Investing In Your Home's Value - Home Improvement Article

By:Trevor Russell

The impact the outside of your home makes is the first impression others have of your home. Whether you're looking to put your home on the market or you just want to improve its appearance, there are a few key projects that will improve the resale value and the aesthetics of your home.

Cut your grass and weed and edge your garden. Keeping your yard manicured will make a big difference, and the only expense is a little elbow grease. For a minimal cost, annual flowers can be planted and they will likely bloom all year long. Plant red flowers if you want to attract hummingbirds.

A deck is a natural extension of your living space. While a deck is ideal for hosting parties, having barbeques and enjoying quiet nights at home, it also adds financial and visual value to your home. To avoid burdensome staining, sealing or painting of a wood deck, choose a wood composite. A wood composite, such as TimberTech, is a low-maintenance product made from wood and plastic that looks well kept all year.

When you add a wood composite deck-or use it to replace a wood deck-you'll recoup much of your investment when you sell your home. Remodeling Magazine's 2005 Cost vs. Value Report estimates a national average of a 90.3 percent return on investment for deck additions. TimberTech offers a wide variety of planks and color choices, accessories and railings to create your own backyard paradise. For more information, visit www.timbertech.com.

A few simple lights can have a dramatic effect. Use temporary lights to create an ambiance for a get-together and keep the party lit long after dark. Use permanent lights to line walkways, garden beds or decks. Most outdoor lights are now available with solar power, so there's no need to mess with cords and electrical outlets.

Siding is an important part of the exterior of a home. While there are many options available, make sure to invest in a siding that will look as good in the future as it does today. To ensure maximum curb appeal, choose a siding product that gives you the look you want and the maintenance freedom you love. One option is insulated siding, which offers long-lasting beauty with an authentic natural wood appearance, and the insulation gives your home better energy efficiency for added savings. For example, Crane Performance Siding's CraneBoard Solid Core Siding features an authentic wood look and comes in six styles, including a new Board & Batten and Beaded siding.

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For more information, visit www.cranesiding.com.

Homeowners can easily improve the look of their home by doing a few of these tasks. What's more, low-maintenance additions provide homeowners with more time for important activities, such as relaxing with family and friends.

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