Imagine spending a beautiful summer evening on your well-manicured lawn, resting on a comfortable wicker chair, and admiring your brightly painted front door. Delightful, isn’t it? Now, imagine bagging compliments from your neighbors on how stunning your home’s exterior is. That’s a dream of every ‘invested’ homeowner. They want to know that their money is well-spent and the exterior of their home reflects its value. After all, spending in Portland requires skill, considering the 24% higher cost of living compared to the US average.
How can you live that dream and make sure that your Portland home stands out from the rest? What are some fail-proof ways to boost your home’s curb appeal? Read on as we list simple yet effective ideas to make your home look its best!
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Replace the Siding
Your house’s siding is like its clothing, and you wouldn’t keep wearing the same outfit year after year. So don’t let your home settle for outdated siding. Homeowners in Portland need to be extra cautious. The bug problem is quite serious in some areas, and if you keep the same siding for too long, it could become riddled with holes.
So, what material should you choose?
Well, it depends on your home’s style and your taste. Of course, your budget matters too. Vinyl siding is a popular choice among homeowners. It’s easy to install, inexpensive, and durable. If your tastes are slightly more upscale, go for brick or stone veneer. Yes, it’ll cost you a pretty penny. But it’s timeless and can bump your home’s value.
Wood siding works too. It gives a rustic look. For a low-maintenance and cost-effective option, consider fiber cement siding.
Regardless of what material you choose, we recommend getting in touch with a Portland siding replacement company to ensure that the job is done right.
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Paint the Exterior
Do your walls look faded? Are there ugly spots of mildew? Is the color of your home too dull? If so, it’s time for a paint makeover! Painting your exterior is an instant facelift that will breathe new life into your home. However, you must know a few things before you pick a roller and get started.
First, the type of paint you choose will depend on the kind of climate you live in. A warm, sunny climate requires a paint that can withstand high temperatures and exposure to the sun. Since Portland averages 144 sunny days per year, you should look for paint with UV protection. Acrylics or elastomeric paint is your best bet.
Next is the color. Grey, beige, and white are all classic choices. But for a more modern look, you can go with bold colors like blues and greens. Don’t overdo it, though. You want to maintain a uniform look that complements the rest of your landscape.
Finally, pay special attention to any wood trim, like shutters or porch railings. A coat of paint can give these areas a fresh look and make your home even more inviting.
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Get a New Front Door
Imagine the impression a chipped, faded, or rusty door will make on your guests. And no, when your front door is past its prime, wreaths and door decor can’t really make up for it.
So, if your main door has seen better days, let it rest. Invest in a new, high-quality one, and you’ll have guests saying “wow” before they even step in.
Most homeowners prefer solid wood. It lasts a long time and is quite energy-efficient. Plus, when you stain it, the figures of the wood grain come to life and look great.
There are some easy-on-the-pocket alternatives too. Fiberglass doors, for instance, are often good imitations of natural wood. They are also a clear winner in terms of resistance to sun exposure. Fiberglass doors don’t even warp or rot.
If you think your front door can easily live a few more years, just touch it up a bit with some fresh paint. It’s one of the quickest and most affordable ways to spruce up your home’s entrance.
Choose a pop of color that stands out from the rest of your home’s exterior. Deep reds, blues, and greens all look great as front door colors.
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Maintain Your Landscaping
Untrimmed shrubs, weeds, and untidy flower beds can steal away the curb appeal of any home. That’s why you must keep your landscaping neat and tidy.
Edge your flower beds, trim your hedges, and plant flowers that give off a sense of warmth and welcome to passing guests. Fragrant lavenders, showy hydrangeas, and bright tulips are all great options for a pop of color in your garden.
You can also pot some stunning bonsai trees or dwarf evergreens to add beauty and depth to your home.
Mix and match your landscaping with a few touches of outdoor art. Try repurposing some old items like an old bike or rusty wheelbarrow for a bit of character. Remember, whatever you do, must resonate with the style of your home.
If you have a window box, take advantage of it! Window boxes are a great way to add charm and character to the outside of your home. You can also plant some small succulents, herbs, or flowers in them.
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Light It Up
You simply can’t undermine the power of strategic lighting. It highlights the architectural details of your home. Strategic lighting also makes your home look larger.
Solar outdoor lighting is the best choice. It serves the purpose while conserving energy and money in the long run. Add them along your walkways, driveway, and outdoor stairs.
Pathway lights are also great. They help visitors find their way to the front door. You can line the pathway with solar-lit lanterns or the edges with recessed lighting that provides both subtle illumination and a natural look.
If you’re worried about the cost, you can always opt for DIY lighting projects. Mason jar lights are an excellent option that’s easy to install and adds a quirky touch to your outdoor décor. You can hang them from trees or fences along pathways.
Lighting up your outdoors doesn’t only make your home look cozier and more inviting but also adds a layer of security. Strategically placed lights can act as deterrents for burglars and help you keep an eye on suspicious activity.
Conclusion
When it comes to making a positive first impression of your home, the external visual appeal of your house plays an important role. Curating the right kind of outdoor décor can greatly impact how visitors perceive your home. If you want your house to stand out, follow the above-mentioned tips and enjoy watching your visitors ooh and aah!
Remember, there’s a lot more you can do to bring out the best in your home’s exterior. So, do your research, get creative, and give your house the attention it deserves.