Splash a New Color on the Exterior
One of the first things you can do is add a splash of new color to the exterior. The old walls may be faded and peeling from exposure to the sun and a new splash of color can liven up the house, even if you paint it the same color it was before. You can also add a change of color if the exterior of your house has a color that has aged poorly. You can also add a splash of new color to the front door and garage door for extra pizzazz.
Add Improved Lighting
Another area that should be improved is the lighting in your home. Chances are, if you have an older house, the lighting may not be sufficient. Do you find yourself buying lamps just to brighten the space? It may be time to add new windows to improve lighting. Natural lighting can brighten a space, making it feel bigger, and that light can be further reflected with mirrors on the opposite wall.
Focus on Kitchen and Bathroom
Two of the most important areas to focus on are the kitchen and bathroom. These areas might require a complete renovation due to the appliances and plumbing structures. Modern appliances are more energy efficient and therefore save you money. Your plumbing in the bathroom might look antiquated and it might also have problems with the pipes, which could cause major damage to your home. Updating your appliances and plumbing should be a top priority when remodeling your older home.
Go Green
With a modern update, you should also consider going green. Going green might seem like an overwhelming concept, but there are simple ways to make a home greener without having to build a new one. For example, you can install a shoe bench in your entryway to prevent dirt and toxins from being tracked into your home. You can also change your traditional lights to LED lights as they are more energy efficient. You can add solar panels, check the sealant on windows and doors to make sure energy is not being wasted, and replace your water heater for a more energy efficient one. Going green doesn’t have to be expensive, but it is definitely worth it.
Replace Your Roof
With an older home, your roof may be leaking into the attic, causing mold and mildew and inviting pests into your home. A more modern roof, such as a metal roof, keeps leaks away as well as reduces pests. Replacing your roof is a big intense endeavor though, so you should only replace your roof if you’re sure that it is causing problems. If shingles are flying off and you spy water spots on the ceilings or walls, it may be time to replace your roof. A new roof can also improve the aesthetic of your home, but it is not a cheap endeavor. Make sure it’s something your house needs before you invest in replacing your roof.
Repaint the Interior
A cheaper way to renovate your older home to make it look more modern would be to repaint the interior. Colors affect the way people feel. Subtle neutral colors such as white and tan are good for heavy use areas in the house, such as the dining room and living room. These colors give off a cool feeling and reduce stress. You can add color in the bedrooms, or even in the kitchen, but refrain from painting the entire room one bright color. Accent colors can really make the color of a room pop and give it its own unique feeling. For example, one wall bright yellow in an otherwise white office can give off a cheery feeling, especially if the room is accented with yellow floor rugs and other yellow accessories.
Update the Outside Lawn
If your lawn is dead and the trees look shriveled, it may be time to update your yard in addition to your home. You may need to buy new grass seed and replant the grass, watering it carefully so as not to flood your yard. You may need to trim your trees to keep them healthy. While you’re at it, you can also plant bright flowers in flower beds by your house. Because your yard along with the outside of your house gives off the first impression of your home, you want it to look the best that it can.
Check the Flooring
Carpeted floors can gather dust and collect dirt from food, spreading germs year after year. You can replace your carpet, but it may also be a good idea to install hardwood floors. Hardwood floors give your home a sleek modern look and they are much easier to take care of than carpet. The hardwood doesn’t collect dust like carpet does and you can add accents by throwing rugs down on the floor, but it can be expensive and carpet is still in style, so ultimately, it is up to you to decide what kind of flooring to get.
Add Modern Interior Decorations
Another way to add a modern flair to your older home is to add modern interior decorations after you’ve finished remodeling your home. These decorations can include mirrors to reflect sunlight, updated shelving units, and plants to add a spark of life to your home. Interior decorating is also a chance for you to reflect your style and make your masterpiece feel more like home.
If you’ve always wanted to make your older home a modern masterpiece, now is your chance. It will take effort, time and a bit of money to update your home, but the result will be worth the effort.
Ready to give your roof some TLC? Schedule a free inspection with us to get started!