Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Holidays
  • Gardening
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Shop
  • Rooms
  • News
  • Beauty & Style
  • Health & Family
  • Pets
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 7 of the Most Common Perennial Garden Mistakes to Avoid

      Are your plants not looking as lush and colorful as you hoped? Make sure you haven't made any of these missteps. Read More Next
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More Next
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More Next
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays

    International Women’s Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 109-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement in 1908 has become a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Hanukkah
    • New Year's
    • Halloween
    • Valentine's Day
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
    • Father's Day
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you’re a beginner baker who’s just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We’ll help you set up a baking kit for beginners with 21 essential tools. For those who already own these tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflĆ© dish. Building your essential baking toolbox starts here!
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    With so many types of house styles, narrowing the list down to your favorite can be overwhelming. We'll show you the top 10 most popular house styles, including Cape Cod, country French, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, cottage, Mediterranean, ranch, and contemporary. Here's how to tell the differences between each architectural style.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Shop
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • News
  • Beauty & Style

    Beauty & Style

    See All Beauty & Style

    Here's Exactly How to Find Your Perfect Nude Nail Color

    Truth be told, there's no such thing as a universal nude.
    • Anti-Aging
    • Hair
    • Skin Care
    • Makeup
    • Style
    • Nails
  • Health & Family

    Health & Family

    See All Health & Family

    7 Small But Impactful Ways to Fit Self-Care Into Your Day Right Now

    Staying atop of your wellbeing is a must, especially during uncertain, stressful times. These tips will help you make time for self-care for a mental health boost every day.
    • Family Activities
    • Reunions
    • Conditions
    • Parenting Skills
  • Pets

    Pets

    See All Pets

    50 Perfect Calico Cat Names for Your Beautiful Kitty

    Use your pet's unique coat as inspiration on what to call them.
    • Dogs and Puppies
    • Cats
    • Caring for Your Pet
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Home Improvement Ideas
  3. Home Exteriors
  4. Curb Appeal Ideas, Makeovers and Photos
  5. Revive Your Home's Exterior

Revive Your Home's Exterior

February 19, 2016
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Become the best-looking house in the neighborhood in just a weekend. Fix up your home's exterior with these easy and affordable ideas.
Start Slideshow

1 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Mix & Match Siding

Who says your home's exterior has to be covered in only one type of siding? Consider combining materials to highlight your home's architectural features without breaking the bank. Narrow tongue-and-groove planks draw attention and add character to this bungalow's charming entryway.

1 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Redo Your Front Door

A new front door -- or just a fresh coat of paint on the existing one -- adds immediate appeal to your home's facade. Weigh pros and cons of various materials such as wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and metal, and pick one that suits your home's style and your budget.

2 of 18

3 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Dress Up Your Garage

Install a decorative architectural arbor above your garage door to de-emphasize a front-loaded garage. The structure adds personality and provides a place to grow climbing plants.

3 of 18

Advertisement

4 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Build a Path

A walkway from your driveway or sidewalk to your front door is easy to create and will greatly increase your home's curb appeal. Lay parallel garden hoses to test placement options. You can also try curving the path to add visual interest.

4 of 18

5 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Light the Night

Surround your outdoor living spaces with lighting that will let you carry the conversation into the evening. Installing low-voltage lights is a simple do-it-yourself project; or skip the need for electrical wiring by choosing solar-powered lights.

5 of 18

6 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Video: Building Exterior Steps

Watch and learn how to build exterior steps.

6 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Create a Picture-Perfect Porch

Give your front porch some personality with architectural details such as columns and railings. Consider aesthetically pleasing brackets, spandrels, and corbels, too. And don't forget to check out your porch ceiling -- maybe new beaded-board panels are in order. Add a ceiling fan to create a comfortable outdoor living atmosphere.

7 of 18

8 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Refresh Your Deck

In just a weekend, you can give your deck an updated look. Friday night: Remove all furniture and other items from the deck. Saturday morning: Pressure-wash the surface to remove dirt; use warm, soapy water and a scrub brush to remove old mold and mildew. Sunday morning: Stain the deck using a paint roller. You should be able to walk on your deck by nightfall. Add your furniture back Monday night.

8 of 18

9 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Set the Mood

If you live in an urban setting, use water features, such as fountains and bubblers, to mask noise from the street so you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace. Outdoor sound systems are also a great way to camouflage unwanted sounds. And no matter where you live, you can always dress up your deck with a water feature or use one as a focal point in the garden.

9 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Revitalize Vinyl Siding

A simple, twice-a-year rinse with a garden hose should keep vinyl siding looking new. If the siding has been neglected for years, rub it down with a mixture of 3 parts water to 1 part bleach (cover your plants before you apply it). Don't use a power sprayer; the force of the water can bend the pliable material just enough to let water sneak in behind it.

10 of 18

11 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Inspect Your Roof

Inspect the metal flashing around your chimney and vents for rust to prevent leaks. Replace the material as necessary. Also, check your shingles for moss and mildew growth and treat it accordingly.

11 of 18

12 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Manage Rainwater Runoff

Bent or disconnected gutters and downspouts look unflattering and allow water to drain where it shouldn't. Seal gutters that leak at the seams with a smear of silicone caulk. Also consider a gutter-cover system to prevent debris from getting in and clogging your downspouts. Before you replace any gutters, inspect the fascia boards beneath them since they might need replacing.

12 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Install Window Shutters

Installing window shutters is an easy way to bump up your home's curb appeal. Step 1: Measure your windows. Step 2: Buy shutters that are sized to cover the windows when they're closed (even if you opt for the less-expensive inoperable shutters). Step 3: Install according to the manufacturer's instructions.

13 of 18

14 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Update Hardware

Give your existing front door a new personality by replacing the hardware. Always remember that a well-lit front door makes a home look warm and welcoming, so install or update your front-entry lighting as needed. Use compact fluorescent bulbs to keep your energy bill low.

14 of 18

15 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Repave Your Driveway

Not only do cracks in a concrete driveway look messy, they're also a magnet for weeds. Combat this problem by fixing the cracks while they're still small. A canister of patching compound or a tube of siliconized latex sealer with a pointed applicator is all you'll need. Wait for a warm day, clean out the cracks with a blast of water from your hose, shake the compound well, and apply, following label directions.

15 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Update Your Garage Door

Garage door openers are a worthwhile luxury, especially when it's raining. Installing one is a two-person job, so make sure you have an extra set of hands to hold one end of the chain track while you mount it. Just remember that most states require the opener to be plugged into an outlet on its own circuit.

16 of 18

17 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Revive Exterior Trim

One easy way to boost curb appeal is by repainting your home's trim. For a classic, timeless look choose a neutral color such as brown, white, or cream. To add a stamp of personal style, consider painting trim a contrasting hue such as black, green, or purple so it can be easily spotted from the street.

17 of 18

18 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Create a Perfect Patio

Earn style points for your home with an outdoor living area such as a cement patio or deck. A pergola helps define the gathering space and provides climbing plants the perfect spot to latch on. Surround the space with outdoor lights to ensure it can be used during the day and at night.

18 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook
Trending Videos
Advertisement
Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

Advertisement

View All

1 of 18 Mix & Match Siding
2 of 18 Redo Your Front Door
3 of 18 Dress Up Your Garage
4 of 18 Build a Path
5 of 18 Light the Night
6 of 18 Video: Building Exterior Steps
7 of 18 Create a Picture-Perfect Porch
8 of 18 Refresh Your Deck
9 of 18 Set the Mood
10 of 18 Revitalize Vinyl Siding
11 of 18 Inspect Your Roof
12 of 18 Manage Rainwater Runoff
13 of 18 Install Window Shutters
14 of 18 Update Hardware
15 of 18 Repave Your Driveway
16 of 18 Update Your Garage Door
17 of 18 Revive Exterior Trim
18 of 18 Create a Perfect Patio

Share options

Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Login

Shop | Better Homes & Gardens

  • Lawn Edgers
  • Exterior Paint
  • Flowers And Plants
  • Hanging Planters
  • Window Box Planters
  • Outdoor Plant Stands
  • Outdoor Lanterns
  • Landscape Lighting
  • Pathway Lights
  • Outdoor Pillows
  • Shop More Next

Better Homes & Gardens may receive compensation when you click through and purchase from links contained on this website.

  • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
  • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
Better Homes & Gardens

Magazines & More

Learn More

  • About Us
  • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
  • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
  • Help
  • Media Kit
  • Content Licensing
  • Sitemap

Connect

Follow Us
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Other Meredith Sites

Other Meredith Sites

  • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
  • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
  • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
  • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
  • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
  • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
  • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
  • Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
  • Instyle this link opens in a new tab
  • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
  • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
  • More this link opens in a new tab
  • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
  • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
  • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
  • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
  • Parents this link opens in a new tab
  • People this link opens in a new tab
  • People en EspaƱol this link opens in a new tab
  • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
  • Real Simple this link opens in a new tab
  • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
  • Shape this link opens in a new tab
  • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
  • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
  • Travel & Leisure this link opens in a new tab
BH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

View image

Revive Your Home's Exterior
this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.