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Carrying out a renovation on the exterior of your home is a massive project to undertake, but it can also be very rewarding. Whether you want to make your home’s curb appeal better, be more energy-efficient or update the style and character of your property, an exterior renovation can instantly transform the look and feel of your home.
Not only this, but you can also boost its value, so when the time comes to move on and sell the property, you’ll be in the market at a much higher price. With exterior improvements, you make your home stand out on your street and catch the eye (and hearts) of potential buyers, meaning you won’t have to worry about your home not being able to sell.
If you’ve never done a renovation before, it can be an overwhelming task to take on. It is a long and tiring process that is worth the wait and hard work, instantly changing your home into a brand new one!
But, if you’re feeling like you can’t achieve the perfect home for you or feel the process is too daunting, don’t worry because this guide will walk you through every key step to help you get started and make the best decisions for your needs.
Assessing Your Home’s Exterior Needs
Before diving into any renovation, it’s essential to thoroughly assess your home’s exterior. Walk around your property with a critical eye and take note of any areas that have weathered, broken or look unappealing. This will help you to pour some love back into your property to make the outside look flawless.
Watch out for things such as peeling paint, damaged siding, cracked pathways, or aging windows and doors. Getting to grips with these flaws in your home and understanding what needs to be made over, repaired, or completely upgraded helps you to prioritize tasks that need to be done in an order that works best for you. Plus, you can set a realistic budget for your renovation because you will know which areas need an expert and which you can do yourself!
Within this assessment, it’s also important to consider the style and character of your home. A Victorian townhouse will need different materials and design choices compared to a modern bungalow. Considering your home’s style and architecture at all times ensures that any renovations that need to be done actually improve the aesthetics of the property, rather than clash with it.
Planning and Budgeting for Your Renovation
Once you’ve identified the areas to improve, the next step is planning the renovation in detail. This involves deciding which projects you want to tackle immediately, and which can wait until later. You can also create a solid plan that is easy to follow, highlighting what needs to be done and when and ensuring you don’t forget even the tiniest of details.
Setting a clear budget is crucial during this stage, as exterior renovations can quickly become costly if you’re not careful.
It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes if you’re hiring contractors or specialists. Doing your research and seeking recommendations from trusted sources will help you find reliable professionals who can deliver quality work at a fair price. This will help you save money in the long run because you will have a quality fix that lasts for years, avoiding costly repairs.
Enhancing Curb Appeal with Simple Updates
One of the easiest ways to improve your home’s exterior and restore it back to its beautiful glory- or change it completely- is through simple but effective updates. These focus on the curb appeal of your home to make it stand out from the crowd and catch people’s eyes as they wander past.
Putting fresh paint on the walls, trim, or shutters can dramatically improve the look of your home and provide a whole new character to it. Plus, it shows everyone that your home is cared for and well-maintained, which is what gives it the edge when selling to potential buyers. You should also consider landscaping improvements, such as adding flower beds, trimming bushes, or laying down fresh mulch to make a huge and stunning difference.
Another often overlooked element that influences the curb appeal is the front door. A high-quality and properly installed door can serve as a welcoming focal point and even improve energy efficiency.
To be able to achieve a sturdy, long-lasting and beautiful door to brighten your entrance and create an inviting atmosphere, you need experts in your local area. For example, if you’re in or around the Colchester area, you can consult with experienced door fitters in Colchester. Doing this ensures that your door looks spectacular and is fitted securely to provide you with a safe and cozy home.
Choosing the Right Materials
A massive aspect in improving your home’s exterior is choosing the right materials. There is a vast array of materials to choose from for home design, all boasting various textures, colors and designs. This can make it extremely difficult to pick the right option that meets the needs of your home and lifestyle, while complementing the style of home you have and meeting your expectations.
It is a challenging balance and is more than aesthetics. You need to find the perfect balance between durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal. Try using textures and colors you love that are suited to the style of the property- you don’t want to completely change the look of a period home into a modern home because this loses its character and charm. You should also opt for colors that complement the landscape around you.
Upgrading Functional Elements of Your Exterior
Beyond the look of your home, exterior renovations also offer a chance to upgrade functional aspects. This includes improving insulation by replacing old windows and doors, repairing or replacing gutters, and sealing any cracks in driveways or walkways. These improvements can help protect your home from weather damage and reduce energy costs. You can be more energy efficient and sustainable when making your home more functional, allowing you to help save the planet, save money, and feel happier in a safe home.
When considering replacements, opting for high-quality, durable materials will pay off over time. For example, choosing modern windows and doors with good insulation properties can make a significant difference in your heating and cooling bills.
Additionally, ensuring your gutters and drainage systems are working properly will prevent water damage that could lead to costly structural issues further down the line. These changes are usually cheaper than trying to fix damage, decay, or deterioration because these call for a whole upgrade for your home.
Navigating Permits and Regulations
Before you begin any major exterior renovation, it’s important to check with your local council about any permits or regulations that might apply.
Many renovations, especially those involving structural changes, require official approval to ensure safety and compliance with building codes. Being aware of these rules upfront can save you time, money, and legal headaches.
Exterior renovations are a fantastic way to breathe new life into your home and enhance its value. For beginners, the key is to start with a clear plan and realistic expectations. By carefully assessing your home’s needs, setting a budget, and prioritizing projects, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the process more.
