Improving Your Curb Appeal

Your home should be your sanctuary. It should be where you can go to relax. It should be somewhere you are proud to live. That is why when the exterior is run down, either due to how the previous owners treated it or simply due to wear and tear, you should take a weekend to spruce it back up. You can be proud of your home no matter your budget, and here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Your Exterior

The exterior of your home should be your first priority when it comes to improving your curb appeal. One of the first steps you should take is to hire a power-washer and clean off the dirt on the exterior. Once you have cleaned your property, you can either let it be or repaint it for a fresh new look. Whatever you choose to do, the surface needs to be clean first.

Your Landscaping

Landscaping can make a huge difference on the curb appeal of your property, but you don't have to go all out if that's beyond your budget. Redoing the lawn can do wonders, even if it's just adding lawn seed. If you do want to try your hand at landscaping, draw out a design and take it to your local garden nursery, as they will be able to help you out with which plants are ideal for your property.

Your Driveway

Your driveway likely takes up a lot of prime real estate on your property, which is why when it is broken, stained, or otherwise ugly, it can severely bring down the overall quality of your home. Choosing which driveway is adequate for your property will depend on your preferences, budget, and location:

1. Concrete

   Concrete is a very popular option for many reasons. It is typically very durable - especially when you use Pavement Planet best concrete driveway sealer to prevent common stains early on - affordable, and requires the least maintenance. It is ideal if summers get very hot where you live, as the concrete reflects light more than asphalt, and costs less than brick or cobblestone options. It is also great for kids to play on, as it is a smooth surface and can be drawn on with chalk.

2. Asphalt

   Asphalt is another popular driveway option, mostly due to its low price. It does, however, crack regularly and if you want to keep it that beautiful black color, you will have to redo the surface every few years.

3. Gravel

   Gravel is the cheapest option you can go for. It is ideal for rural areas where you might have a road or long driveway on your property, but not for properties in residential neighborhoods.

4. Cobblestone or Brick

   These options can be very expensive, but they are the most intricate. Cobblestone and brick can be made into interesting patterns and are very durable - if cracks or breaks occur, this can either add to the appeal or easily be switched out.

You deserve to be proud of where you live, and with a little can-do attitude and some weekend projects, you can have a home you are proud of in no time.