantation blinds. If you want to stick with window shades, have them cut professionally to ensure lines are straight and they are square with your windows.
Use Tasteful Decorations
Most of the time, simple is best when it comes to decorating your yard and front porch. Limit decorations in your flower beds and allow the plants to speak for themselves. A simple wreath on your front door can make your home feel alive and welcoming. Try to choose a design that works across several seasons to get the most use out of your creation or purchase. Coordinate with a simple, front door mat in basic, natural colors like taupe, brown, gray, or black. This will keep it from looking faded too quickly and can help camouflage the dirt you wipe off your feet before entering your house. A few potted plants can also give your front porch a cheerful appearance.
With a little time and effort, you can give your home’s exterior a simple yet effective makeover for mere hundreds instead of thousands of dollars. Then, you can be on your way to enjoying the warmer weather with a home that’s a delight to see and show off.
