Older homes have plenty of charm. Often filled with beautiful features like wood floors and custom cabinets, they’re designed to welcome generations of families home. However, these older homes can come with a long list of renovations needed to bring those old bones up to modern standards. We know it can be overwhelming! If you’re facing a complete exterior renovation for your older home, we’ve created a list based on our experts’ advice to help you prioritize your updates.
Decide on a Modern Color Scheme
If your home hasn’t changed much in the past few decades, odds are high that the exterior colors need a refresh to move it forward into looking its best. We’d recommend deciding on this ahead of any updates so you can keep your vision in mind when selecting new upgrades for your home. Some color schemes that work wonderfully with older homes:
- Classic White: An immediate callback, classic white with a red or black entry door stands the test of time.
- Earthy Neutrals: A modern but grounded choice, earth tones make your home a cozy retreat.
- Calm Blue: Craving serenity at home? Navy or light blues promote peace of mind and creativity.
Start With a New Roof
If you’ve just purchased your home, you likely had a home inspection performed and know what shape your roof is in. However, if you’ve lived there for years and can’t remember when it was last replaced, it’s time to call a roofing company. A reliable roof gives you a solid foundation for the rest of your updates—as well as peace of mind against the elements.
Revamp Your Front Door
Your entry door is likely where guests’ eyes are drawn when they’re approaching your home. You want it to make a good first impression! Install a beautiful replacement entry door that complements your home, using the color scheme you started with as a guiding light for its color. We carry a variety of style and design options for our front doors that make customizing to your taste simple.
Install Bright New Windows
If your older home’s windows haven’t been replaced in the last twenty or so years, it’s time for replacements. Not only do they likely look dated, but they’re costing you money through energy loss that makes your utilities have to work that much harder to stay effective. When replacing your windows, take cues from your home for what to choose. That being said, double-hung windows are a classic choice that blends traditional style with modern functionality.
Redesign Your Landscaping
At this point, we recommend turning to your yard. A plain lawn or out-of-control shrubs can make even the most beautiful home look less than its best. Some ideas for refreshing your landscaping:
- Update walkways: If your brick walkways are uneven from age or gravel paths are messy and tired, it’s time to refresh.
- Add new greenery: Placing plants in modern pots instantly adds curb appeal. Shade-loving ferns are a great choice around porches.
- Replant flowerbeds: Dig up old plants and replace them with native flowers for a local touch.
Create a Welcoming Entryway
If your older home has a showstopping front porch, it’s time to match that energy with your decor choices. Redesign your front porch to take full advantage of the space, allowing for functionality and style in spades. Whether that means adding new rocking chairs, painting or replacing porch railings or even widening porch stairs to create a grander entrance, your front porch should be a space you’re proud to show off.
Finish With Siding Updates
With all other exterior elements attended to, it’s time to look at your home’s siding. If it’s been longer than 20 years or you do not know when the siding was last replaced, it’s time to update. This is the single most important factor that makes your home look either up-to-date or just dated. Vinyl siding has a classic look, but plenty of functionality too: it provides protection from the elements and helps your home’s overall energy efficiency.
Trust Us With Your Home’s Exterior Renovation
We know how much care and hard work goes into maintaining an older home. Our team has decades of experience working with local homeowners to restore their homes with exterior replacement products. Interested in working with us? We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have during your free in-home estimate.