Your property’s exterior sets the tone for the rest of the house. Plus, it can be a great reflection of your sense of style.
Who doesn’t like freshly painted gates, a garden blooming with bright colors, and a cozy patio anyway? But the reality is usually more like weakened wood on the facades, chalky walls, moldy pathways, and discolored window frames. These can make even the nicest houses unattractive.
It is specifically so if you live in a humid climate like Baton Rouge. The trapped moisture in such climates can cause severe damage to the exterior of your home.
So, as a homeowner in Baton Rouge, you must pay attention to the exterior of your house.
Here are a few renovation tips that will help you transform your property into the dream oasis you have always wanted:
Maintain Your Landscaping
Your yard’s landscaping is the magnetism of your home’s exterior. But if you neglect it, the results can be catastrophic. Bushes left unattended can release overgrown roots that threaten the foundation of your house.
Trees left uncut can cause falling branches on your roof and landscape, making it look unkempt. Plus, with Baton Rouge’s humidity, the pests can wreak havoc.
So, it’s crucial for you to regularly prune trees, mow the lawn, water the garden, apply fertilizer, and spread mulch. If you’re dealing with large trees, you may need professionals to help you maintain them.
When it comes to professionals for tree service Baton Rouge has some of the best options such as Tree Surgery by Ricky Vincent. They provide a range of services, from hazardous tree removal to deep root fertilizing and land clearing.
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Pay Special Attention to Your Roof
Whether made of traditional shingles or trusty metal, your home’s roof is the first line of defense against many hazards.
It absorbs the brunt of the rain, the heat from the sun, and those pesky Louisiana gales. That’s why it’s essential to inspect your rooftop regularly.
Loose shingles, cracked tiles, or moss-covered areas are some signs to look for. These can cause moisture to penetrate your home and result in costly damage.
If your roof is more than twenty years old, consider replacing it. A professional roofing company can help you successfully pull off this project.
Repair Your Pathways
Walkways are the cherry on top of a well-kept exterior. To keep them pristine, you need to pay attention to the cracks and holes that form over time. These can cause a lot of accidents and make your landscape look shabby.
You can use a commercial mix of concrete or asphalt to fill the cracks and holes. If an old pathway needs to be replaced, consider using brick pavers. They are more durable and will last longer.
However, for a more permanent solution, use concrete or stone pavers. You can customize these to give your property an exquisite look. Herringbone, basketweave, and cobblestone can all give your pathway a unique touch.
Repair and Paint Exterior Walls
Constant exposure to sunlight and rain can make your walls look dull and discolored. Plus, the humid climate can cause cracks and flakes in the paint. If you let these walls be, they’ll eat away at your home’s charm and value. So, it’s essential to repair them.
Start by power washing to get rid of dirt and grime. Then, patch up the cracked areas with cement paste or sealant. Prime the surface and move on to the most exciting part of the process: Paint!
You can choose from acrylic latex paints or alkyd paints. The former is easy to clean, while the latter offers longer-lasting results.
When it comes to color, choose ones that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it. That way, you can keep your walls cool and protect them from fading over time.
Work on Your Exterior Lighting
You can’t deny the beauty of well-lit pathways and driveways. It adds a touch of elegance to your property and keeps it illuminated during the night.
You can choose from traditional path lights, floodlights, and wall-mounted sconces. LED lighting is the way to go if you want something more modern and energy-efficient. Not only do these lights last longer, but they also come in various colors.
Lighting also creates a sense of security in your home. Motion-sensor lights can detect any movement and alert you of intruders. It is especially useful if you live in an area with high criminal activity.
Lay New Wooden Decking
Decking gives your outdoor living space a cozy, homey vibe. You can relax in your wicker chair on the deck, watching the flowers bloom and the birds chirp. It can also be a great spot for barbeque parties and get-togethers with family and friends.
But if your deck looks like it belongs to a haunted house, it’s time to replace it. You can start by demolishing the old decking and installing a new one.
Choose from hardwoods like cedar, mahogany, or redwood. These are more durable and require less maintenance. Pressure-treated lumber is also an excellent choice, given its high resistance to rot and insect damage.
But, of course, the options aren’t limited to just wood. You can also choose composite, bamboo, and even recycled materials to give your property a unique touch.
Show the Front Door Some Love
Imagine your front door’s knob displacing itself and the hinges coming undone. You must maintain the front door to ensure your home doesn’t get such solemn portents.
Start by inspecting the quality of your current door. If it looks warped or dented, let it rest and bring a new one. You can choose steel, fiberglass, and wood to give your home a new look. Energy-efficient options can also help you save up on electricity bills.
After selecting the door, focus on the hardware. Brass and stainless steel are two of the most popular choices. You can also customize them based on the theme of your home.
Final Thoughts
Following these exterior renovation tips can give your home a much-needed upgrade. You’ll be able to make it look stunning and increase its value in the process. Make sure you hire reliable services for complex tasks like roofing or tree maintenance.
It’s also safe to research every aspect before giving it a try. You’ll know what to expect and won’t run into any issues along the way. So, get your renovation project started today! You’ll be happy with the results.
