Your home is your palace, so it should be beautiful, right? There are many ways to enhance your property's curb appeal through high-impact, high-value home improvements.
Start your remodel by identifying an experienced Connecticut contractor to do the work. Working with a good contractor can help ensure the work is done professionally, elegantly, and effectively.
Replace Siding
Siding lasts a long time, but when it nears the end of its service life, curb appeal can suffer. Faded, warped siding is an eyesore that can put your home at risk of water damage and other problems. Replacing siding can give your house a new aesthetic that makes your home modern and attractive.
- Consider a new siding material: You don't have to replace old siding with the same thing. Modern siding comes in a range of materials and can give your home an all-new style.
- Prioritize durability: Connecticut winters are cold and harsh. Materials like engineered wood, insulated vinyl, and fiber cement are popular on New England homes because they easily withstand freezing temperatures.
- Choose quality over cost-savings: Buy quality siding that will last for decades after installation.
Your contractor can provide advice to help you find siding that looks great and protects your home from harsh weather. Talk to your contractor about your preferred siding material to get guidance and advice.
Paint Siding
Wood siding requires regular painting or staining. If it's been more than five years since you last painted your home, it may be time.
Light colors fade less and may be better for your home's energy efficiency, while darker colors add an element of drama to your home. Want the best of both worlds? Consider a light-colored siding and dark, high-contrast trim.
Having difficulty choosing a paint color? Here are some suggestions:
- Take a drive around your neighborhood. Consider colors that fit in with other homes on your street, but avoid choosing a color that is exactly like your neighbors.
- Talk to a color expert. Your contractor may be able to connect you with someone who recommends paint colors professionally.
Add a Deck, Patio, or Porch
Adding a deck, patio, or porch creates useful outdoor space while also making your home more inviting. During the planning phase, consider material durability, longevity, and maintenance requirements. Materials like composite wood last longer than natural wood and require less maintenance.
Before meeting with contractors, create some goals for your project. Will you use it for entertaining? Barbecuing with family? Receiving guests? Should it be enclosed or open-air? How many people should fit on it comfortably?
Consider bonus features that will make your space more functional and enjoyable, like power outlets, light fixtures, outdoor kitchens, ceiling fans, heat sources, and more.
Replace Front Door
Your home's front door is the feature guests and visitors focus on first when they arrive at your home. Replacing your front door is a way to make your home look more inviting and charming. Choose a door that matches your home's architectural style, with colors that complement your home's exterior.
Front doors can be a significant source of energy loss, so consider energy efficiency when selecting a door for your home. There are many low-cost doors on the market, but these products are less likely to deliver value and may age poorly. Select a door that is made from high-quality materials.
Considering a front door with a large window? Glass adds light to your home, but allows anyone standing at your door to see inside. Strike a balance with dual-pane frosted glass that lets natural light in while maintaining your privacy.
Enhance Driveway & Pathways
Old driveways and pathways have a way of dragging down your home's curb appeal. One way to update your home's appearance is to replace these features with high-end materials like bricks or rustic pavers. If installing pathways, consider their purpose and flow. Install paths where they're needed to make walking on your property easier.
Some additional tips:
- Install lighting to make the area safer, especially around stairs.
- Avoid stones or pavers that will get icy during Connecticut winters.
- Consider logistics. Do you need a wider driveway for additional cars, or a turnaround for extra convenience?
Replace Garage Door
You'd be amazed how different a house can look with a new garage door. Old garage doors often lack character, but modern garage doors come in a range of styles. From classic carriage-style doors to contemporary frosted glass options, there's something for everybody. Choose a door that matches your home's aesthetic and personal style.
Restore Historic Charm
Do you live in a historic home? Tap into your home's true potential by restoring historic charm. Use period-appropriate materials and consider paint colors that were common when your home was built. Consider researching your home in historic societies to see pictures of your home when it was still new. Hire a contractor who has experience working with historically accurate materials.
If possible, preserve older windows. If your windows need replacement, choose windows that match the original style. Install new electrical outlets and other modern features in hidden places to preserve the look and character of your home.
Take Advantage of Free Resources from Litchfield Builders
For 25 years, Litchfield Builders has helped homeowners in Connecticut beautify their homes. To get started with your next remodel, download our free guide to hiring a contractor. You can also check out our remodeling resources or contact us to schedule a consultation.
