As the saying goes, there’s no second chance to make a first impression. The front entrance of your home is your first impression to visitors, to neighbors or simply those walking and driving by. And – when the time comes to sell – potential buyers.
Remodeling your home’s entryway is one of the best ways to invest your home improvement dollar. Here are 11 tips on how to improve your curb appeal, ranging from the simple DIY to bigger impact remodeling projects.
1. New house numbers
Replace your standard house numbers with new, more attractive ones. When people are looking for your house, the numbers are one of the first things they see, so for a relatively low investment, replacing the numbers can make a significant impact.
2. Replace door hardware
Take a good look at the handles, knobs, kickplates, etc., on your door. We all get used to not seeing our front door because we’re using it all the time, and those features can be worn or outdated. It’s also a good opportunity to add some technology with an electronic lock with a touchpad or other security features.
3. A new door
Maybe it’s time for a new door, replacing a standard builder door with an upgraded, high-end model. In Remodeling magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report, replacing the front door is one of the remodels with the best return on your investment. Integrating windows, etched glass or sidelites can drastically change the look of your entryway.
4. Repaint the door
If your door is solid and you like the design, then repainting can add a pop of color to set the door apart from the rest of the neighborhood.
5. Paver walkway
The walkway up to your home is important, too. If you don’t have one or it is just simple concrete, a new walkway of pavers, brick or stone can really help your home stand out.
6. Path lighting
Don’t forget lighting along the walkway. There are unlimited choices, but one eco-friendly option is solar-powered lights that absorb sunlight during the day to illuminate your path at night.
7. Front door lighting
Speaking of lighting, new fixtures around your front door can alter the look of your home at a relatively low cost – not to mention improving safety as well. Opt for LED bulbs and save significantly on energy costs.
8. Add decorative trim or moulding
Installing new moulding around your door is one of the fastest ways to give the home a facelift. There are a variety of options available including low-maintenance composite trims that will last for years with little upkeep.
9. Add a front porch
Ready to make a big impact? If you’ve got the room, adding a front porch to your home will drastically change the look. It also offers practical benefits, giving visitors protection from the elements and offering an additional space for entertaining. Adding seating and ceiling fans, or screening in the space will offer plenty of opportunities to grow your outdoor living.
10. Opt for a portico
If a front porch won’t work for your budget or doesn’t fit into the neighborhood or property, opting for a portico instead can make a lot of sense. A portico is a smaller, covered entrance for the front door that helps to accentuate the entryway. It offers some of the protection of a patio, without the extensive seating or entertainment area.
11. Columns
Whether opting for a porch or a portico, or just upgrading an existing structure, columns can help your entryway stand out. You don’t have to just use wood anymore, either. There are a huge variety of lower-maintenance columns on the market, including fiberglass, PVC column wraps and more. Unlike wood these materials will offer protection from moisture and insects, and many carry a lifetime warranty.
Ready to improve the curb appeal of your home? T.W. Ellis is here to help you spruce up the inside and outside of your home. Contact us today to discuss your remodeling needs!
