Home with James Hardie Fiber Cement siding in Minneapolis

How to Update Your House Exterior 

7 minutes

Every remarkable home renovation begins with a vision. If you have been dreaming of refreshing your home’s exterior but are not sure where to start, you are in the right place. A thoughtfully planned exterior update does more than just enhance curb appeal – it protects your investment, improves energy efficiency, and creates lasting value. Whether your home needs a complete makeover or strategic improvements, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to transform your exterior from ordinary to extraordinary. From selecting stunning color combinations to choosing high-performance materials, we will help you navigate the decisions that will turn your vision into reality while adding both beauty and functionality to your home’s exterior. 

Steps on How to Modernize the Exterior of Your Home 

Here are our recommended steps to update and modernize the exterior of your home. 

Assess Your Current Exterior 

Begin any exterior improvement project with a comprehensive home evaluation. A thorough inspection of your siding, windows, and roof reveals potential issues like cracks, peeling paint, gaps around window frames, or missing shingles. These warning signs indicate underlying problems that affect both curb appeal and structural integrity. Early detection prevents minor issues from developing into considerable damage. 

Document specific areas requiring professional attention and replacement. Pay special attention to damaged siding that no longer protects against moisture infiltration. Watch for windows showing condensation between panes or operational difficulties that signal reduced energy efficiency. Note any roof wear, as damaged or missing shingles can lead to leaks and compromise your home’s structural framework. Addressing these concerns promptly through professional replacement prevents cascading problems and mounting repair costs. 

Consider your home’s architectural style when planning exterior updates. Each home type—whether Victorian, Craftsman, Modern, or Ranch—has distinct characteristics that should guide material and color selections. Choose replacement elements that enhance curb appeal while maintaining architectural authenticity. This balanced approach ensures exterior improvements deliver both superior protection and elevated aesthetics, improving your home’s overall value and appeal. Thoughtful assessment and strategic planning create a foundation for successful exterior transformation. 

Choose a Fresh Color for Your Siding 

When selecting colors for your home’s exterior, contemporary trends favor neutral bases accented with bold tones. Popular combinations include soft greys, warm whites, and natural taupes complemented by deep navy, forest green, or rich red accents. These pairings create enduring visual appeal. 

Select exterior colors that harmonize with your roof’s tone and your property’s landscaping. Consider the interplay between siding, trim, and entry door colors to create visual depth. Your front door can serve as a striking focal point through strategic color selection, while complementary trim tones frame windows and architectural features. 

Accent elements enhance your home’s exterior presence. While paint colors form the foundation of your design, consider how architectural features like shutters contribute to the overall aesthetic. Well-chosen exterior colors transform your home’s appearance while reflecting your personal style and increasing curb appeal. 

James Hardie’s ColorPlus Technology delivers superior fade resistance through a specialized factory-applied finishing process. Multiple coats of proprietary finish are baked onto each fiber cement board under controlled conditions, creating a consistently vibrant, long-lasting color that resists UV damage and weathering. This advanced process provides up to 30% more fade resistance than field-applied paint, ensuring your home maintains its aesthetic appeal despite exposure to harsh environmental conditions. 

Upgrade Your Front Door and Entryway 

Your front door sets the tone for your entire home’s exterior presentation. A quality replacement door enhances both security and aesthetics while complementing your architectural style. Premium materials like steel, fiberglass, or wood provide lasting durability and distinctive character. 

Quality hardware elements elevate your entryway’s appearance. Select handles, knockers, and address numbers that align with your home’s design aesthetic. Consider premium finishes that withstand daily use while maintaining their appearance. 

Strategic lighting transforms your entryway after dark. Well-placed fixtures illuminate walkways and highlight architectural details, creating an inviting atmosphere while enhancing security. Thoughtful entryway improvements deliver significant impact, increasing both curb appeal and property value. 

Enhance Windows and Shutters 

Give your home an instant facelift with expertly chosen windows and shutters that capture attention and perform beautifully. Modern replacement windows do more than brighten your space – they create a secure, energy-efficient environment that keeps your family comfortable in every season. Our professional installation team ensures flawless functionality and enduring beauty that transforms your home’s entire appearance. 

Make your home uniquely yours with shutters that perfectly match its architectural personality. Choose from premium vinyl designs that stand up to the elements while staying crisp and fresh or embrace the classic sophistication of real wood shutters that age with grace. With endless color options and custom designs available, your windows will become distinctive focal points that make your home stand out. 

Today’s energy-efficient windows represent the perfect blend of form and function. Advanced glass technologies work with superior insulation to slash your energy bills while maintaining ideal temperatures throughout your home. When you invest in professional window replacement, you are choosing lasting value that pays dividends through lower utility costs, enhanced comfort, and show-stopping curb appeal that lasts for years to come. 

Refresh Your Landscaping 

A thoughtfully designed outside area creates an unforgettable first impression. Begin your transformation by clearing away tired plantings and introducing fresh, resilient varieties that thrive with minimal care. Elevate your yard’s natural beauty with strategically placed flower gardens, decorative stone features, and rich mulch beds. Well-positioned landscape lighting not only enhances security but also creates an enchanting nighttime display that highlights your home’s architectural details. 

Let your home’s unique character guide your plant selection and design choices. Contemporary homes shine with bold ornamental grasses and clean-lined planters that echo their modern aesthetic. If your home speaks to classic design, consider creating romantic garden spaces with traditional favorites like climbing roses, full hydrangea bushes, and manicured boxwood borders.  

Success lies in consistent care and attention to detail. Regular pruning, precise lawn maintenance, and thorough weed control preserve your landscape’s polished appearance. 

Consider Additional Exterior Features 

When learning how to modernize your home exterior, consider additional features that enhance aesthetics and functionality. Fencing options, for example, can define your space while providing privacy and security. Choose materials that complement your home’s style, whether it is a classic wooden fence or a modern vinyl alternative. Adding decorative elements like lighting can significantly impact your exterior. Install pathway lights or wall sconces to illuminate your property and highlight architectural features. 

Walkways and patios play crucial roles in exterior functionality. A well-designed pathway can guide guests to your front door, while a spacious patio offers an inviting area for outdoor gatherings. Consider materials that blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior and landscape. Pavers, stones, and concrete can be styled to enhance your home’s curb appeal. 

Contact DaBella for Your Next Exterior Transformation 

Ready to fall in love with your home all over again? From the shingles to the siding, we will help you create a stunning exterior that turns heads and stands strong for years to come. 

As your GAF Master Elite Roofer and James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, we bring unmatched expertise to every project. We deliver premium roofing systems that protect and beautify, elegant James Hardie fiber cement and vinyl siding in styles to match any vision, and energy-efficient replacement windows that enhance both looks and comfort. 

Your dream home starts with a conversation. Call 844-DaBella today for your free, no-obligation quote and let our experts guide you through the possibilities. We will help you select the perfect materials, colors, and design elements to create an exterior that is uniquely yours. 

Do not wait to make your home the jewel of the neighborhood. Contact DaBella today and see why thousands of homeowners trust us with their exterior transformations. 

Steven Shortridge

District Manager

Portland, OR

Learn more about Steven

1-844-DABELLA