What is the first thing you notice in a house when cycling by it? That’s right, the curb. A well-trimmed lawn, clean driveway, bright front door, and a fresh coat of paint – you can’t hold back the admiration. If that’s how you want your house to be recalled by strangers on the streets, it’s time for a revamping project.

While Pittsburgh’s housing is 7% lesser than the national average โต๊ะ กิน ข้าว ไม้ สัก, the home maintenance costs are not. Pennsylvania actually ranks as the 8th most expensive state for home maintenance. According to Angi, house renovations can cost an average of around $50,000 in the US. And when you’re spending that much money, you’d want to make sure you’re getting the most functional and aesthetic return out of your project.

If it’s your first renovation project as a homeowner, we have some ideas for you. Let’s get the project rolling.

1. Work on That Roof

A house’s roof is the most visible part of it, especially from a distance. And if you don’t want your house to be known as the “house with the bad roof,” we recommend you address its problem areas.

In Pennsylvania, roof repair is the most common home improvement project. Despite its material, Pittsburgh’s heavy winds and frequent rainfall can wreak havoc on your roof. Asphalt roofs can lose shingles, metal roofs can get dents, and slate roofs can crack. All these issues make your roof look unkempt and cause a bad leakage problem in the attic.

If you feel your roof needs replacement, go online and look for a Residential Roof Replacement company near me to find the most reputable contractors in your area. They’ll help you figure out the best roofing material for your home.

2. Return the Sparkle of Your Windows

Dingy and foggy windows can be quite an eyesore. So, if you have any street-facing ones, you must get them back into their prime.

If the old panes are salvageable, clean them. Pick a time when the sun is out and shining bright. Take a ladder or a stable chair and clean all four sides of your windows using a sponge, dishwashing soap, and vinegar solution. Once you’re done, use newspaper to dry the window.

You can also change the style of your windows for a quick and successful makeover. Here are some styles you must consider:

• Hung sash windows – Although old, they are easier to clean and promote great airflow.
• Transom windows – Installed above the main door to allow light to pass.
• Casement windows – Side-hinged ones are more modern and provide more security.
• Bay windows – Give your home a classic look with their multiple panes.

3. Get Rid of That Peeling Paint

A layer of cracked and discolored paint on the walls can make any house look haunted. If you want to keep your house looking chic and modern, it’s time for repainting.

When painting your house, you need to consider two things: the type of paint you use and the color you choose.

Since Pittsburgh experiences humid summers and rainy winters, you need a paint type that can withstand weather changes. 100% acrylic latex paint is the best one. It adheres well to chalky alkyds, vinyl, and aluminum surfaces.

As far as color goes, let your personality shine through in this department. Creams are a classic, whereas sage green looks classy. You can even go bold with shades of blue.

4. Trust the Native Plants

A barren front yard is the worst thing you can do to your curb. It’s unattractive and unsafe. So, plant some life. If you prefer low-maintenance plants, stick to native plants like milkweed and azalea. Black-eyed Susan, Virginia bluebells, and American Holly make great additions too.

For homeowners who prefer more upscale vibes, ornamental grasses, and flowering shrubs are great choices. They require minimal upkeep and look beautiful all year round.

Add accent pieces like landscape boulders and birdbaths to make your yard stand out more. A few potted plants outside the door won’t hurt, either!

5. Light Up the Outdoors

No matter how many exclusive and expensive plants you put in your garden, they won’t create magic unless paired with strategic lighting. You can install spotlights under your bonsais to accentuate their uniqueness or use a floodlight to light up your driveway.

For a more low-maintenance solution, add solar lights to your garden. They look beautiful and don’t need power cords and switches. Just stick them into the soil and let nature take its course.

We recommend using lanterns with tea lights for added rustic charm. Their flickering flame can make the most plain-looking garden come alive.

6. Make Your Front Door Pop

Extend a warm welcome to your guests with a front door that screams, “Hey, come in, please!”

While painting your front door in a bright and bold color seems obvious, it’s not your only option. You can do so much to add personality to it without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas:

• Add seasonal wreaths – acorns and pine cones for autumn, roses, and daisies for the summer.
• Update the hardware – replace the handle, hinges, and majestically accentuate it with a knocker.
• Install sconces on each side – Modern urn-shaped sconces make a statement.
• Invest in an entryway – even if it’s tiny, a bench or console table can do the trick.

You can even add wood art panels to your door’s exterior. They’ll bring life to any ordinary entryway.

Final Words

Boosting your house’s exterior looks can take time. It is why we recommend starting early. Make a list of things you need to do and deal with them one at a time. You must also keep the weather forecast in mind when handling exterior tasks. For instance, painting on a cloudy day won’t give you the best results. Similarly, don’t clean the windows on a windy day. They’ll get dusty again.

The ideas we have shared above are only a few that can help elevate your home’s exterior. If you want to try something else, go ahead. At the end of the day, it’s your home! Good luck.