BUDGET-FRIENDLY WAYS TO SPRUCE UP THE EXTERIOR A

s any homeowner knows, renovation projects tend to cost a lot of money. The average cost of a home renovation is difficult to gauge, as such endeavors include complex projects like a complete kitchen overhaul to simple projects such as painting a room. The scope of a project is what determines the cost.

Though there might not be an “average cost” of a renovation project, homeowners can expect to spend thousands of dollars on large-scale projects. Navigating these expenses while inflation remains high might be difficult for some homeowners. Instead, there are many budgetfriendly ways homeowners can maintain curb appeal.

Wash away dirt and grime

Power washing won’t break the bank but it can revive the look of a home. Power washing removes dirt and grime from the siding of a home, porches, walkways and patios. Local shops typically rent power washers, but homeowners who don’t want to do it themselves can hire a professional for a few hundred dollars, if not less. Power washing after winter can be a good idea, as the elements can take a toll on a home’s exterior. A good power washing before spring and summer entertaining season can thus give a home a fresh, clean look without breaking the bank.

Furnish the front porch

A furnished front porch can serve as a welcome sign to neighbors and provide a great place to relax with a morning cup of coffee and a good book. Homeowners with a small porch won’t need to bust their budgets to upgrade their front porch furnishings. Some comfortable chairs with bright cushions, a small table and a rug underfoot can create a welcoming entryway at low cost.

Install box planters

Installing window box planters is another cost-effective way to brighten up a home’s exterior. Homeowners can hang window boxes outside windows on the front of their homes and then fill them with brightly colored flowers to add an inviting pop of color to their home exteriors. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens urge homeowners to take weight into consideration before buying window planters. Keep in mind that soil and developed plants can be heavy, so look for a sturdy box with proper drainage.

Replace hardware

Another simple way to freshen up a stale exterior is to replace hardware. Door knobs, knockers, house numbers, and even the mailbox can appear dated after a while. Replacing these items is inexpensive and quick but can have a profound impact on how the exterior of a home appears to residents and visitors.

Special surprises for attendees

Several local businesses that attend the annual Home and Ranch Show, hosted by Ballantine Events, offer outstanding prizes for a selection of lucky attendees. As the vendors prepare for the big day, the list of free gifts and goods continues to grow.

Visit with local businesses, such as Farmers Insurance and Grizzly

Family Custom Homes, to sign up for giveaways. Don’t miss out on registering to win one of these fabulous prizes.

• Handmade cutting board from Animas Craft Woodworks

• $50 Big R gift card and swag bag from Wade Agency

• 6” sandwich from Subversion

• Electric leaf blower from LPEA

• $150 dinner gift cards from Farha Roofing

• $2,000 gift certificate for in-store credit toward any installation or service from Silver Creek Design

• Gift card to Durango Hot Springs from Silver Creek Design

• Green Mountain Grill Trek from Raindrops of the Four Corners

• Free initial visit and X-rays valued at over $400 from Pathfinder Chiropractic

• $200 Purgatory Resort gift card and a luggage piece from AAA Colorado