When you invest in a home, it is vital to maintain your home’s interior and exterior in order to protect your investment and to also ensure that your curb appeal is intact. Over the years, items on your home can begin to deteriorate and will need to be repaired or replaced.
When it comes to home repair, it is best to be proactive rather than reactive. A leaky roof can cause more problems later, or older windows may contribute to higher energy costs. Learn some of our suggested tips to keep your home’s exterior looking good so that you can keep your investment intact.
1. Replace your roof as soon as it begins to reach its recommended lifespan.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Throughout large regions of the United States, many roofs use shingles that last roughly 15-20 years. Once they reach their recommended lifespan, your roof is at higher risk for damage from high wind or hail damage. A roofing contractor will be able to inspect your roof and advise you on when it needs to be replaced.
Keep in mind, your insurance company might decide to not cover damages if you wait too long to replace your roof. If you live in an area of the country that sees a lot of storm damage, you may want to consider using impact resistant shingles. These impact-resistant products are great for areas with lots of hail storms and snowy weather.
2. Put in newer windows with better insulation.
Many older homes have thin glass windows that are not insulated well, which can contribute to a high energy bill each month whether you are heating or cooling your home. The glass could also be in poor condition thus detracting from the overall appearance of your home.
When it comes to window replacement, you need to choose new windows that will provide you with better insulation, more energy efficiency, and will look beautiful. These days, there are loads of options for windows that will let in more natural light while keeping your indoor temperature intact and they can be made from glass, fiberglass, polymer, and other materials. Types of windows you can install, according to HGTV, include:
- Double-hung windows
- Casement windows
- Awning windows
- Picture windows
- Transom windows
- Slider windows
- Stationary windows
- Bay windows
Once you have had new windows put in by professional window installers, you could even consider upcycling the old windows and creating a window project with them that you can hang on your inside walls or patio. Check out Pinterest for inspiration.
3. Add a fresh coat of paint to your home.
If it has been a while since the outside of your home was painted, it may be time to put on a fresh coat. This will spruce up the appearance of your house instantly and will add value to the home. Generally, depending on the climate of your area, you should repaint your home every 5-10 years.
Fresh paint also helps in preserving the siding or other material used to construct your house. A professional house painter can provide you with a wide array of color choices that match your personality and your landscaping but make sure that the color you choose is approved by your homeowners’ association if you have one. Many may have rules and regulations regarding house colors within the neighborhood.
In between painting, enlist a licensed pressure washing company to clean the outside of your home every now and then to maintain its overall appearance and keep it looking refreshed.
