Home renovation is an exciting process. But it can also be overwhelming if you don’t plan well beforehand. Whether you’re planning your budget or picking the right materials, there are many factors to consider when giving your home exterior a makeover.
With the right guidance, you can ensure that your renovation project will be a success. In this quick guide, we’ll look at some of the best tips for a successful home renovation, including some for residents of Houston, Texas. So, let’s get started!
1. Assess Your Home’s Current Condition
Before getting started, it’s essential to take a good look at your home’s current condition and plan accordingly. This will help you stay in line with your budget and project scope.
Check for signs of exterior damage, such as cracked paint, eroded siding, and worn-out windows. This will help you determine what needs to be replaced or repaired.
You should also take a look at the landscaping and outdoor areas. Are there any areas that could be enhanced to improve the home’s curb appeal? Plants and flowers can give a big boost to your home’s overall appearance.
By assessing the home’s current condition, you’ll be better prepared for the next step.
2. Research Your Home’s Exterior Design
Take a couple of hours to research the architectural style of your home. Knowing the style of your home can help you choose the right materials and colors for your renovation project. Is it a traditional colonial or a modern ranch-style? Are there any classic features, such as wood shutters or stone accents?
What about the home’s exterior color palette? Do you want to stay true to the home’s original color scheme or create something completely new? Bold color accents on doors or window shutters can bring an old house to life.
3. Create a Detailed Plan
Start by making a list of all the tasks that need to be completed. This should include everything from painting and staining to replacing windows and installing new fixtures.
Next, you’ll need to create a timeline. Estimate how long each task will take and plan accordingly. Make sure to factor in any delays or unforeseen circumstances.
Finally, you’ll need to make a budget. Research the cost of materials and labor to get an accurate estimate of the total cost.
4. Select the Right Contractor
If you don’t have the time or the skills to tackle the makeover yourself, you’ll need to hire a contractor to carry out the work for you. Choosing the right person or company is an essential factor in a successful project, so don’t just choose the first listing you find.
Ask for references and read reviews from previous clients to make sure that the contractor is professional and reliable. Make sure to get multiple bids to compare prices and services.
Once you’ve selected a contractor, it’s important to create a detailed contract. Include everything from payment schedules to timelines and deadlines.
5. Choose Quality Materials
Make sure to choose materials that are durable and easy to maintain. In addition, think about how the total cost of materials will fit into your overall budget. Don’t just look at the unit price. For example, a larger, more premium paving stone may be cheaper overall than a smaller one with a lower cost per unit.
Cheaper materials aren’t always better. They may break down more quickly over time, leading to greater maintenance costs. In worst-case scenarios, you may be forced to replace poor-quality materials. So, make sure you consider the potential cost of a product over its lifetime.
This is especially true if you live in Houston, Texas. It’s crucial to choose materials that can withstand the hot, humid summers and increasingly colder winters. Ask for recommendations from an experienced contractor and choose materials that are durable in all seasons and resistant to fading and wear and tear.
It’s also important to consider the area’s hurricanes and flooding. Make sure to choose materials that are hurricane-resistant and flood-proof, to increase the longevity of your home and protect your family.
6. Choose What Exterior Features Need Updating
- Replace or repaint your garage door
- Add color accents to windows or shutters
- Replace wooden siding with a more durable option like fiber cement
- Replace the roof shingles with a more durable material
- Build a porch or update your current one
- Refurbish your driveway with new pavers or surfacing materials
- Add lighting accents to the house façade
- Add or replace the fence around your property
Final Thoughts
Renovating your home’s exterior can be an exciting and rewarding process. But it can also be a challenging prospect if you don’t prepare well beforehand.
Upgrades can range from quick and affordable to lengthy and expensive. Make sure you talk to a trustworthy contractor beforehand to decide how big of a project to tackle.
Ready for an exterior makeover project?
Why not get in touch with us for a free estimate? You can also go through these helpful tips and resources to learn more about remodeling.
