We all know the story. With your bathroom needing retiling, boiler replacing and kitchen refitting, it seems that the exterior of the home is the area which gets the least love. At the same time, all of us understand that initial impressions count, and as the first place which comes under scrutiny, the facade needs to be faultless. Time to get your game face on then, with these; our 4 upgrades to your home’s exterior IDEAL for adding value.
RAISE THE ROOF
It seems such an integral part of the home, in appearance and structural composition, that any edits or refits of the roof seem a most daunting task indeed. But making changes, even if it’s just a repaint, or as drastic as a whole new material going up, will change the whole look of your house considerably. Generally, you probably won’t need planning permission to replace the roof, but you might want to check that out before you start. If you’re thinking about making further changes, then updating the guttering and downpipes will also have a big impact. This can be costly and time-consuming, so be prepared – this is no simple fix, but a worthwhile one if you’re looking to add value to your home.
WINDOW REINVENTION
As important as the roof, changing your windows can really alter the personality of your home. Again, it’s generally possible to fit replacement windows, change the shape and size of the opening, and add new ones without seeking planning permission. However, if your home is in a protected area or your property is a period one you’ll need to check these requirements scrupulously. Replacement windows also have to comply with building regulations, so bear all the bureaucracy in mind well before you start getting your hands dirty. To get a good idea of what’s out there and at what cost, Timber Windows Direct have a good selection that can be ordered online along with expert advice at hand for those more technical enquiries.
FACADE FLOURISHES
It’s not just bricks’n’mortar. Homes have all kinds of exterior finishes, ranging from a render, cladding, pebbledash or a series of mismatched bricks and more. Change the look of your home completely by removing what’s there or simply covering it up with a different material. After all, the facade is the first thing that gets seen.
The cheapest makeover would be to refresh the outside using masonry paint. If the brickwork that’s there is damaged, rendering it first and then repainting might be a better option. If you want a more contemporary look, then cladding is the most popular, effective way to make a dramatic difference. And it bears repeating; you need to check with your local council to ensure your changes meet regulations.
Can I really paint my house any colour, we hear you ask? Well, the renovation experts at The Times suggest permission should be sought, adding that ”Painting the exterior of the house a noticeably different colour will likely require permission.As indicated, the application might also be required to cover the new windows — confirmation should be sought from your local planning authority.”
FEELING BRAND NEW
Perhaps the best and most cost-effective way to improve the exterior of your home is to put a little extra effort into catching up on the maintenance. A basic cleanup will go a long way towards brightening up the exterior of your home and improving its kerb appeal.
Give the paths and driveway a power wash, mow the lawn and give the exterior a fresh coat of paint. Mulch the flower beds and add hanging baskets, window boxes and pots filled with colorful and attractive plants. It shouldn’t take longer than a day, two at the most, and is certainly much less of an undertaking than the reinventions mentioned earlier in the article. If you just want to spend a couple of hours doing it, then repaint the front door and add a new welcome mat, too.