We often think about the way our homes look within. After all, the interior design industry is estimated to generate about $10 billion in revenue every year. But there is far more to what makes up a home than the way that it looks on the inside or the structural integrity of its exterior. Exterior design certainly matters as well, and in some ways, it is even more important than interior design.
Exterior design is at times more expensive than interior design and may not need to be updated quite as often. But it’s important that you don’t attempt to handle exterior design issues, like replacement doors and windows, on your own. Rather, you should wait until you can work with professional installers. If you attempt to handle exterior design on your own, you may very well find yourself saddled with expensive repairs. In the long term, these could cost more than working with professionals in the first place.
With that in mind, your goal should be to add value to your home. Let’s look into some of the best ways to update the exterior of your home and ensure that your house is putting its best foot forward. The more updated and aesthetically pleasing your home is, the more valuable it will be.
1. Replace Your Windows
There are a lot of reasons why you may want to contact professional installers about changing your home’s windows. Windows do generally need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years, depending on the window types involved and what the window frames are made of. For example, vinyl windows may actually last longer than wood windows, as they are more resistant to the elements and rot. Windows that have been damaged following weather events would obviously need to be replaced prematurely.
But in general, you may also want to explore changing your home’s windows in order to alter the appearance of your house. Windows are often referred to as a home’s “eyes”, and changing your windows can actually change the appearance of your home’s exterior in a big way. You’ll need to look into your development rights and what they permit, but you may very well be allowed to alter the shape and size of your windows. Typically speaking, you should think about budgeting around $200-$500 per window, though your budget may need to extend depending on how many windows you want to replace and what you would like to replace them with.
2. Install New Entry Doors
Much like windows, your doors can actually make your entire house look different. Over time, entry doors can be exposed to a great deal of water, and depending on what material the doors are made of, you may have to replace them sooner rather than later. Wood doors are highly valued due to their classic appearance, but wood is porous. This means that it can absorb liquid, and therefore experience rot. Additionally, wood doors can expand or warp over time, ultimately looking very different over the years.
Entry doors can be replaced and updated, often without necessarily changing the appearance of the doors overly much if you’d rather not do that and simply want an update. Steel doors are favored by some due to their durability but are prone to rust. Like vinyl windows, vinyl doors often last much longer and are relatively cost-efficient.
3. Add Sliding Doors
Sliding patio doors can actually expand the overall sense of space in your home. Technically, you can add sliding glass doors to your home whether or not you have a patio. These doors can let in natural light while making it easier for you to spend time outside.
Even during the winter months, sliding glass doors allow you to have a visual connection with your exterior property. Although it’s important to have professional installers control the installation of these doors, as they can easily be installed incorrectly, they’re ultimately worth the investment.
Don’t hesitate to contact professional installers about updating the exterior of your home. Ultimately, you’ll be glad that you took this step and gave your house a whole new look.
