Most of us pay too much attention to our indoor space and completely neglect the outdoors until summer when we want to spend more time outside. We forget the simple tasks that help keep the house neat and functional. Did you know that your outdoor space contributes to the resale value of your home? According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), professional landscaping can add 15% to 20% to your home’s price tag at the time of resale.
Cleaning your home and staying on top of your maintenance is one way of keeping your home in shape. However, you also want to consider other external parts of your home that require some improvement. In this article, we’ll list three home exterior projects to tackle this year and improve your home’s appearance and overall value.
1. Roof Replacement
Your roof is the crown of your home. This extensive part plays a significant role in showcasing the beauty of your home and protecting your home against storms, ice, and the sweltering sun. That’s why you have to keep it in good condition. If your home’s fairly new, you can expect your roof to live around 15 years more, depending on the material used and the weather in your area. According to SamCar, the three-tab asphalt shingles last between 15 and 20 years.
If you’re replacing your roof, it pays to know the material that was used before and how long it has lived to determine if it’s worth re-installing the same or not. Ask your roofing contractor for all the details and discuss the needed materials. While shingles have been the more common material for years, there are alternatives that offer different benefits! For example, while it[‘s more expensive to install, metal roofing provides insulation and saves you money on your energy bills! It also lasts longer and is more durable.
2. Siding Installation
Another standard part of your home you need to work on is your siding. There are many reasons why your siding may need to be replaced. Apart from age, weather, and normal wear and tear, today’s market offers durable siding with excellent insulation. If you have the time and resources, you may want to consider installing vinyl siding, one of the most durable exterior siding materials available today. It is designed to withstand weather and resist moisture.
It’s also affordable, making it one of the most popular siding materials in many homes. According to this Old House, the average cost of installing vinyl siding ranges between $4.15 to $15.25 per square foot. The type of vinyl siding and style of your home will determine the total cost. For instance, insulated vinyl costs $4 to $12, while clapboard vinyl siding costs 41 and $6. It’s up to you to choose what works for you. Discuss these materials with your contractor, choose a typing, then choose a color! Remember, choosing a trendy color could increase your curb appeal by not just hundreds, but thousands.
3. Driveway Construction
Looking to install a new driveway? You may wonder whether to go with the concrete or asphalt driveway. These two popular materials have their pros and cons. According to House Digest, an asphalt driveway lasts between 15 and 30 years. This value may vary depending on the weather and how you use your driveway. Asphalt is durable, sturdy, neat, and tidy, especially if well-maintained. Concrete driveways are also more durable and require very little maintenance.
The installation cost can go up quickly, but this high investment is offset by low maintenance and durability. A well-constructed concrete driveway can last around 30 years. If you’re on a budget, you can also consider a gravel or brick driveway. Be sure to discuss your needs with your driveway contractor.
Keeping your home’s exterior space in great shape is part and parcel of home ownership. Cleaning your home is a lot of work already, but sometimes you need a bit of extra help for the rest of the house. Parts of the house might require as little as painting to restore their appearance, while others may need some repair work. Just be sure to budget for every project to avoid getting stuck in the process.