It’s a lot, my dudes and dudettes. Exterior remodeling can be a huge undertaking. But, it can also have a big impact on the curb appeal and value of your home. Whether you’re looking to update the look of your home, fix damage, or make it more energy efficient, there are many options to consider. Let’s take a look.
Ways to do Exterior Remodeling
Update the Siding
First, you can update the siding. This can not only give your home a fresh new look, but it can also help to improve energy efficiency by providing an extra layer of insulation. There are many different materials to choose from, including vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. Each has its own pros and cons.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a popular choice because it’s low-maintenance, durable, and affordable. It comes in a wide range of colors and styles, and it can be easily cleaned with a hose. However, it may not be as durable as some other materials and it can become discolored or faded over time.
Vinyl siding. Credit: SirLogic at Wikimedia Commons
Wood
Wood, on the other hand, is a classic and traditional choice that can add natural beauty and charm to your home. It is also a good insulator, which can help to save on energy costs. However, wood requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, and it can be more expensive than other options. It’s also prone to rot and insect damage if you don’t properly care for it.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement is a newer option that is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s durable, relatively fire-resistant, and able to withstand pretty extreme weather conditions. It is also low maintenance and can be painted any color. However, it’s a more expensive option and can be heavy, which may require additional support when installing.
Before moving on to windows, here’s a video with more information on siding:
Another Exterior Remodeling Option is to Change the Windows
Another option is to update your windows. Older windows can be drafty and inefficient, leading to higher energy bills. New windows can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home, as well as add value and just make your house look a lot better (curb appeal). There are many different styles and materials to choose from, including wood, vinyl, and aluminum. So let’s first talk about the window frames.
Materials
Wood windows are a traditional choice that can add natural beauty and warmth to a home. They are also good insulators, but they require regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, and they can be more expensive than other options. Vinyl is a popular selection because these windows are low maintenance, energy-efficient, and affordable. They come in lots of colors and styles, but they may not be as durable as some other materials. Finally, aluminum windows are long-lasting and low maintenance, but they are not as energy efficient as other options and they may not be as visually appealing.
Style
There’s a whole bag of different styles of exterior windows to choose from, including single-hung, double-hung, casement, awning, sliding, and bay or bow. Each one has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider which one will best suit your needs and style preferences.
Glass/Glazing
Another factor to consider is the type of glazing, or glass, used in the windows. Low-E glass, for example, is coated with a thin layer of metal that reflects heat, making it more energy efficient. Double- or triple-paned windows have multiple layers of glazing, which can also improve energy efficiency and reduce noise.
And don’t forget impact-resistant windows, which may be necessary or recommended in hurricane-prone areas like Miami (if not, you’ll have to get shutters and deploy them each time there’s a hurricane threat).
To round out our window discussion, here’s a video:
Change or Repair the Roof
Another area to consider is your home’s roof. A new roof can not only improve the look of your home, but it can also protect your home from damage caused by weather and water leaks. There are many different types of roofs to choose from, including asphalt shingles, metal, and tile. It’s important to choose a material that is durable and will hold up well in your area.
There are many options for changing the roof on your home, ranging from a simple repair to a complete replacement. Here are a few to consider:
- Repair: If your roof has only minor damage, such as a few missing or broken shingles, a repair may be all that is needed. This can be a cost-effective option to extend the life of your roof.
- Re-roofing: If your roof is in relatively good condition, but needs an update, re-roofing may be an option. This involves installing new shingles over the existing roof, which can save time and money compared to a complete tear-off.
- Roof replacement: If your roof is severely damaged or has reached the end of its lifespan, a full roof replacement may be necessary. This involves removing the existing roof and installing a new one. It is a more extensive and costly project, but it can also add value and protection to your home. Often, it’ll be your insurance company that will force a roof replacement on you (and sometimes pay for it). These easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars, so I suggest you budget years beforehand. That way, assuming your insurer doesn’t pay for it, you won’t have to drain your savings or borrow money.
Roof Materials
When it comes to choosing a new roof, there are many different materials to consider, including asphalt shingles, metal, and tile. Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable option, but they have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. Metal roofs are durable and energy efficient, but they can be more expensive upfront (and can look odd or even ugly, if you ask me) (before getting a metal roof, I’d research what it will do to the value of your home – ask local realtors, to start). Tile roofs are long-lasting and add a classic look to a home, but they are also heavy and can be more expensive.
Let’s look at roof materials in more detail:
Asphalt shingles
Again, asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable choice for roofing. They are available in a wide range of colors and styles, and they are relatively easy to install. However, they have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials and may not be as durable in (or resistant to) extreme weather conditions.
This is what asphalt shingles look like. Credit: Darrenn Williams at Wikimedia Commons.
Metal
Metal roofing is a strong and long-lasting option that can withstand nasty and extreme weather. It is also energy efficient, as it reflects heat and reduces the amount of energy needed to cool a home. Metal roofing can be more expensive upfront, but it may save money in the long run due to its longevity.
Does it look ugly, though? Will it add to the value and curb appeal of your home? Be sure to research this before making an expensive commitment!
Tile
Tile roofing adds a classic and sophisticated look to a home. It is also long-lasting and durable, with a lifespan of 50 years or more. However, it can be heavy and more expensive than other options, and it may require additional support during installation.
Wood
Wood roofing, such as cedar shingles, adds natural beauty and charm to a home. It is also a good insulator and can help to save on energy costs. However, wood roofing requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, and it is prone to rot and insect damage if you don’t care for it properly.
There are many other roofing materials to choose from, such as slate, rubber, and composite. It’s important to do your research and consider factors such as cost, durability, and maintenance requirements when deciding which material is best for your home.
Here’s a video on roofing materials:
Other Exterior Remodeling Options
Other exterior remodeling options include updating your home’s landscaping, adding a deck or patio, and repainting or staining the exterior of your house. No matter what changes you decide to make, be sure to do your research and work with a reputable contractor to ensure that the job is done correctly and to your satisfaction. Don’t forget to pull permits!
Summing It Up
Exterior remodeling can be a big investment, but it can also have a big payoff in terms of the value and enjoyment of your home. Whether you’re looking to make small updates or undertake a major renovation, there are many options to consider that can help you create the home of your dreams.
Sounds good, let’s go!
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