5 simple ways to update your home’s exterior
Give your home an exterior makeover that will add value to your property
Painting, cladding, rendering and reconditioning brickwork are just a few of the options to consider when giving your home a new look. With plenty of choices available it takes careful planning to select the right materials and decide on improvements that will enhance your property’s appearance and add value. Here are five easy ideas to update the exterior of your home and get more bang for your buck.
Image: LA Hally Architects
Revamp your roof with solar panels
Your roof might not require a complete overhaul – perhaps just the replacement of cracked tiles and cleaning using a pressure washer will instantly improve its appearance. However, if you’re considering extending upwards and wish to change the entire set-up then consider solar panel arrays, which come in the form of solar tiles that can blend in with traditional slate tiles, or even whole roof systems.
‘You could consider a building-integrated photovoltaic system (BIPV), such as Sunstation. The system fits into the roof itself and is less visible because it does not protrude, but integrates with the existing roof structure,’ says Susannah Wood, chief marketing officer at Solarcentury. Remember that if you do decide to replace the entire roof you will need to bring it up to the latest building regulations standard.
Image: Eric Parry Architects
Add aluminium or galvanised steel guttering
Broken downpipes and gutters filled with debris are an eyesore and can cause significant damage to a property’s exterior as water, instead of draining away, finds its way into the bricks and mortar. Replacing old guttering could not only stop further damage to your property exterior, but also add visual appeal with different shapes and materials, from gleaming aluminium and galvanised steel, to heritage copper.
As the autumn leaves start to fall, the future build-up of debris is inevitable. Consider installing products such as gutter brushes, which keeps debris out while allowing rainwater to drain away.
Image: Van Ellen
