Four Exterior Upkeep Ideas to Add Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home says a lot about you, and a house that looks shabby and run-down isn’t going to make a good first impression on anybody. This month, take a little time to easily and inexpensively add some curb appeal to your home.

Make windows shine. While it might not seem like window washing would make a big impact, a good cleaning inside and out is actually a great way to brighten your home and freshen things up. With many windows now designed to tilt in, cleaning them is easier than ever. Washing the exterior of windows on upper floors that aren’t accessible from the inside is a little trickier but can generally be done fairly easily with the use of a telescoping pole.

Blast away dirt. Dirt buildup can really make your driveway and sidewalks look grungy. Take care of this problem by using a power washer to wash off accumulated dirt and debris. Avoid power washing siding, however, as this could damage the finish and force water under the siding, leading to moisture damage. Instead, clean siding using soapy water or a mixture of water and TSP. Wash with a soft long-handled brush, then rinse with a garden hose.

Refresh porches and decks. The wooden structures around your home – decks, porches, gazebos, etc. – need to be cared for as well. Not only will this keep them looking their best for curb appeal, it also protects them from decay. To revive your porch or deck, start by repairing any damaged areas. If your deck is dirty but the finish is still in good shape, a good deck cleaner should be all you need to get rid of dirt and grime and make it look like new. If your deck or porch still looks worn and faded after a good cleaning, refresh it with a couple coats of stain after it has dried.

Spruce up the front door. Your front door is one of the first things the eye is drawn to as visitors approach your home, so it needs to stand out. Applying a fresh coat of paint in an eye-catching color and updating the hardware are great ways to make over your door. If the current paint job is in good shape and you don’t want to repaint, give the door and the surrounding entryway a good wipe-down to remove dirt and cobwebs. Add a colorful seasonal wreath and some potted plants or flowers, and you’ll have the perfect combination for welcoming guests to your home.

Trust Your Home to Callen

For more ideas on how to improve your home’s curb appeal, Call Callen at 414-765-2585. From window replacement to other types of home exterior remodeling, we have the experience necessary to make your home look its best.