Have you ever looked at your house from a distance? What did you think? Did it look like it belonged on the cover of Vogue Magazine? Nope? Let’s change that.
We all deserve a home that gets full points for appearance. And so, curb appeal really matters. The best part is that updating your home’s exteriors will boost its value by 3-5%. Easily!
Considering the stormy seasons of Aurora, Illinois, the areas that need the most attention are the roof and siding. You may have spent a small fortune on your house, but if you don’t keep an eye out for these two factors, you might not like what they turn into in just a few years.
You should also show some TLC to your landscaping, windows, and doors.
How?
Let’s find out the answers in this blog post.
Table of contents
Roofing Upgrades
You may think of a roof as just a functional element of your home, but it’s actually a lot more. It’s a trendsetter for your home’s overall look that boosts the value by $12000 to $15000. Plus, it’s the first line of defense against Mother Nature’s tantrums. Leaks, storm damage, pests – it deals with them all.
If you notice broken shingles, missing granules, and rust spots, you need a new roof.
For better lasting, replace asphalt shingles with metal roofing or upgrade to air-purifying shingles that eliminate pollutants.
Pick colors and styles that suit your home’s architectural design. For instance, if you own a traditional-style house, wood shake shingles could give it an elegant touch. Similarly, metal roofing works well for modern and contemporary homes.
Get in touch with the renowned Aurora roofing company to help you make the right choice and carry out the installation process seamlessly.
Siding Makeovers
Siding is like icing on the cake – it gives your house character and keeps things cozy indoors. It also serves as the first impression for potential buyers. So, why not make it stand out?
Firstly, determine whether you want to repair or replace the siding. If there are only a few damaged pieces, you can easily get them fixed (DIY works, too). But if there’s extensive damage, like warping, fading, or rotting, it’s time for new siding.
Vinyl and fiber cement are go-to options as they’re cost-effective and low-maintenance. Plus, you can choose from various finishes like wood-grain texture and smooth finish to suit your taste. Fiber cement has the added advantage of being highly durable and resistant to pests and fire.
Landscaping Love
Sprucing up your landscaping is more than just mowing your lawn and planting a rose bush. It’s about striking a balance between beauty and functionality.
When it comes to choosing plants, go native! Purple Coneflower, Prairie Dropseed, and the Black-Eyed Susan are all good choices. They look stunning and thrive in Aurora’s climate. Make sure to also add some greenery, like ferns or hostas, for a pop of color.
Get creative with your plant placement, too – mix and match different heights, colors, and textures for a dynamic and visually captivating landscape.
Other than plants, you can also add hardscaping elements like a stone pathway or wooden deck to give your home some texture and dimension.
Lighting Matters
What happens when the sun goes down? Does your home give off eerie vibes? You need to work on that.
Outdoor lighting isn’t just about showing off your gorgeous home to the nocturnal creatures (though we bet the raccoons would be impressed). It’s also about safety and adding a touch of magic.
Consider installing solar-powered path lights along your driveway or walkway, adding string lights to your patio, or illuminating your entryway with a stylish wall sconce.
Don’t forget about spotlights to highlight the unique features of your house, maybe that antique weather vane or your enviable rose bushes. So, let there be light!
Just make sure not to go overboard, as too much light can be harsh and unflattering.
Door Decor
Think of your front door as the entrance to your home’s personality – it should reflect your style and make a statement.
Repainting is an easy, budget-friendly way to give your front door a fresh look. Go for a bold color that complements the rest of your exterior, like bright yellow, navy blue, or deep red.
You can also add some flair with unique hardware and accessories, such as a decorative knocker or colorful doormat. Seasonal wreaths, potted plants, and hanging baskets can also add a welcoming touch.
And don’t forget to keep it clean – no one wants to be greeted by a dusty, cobweb-covered door. Give it a good wipe-down every now and then to maintain its appeal.
Fresh Coat of Curb Appeal
Here’s the most cost-effective yet most impactful way to enhance your curb appeal – a fresh coat of paint!
Painting the exterior of your house can drastically improve its appearance and increase its value. It’s also an opportunity to fix any minor damages, like cracks or peeling paint.
The most crucial aspect here is choosing the right palette. Consider using two-tone color schemes for a modern, stylish look. Perhaps a crisp white for the body and a vibrant teal for the trims? Or how about a deep, moody charcoal grey with a punchy red door?
Also, remember that when it comes to paint, quality really matters. Go for high-grade, weather-resistant options that’ll withstand the fickle Aurora weather.
And hey, if you’re not the DIY type, hire a pro. They’ve got the ladders, the sprayers, the drop cloths, and most importantly, they’ll save you from paint in your hair!
Wrapping Up Your House’s Red Carpet Look
It’s clear that enhancing your home’s curb appeal is not just about vanity but creates a warm, welcoming vibe that extends beyond your front yard. Whether you’re looking to sell or simply want to make your home a more lovely place to return to each day, these tips are a fantastic way to add charm and character.
So, roll up your sleeves, let your creative juices flow, and get started on turning your house into the belle of the block! Plus, remember, every home has its own personality, and the best enhancements accentuate its unique features.
Now, isn’t it exciting to think of what your home’s ‘after’ photo will look like?