When you move into your new home and finally get settled you may be looking at making a few updates to the exterior that will transform your backyard into a sanctuary. Alternatively, you may be looking for some outdoor changes that will add curb appeal and value to a home you’re listing to sell. Either way, a relocation is the perfect time to consider some outdoor projects.
We’ve narrowed down some easy outdoor home improvement projects that are sure to get you the most bang for your buck. The best part is, these small changes will make a big difference and don’t require you to shell out a lot of money! Here are our top 5 easy outdoor home improvements for you to consider:
1. Add Landscape Lighting
Adding lighting to your seating areas and landscaping is a particularly easy project that you can complete on your own. Your best option is to use solar landscape lighting, which is simple to install and a great way to light your landscape without increasing your electricity bill. This type of lighting won’t require you to be fuss with hardwires. There are a variety of solar lighting options to choose from, including walkway lighting, accent lighting and string lights for your patio or trees. Outdoor lighting not only adds a nice ambiance to the front or back of your home, but acts as an extra security measure. For about $100, you can get two dozen attractive solar lights, so this investment won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
2. Replace Your Front Door
By replacing your outdated door, you can get a healthy return on your investment. Not only is a new front door a smart energy upgrade, it provides great curb appeal and needs virtually no maintenance. According to Chinese philosophy, front door colors and entryways have a lot to say about the character of whoever lives inside. This is a fun way to transform your new home to fit your individual personality. For example, in feng shui, a red door is thought to be welcoming and invites good energy. The owners of the home are thought to be full of life and hospitable. A new door will also be more energy efficient, keeping heat in and cold out. Older doors can be a huge source of energy loss, so with improving the look of your house, and improving energy efficiency, this project won’t break the bank and will make a big difference in the look and feel of your home.
3. Add Gutter Guards
You may not realize it, but when an unprotected gutter system clogs with dirt and debris, it’s only a matter of time before costly problems develop. When gutters become clogged, water will spill over the side and down your home, rotting your fascia and soffit, and causing foundation and structural damage. Gutter cleaning is a temporary solution to a permanent problem. By installing gutter guards, you can eliminate gutter cleaning for the life of your home. By choosing a gutter guard with no holes, gaps, or openings, like LeafFilter, you can prevent all types of debris from entering and clogging your gutters. The best part is that these gutter guards are professionally installed so you won’t have to fumble on a ladder to install them yourself. Installing gutter guards is also a great selling point to future homeowners.
4. Build a Pergola or Trellis
By adding a pergola or trellis, you can add a unique focal point to your backyard. Building a pergola over your patio or deck is a great way to benefit from subtle shade, while still getting some of that sunlight glow. Pergolas come in a variety of different shapes and sizes and can add a touch of elegance to your home. Can you imagine how great your pergola will look with string lights while entertaining outside? If a pergola is a little too lofty of a goal, building a trellis is another great focal point for your garden. Building a trellis in your backyard is an easy afternoon project. Use soil to outline or create a garden and plant bright colored flowers and vining plants along the base to create your garden. Your trellis is sure to add dimension, color, and decoration to a blank space in your backyard!
5. Add a Fire Pit
For a small investment, you can create a fire pit in your backyard that is great for relaxing or entertaining. If you have an outdoor seating area, the fire pit can provide a focal point for entertaining. You may choose to create a built-in fire pit from concrete, stone, or brick. Another option is to choose a portable fire pit that you can move around your yard. One of the easiest ways is to arrange pavers (most are $1!) in a circular shape and add a fire-pit insert for an attractive, yet functional, look. Additionally, you’ll want to invest in some movable patio furniture that is comfortable and water-resistant. These home improvement projects are sure to add charm and functionality to your new home, or value to a home you’re selling!
Once you’ve found the perfect home with the perfect fixer-upper yard, call 800.222.4744 for a free moving estimate from Olympia Moving & Storage, or request an estimate online.
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