Top tips for boosting curb appeal from Benjamin Moore and BP Canada
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Improving your home’s exterior can significantly boost curb appeal and overall value. Sharon Grech, colour and design expert for Benjamin Moore, and Nathalie Lambert, marketing director for Building Products of Canada (BP Canada), offer some tips.
Paint your front door in a fresh new colour
Painting your front door a bold, fun colour is a quick and relatively simple way to transform your front porch, says Grech.
“Select an accent colour that complements the exterior finishes you already have.”
Liven up your front porch
If you have a porch, staining its wooden surfaces — decks and railings — will both protect and beautify the exterior of your home, says Grech.
If the wood is in good condition, a good cleaning and light sanding will prepare the surface for stain. More translucent stains are preferred for newer woods as they highlight the beauty of the grain, whereas higher opacities mask the grain and are preferred for more imperfect or aged woods, she says.
Choosing a shingled roof for a luxe look
Different colours to complement different architectural styles
Signature shingles come in a rich, deep colour palette designed to fit different architectural styles, says Lambert. More uniform colours, like cumin, blend well with the symmetrical lines of more classic homes, while Signature’s multi-tone hues are perfect for more contemporary homes that are all about complimenting their natural surroundings, she adds.
Stay true to your home’s overall style
They also suggest different colour combinations to help make it easier for people to choose.
The new range of shingles was inspired by natural elements, like the mountains, sea and rocks, along with the beautiful castles in Scotland and Bavaria, says Lambert.
Things to avoid when it comes to roofing
The best way to stay on top of your roofing is to monitor its condition, says Lambert. “An annual visual inspection is a great way to assess your roof’s condition and even ensure that your shingles last longer.”
There’s no doubt that your roof is a major investment, and the cost of redoing it varies depending on the size of your roof and shingles used, she says. You want to make sure you choose the right product in terms of performance and esthetic, and use certified roofers to extend the longevity of the products you choose, says Lambert.
When is the best time to redo your roof?
Generally, spring and fall are the best seasons for a roof replacement — when temperatures aren’t too hot or cold — says Lambert.
“Rain and humidity can also affect how quickly your job can be completed, so it’s best to time your roof replacement accordingly.”