Most people think of indoor projects like painting, re-flooring, or renovating a kitchen or bathroom when it comes to home improvement. But what about the outdoors? There’s no reason you can’t improve your home’s exterior just as quickly — and in some cases, even more easily.
Here are some tips on choosing the perfect outdoor home improvement project for your needs. Whether you want to increase your property value, add some extra curb appeal, or enjoy your outdoor space, these tips got you covered. So read on and get inspired!
Tip 1: Start by considering your needs and wants.
Before you start browsing through catalogs or websites, take some time to think about what you want from your outdoor home improvement project. Do you need more storage space? A new deck for entertaining? Once you know what you’re after, finding the right project will be much easier.
Tip 2: Match the project to your home’s style.
One of the keys to a successful home improvement project is making sure the finished product looks like it always belonged there. That is especially important for exterior projects, which can be seen from the street. So take a few minutes to study your home’s style and try to find a project that will complement it.
Tip 3: Consider your climate.
Before starting any project, it’s essential to consider your climate. If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, make sure the new addition or renovation will be able to stand up to the elements. For instance, if your site has predominantly hot weather, a pool would be an excellent addition. If your area is cold for most of the year, add a fire pit instead.
Tip 4: Budget wisely.
Like any home improvement project, it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. Outdoor projects can be expensive, so make sure you know what you want before you start spending money.
Tip 5: Do your research.
Not all outdoor home improvement projects are created equal. So before you start shopping, do some research to find out which ones are the best fit for your home and your budget. There are plenty of online resources available, including review websites and contractor directories.
Tip 6: Get creative.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your outdoor home improvement project. If you see a project that you like, but it’s out of your price range, ask a contractor if they can give you a quote for a customized version. You may be surprised at how affordable custom projects can be.
Tip 7: Consider your lifestyle.
Your lifestyle should also play a role in your outdoor home improvement decision-making process. If you love spending time outdoors, consider adding a deck or patio. If you have kids, you may want to add a playground or a basketball court. The possibilities are endless, so think about what would make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Tip 8: Think about the future.
When choosing an outdoor home improvement project, it’s always a good idea to think about the future. If you plan to sell your home in the next few years, adding a new deck or patio can immensely increase its value. And if you’re planning on staying in your home for many years to come, these projects will still add enjoyment and function to your life.
Tip 9: Choose materials that will last.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing an outdoor home improvement project is the material used. Select materials that will last in your climate and are easy to maintain. Cedar, for example, is an excellent choice for projects that will be exposed to the elements.
Tip 10: Keep your neighbors in mind.
While you want your home improvement project to look great, you also need to keep your neighbors in mind. Choose a project that won’t obstruct their view or make them feel uncomfortable. And always check with your local zoning board before starting any large-scale project.
Tip 11: Add storage space.
If you’re like most people, you probably have a lot of stuff that needs to be stored outside. Add some extra storage space to your home improvement project list, and you’ll be glad you did. Outdoor storage sheds, decks with built-in storage, and even window boxes can provide a much-needed place to store your stuff.
Tip 12: Add some color.
One of the best ways to add personality to your home is adding some color. Painting your front door a bright shade of red, for example, can make a big statement. And adding a few flower pots in your favorite color can brighten up a drab porch.
Tip 13: Add some lighting.
Another way to add personality to your home is by adding some outdoor lighting. That can be anything from a simple porch light to decorative string lights. That will make your home look great at night, and it will also increase security and safety.
Outdoor home improvement projects can add function and beauty to your home. It’s essential to choose the right project for your needs and budget. From these tips, you can choose whatever fits and get started improving your outdoor space.
