As any home improvement expert will tell you, the first impression is everything. When potential buyers pull up to your house, they should be able to get a sense of its style and personality. If your home’s exterior is looking a bit dated, there are various updates that can make a world of difference. With just a little bit of effort, you can give your home the curb appeal it deserves. Here are five exterior updates that will take your home to the next level.

1. Paint the Exterior

According to Statista, in 2019, the worldwide market volume of paint and coatings was estimated at almost 10 billion gallons. This goes to show just how important paint is in terms of home design. When choosing a color, be sure to consider the overall style of your home. You’ll also want to ensure that the color you choose compliments your home’s landscaping.

If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of online resources that can help you choose the perfect paint color for your home. Once you’ve selected a color, simply follow the instructions on the paint can, and you’ll be well on your way to giving your home’s exterior a fresh new look. However, if you’re not comfortable painting your home yourself, you can always hire a professional.

2. Storm Proof Your Home

According to the NOAA’s Severe Storms database, there were 3,763 major hailstorms in 2021. These kinds of extreme weather events can cause serious damage to your home’s exterior. To protect your property, it’s important to stormproof your home. This can be done in several ways. Begin by trimming any trees or bushes that are close to your home. This will help to prevent damage from falling branches during a storm.

You should also consider installing hurricane shutters. These can be used to protect your windows from high winds and flying debris. There are various types of hurricane shutters available on the market, so be sure to do your research to find the best option for your home.

Finally, you’ll want to ensure that your gutters are in good condition and free of debris. Clogged gutters can cause serious damage to your roof and foundation, so it’s important to keep them clean.

3. Add Outdoor Lighting

Not only does outdoor lighting make your home more inviting, but it can also help to deter crime. There are various types of outdoor lighting available, so you’ll want to choose the option that best suits your needs.

Solar-powered lights are a great choice if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option. These lights are powered by the sun, so you won’t have to worry about changing batteries or dealing with tangled cords. Another popular option is LED lighting. These lights are extremely energy-efficient and can last for many years. When choosing outdoor lighting, be sure to take into consideration the overall style of your home. You’ll also want to ensure that the lights you choose are weather-resistant.

4. Replace Your Roof

Although most roofs are designed to last for many years, they will eventually need to be replaced. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it will likely need to be replaced soon. Remember, replacing your roof not only adds to your home’s curb appeal but can also help to increase its value. In fact, according to Forbes, a roof replacement will return up to 60% of its value when you sell your home.

If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions, you’ll want to choose a roof that is designed to withstand high winds and heavy rain. Metal roofs are a great choice for this type of climate. If you live in an area with milder weather conditions, you have a bit more flexibility when it comes to choosing a roofing material. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for many homeowners.

5. Install New Siding

Installing new siding is a great way to give your home’s exterior a whole new look. There are many different types of siding available, so you can choose the style that best suits your home. New siding can also help protect your home from the elements and improve its energy efficiency.

These were just the top five home updates to consider. By making these improvements, you can help to increase your home’s curb appeal and value. Remember, if you’re not comfortable tackling these projects yourself, it’s better to hire a professional than risk damaging your home.