Who knew there was more than one way to update the exterior of your home. Render is certainly having it’s moment but if it’s not within your budget modernising the exterior gets popped into the too-hard-basket. There’s plenty to ponder before making the change and there are other options available to you that perhaps you haven’t considered. Try one, or fuse multiple elements together to overhaul the external look and feel of your home.

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Paint

Paint is certainly the most affordable way to give your home a fresh look. Although time consuming if you plan to do it yourself, you can usually apply the paint straight to the bricks, no sanding, or prep work required! Keeping in mind the paint may absorb into the bricks a little more than you’re expecting, applying another coat should ensure the strength of colour. Be conscious of the tools you’re using and be sure to purchase rollers specific to bricks, this will ensure the finish is premium and not thinning in areas. You can always begin by painting the trimmings first windows, guttering/fascias, and see what effect this has on the exterior. If you have a dark brick, opt for a lighter trimming to freshen the facade, and vice versa, maximising the contrast adds to the impact of the home.

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Cladding

Update your facade with timber cladding, used as a compliment to brick or as a statement all on it’s own, timber cladding is the ultimate in charming exteriors. This traditionally coastal base has been reinvented by interior tastemakers over the years to reflect an aesthetic that is both refreshing and sleek, sitting comfortably in suburban homes. Finishing in white, or tonal grey oozes Hamptons charm, and a charcoal or black beautifully compliments mahogany tones. Costings on this can vary depending on your timber choice but sits at a more affordable update to your exterior.

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Render

Right up on the ‘exxy' end of the scale is cement rendering. The investment is significant but the outcome is phenomenal. Immediately your house has departed its 1970s foundations leaving you with an exterior that appears modern and clean. Completely rendering your home may remove some of the original character of the structure, however this may be your intention! You can diversify the finish with a range of colours or you can paint over your render once complete, just don’t forget to factor that into your budget. You’ll also need to be conscious of maintenance and consider the longevity of the finish. Be sure to have a professional review the property before you proceed to avoid a lacklustre finish, or cracking. 

If budget is an issue but your set on this style of finish you can consider bagging which has a similar effect to render. Bagging has much more of a grit and texture to it and won’t achieve a completely smooth finish if that’s what you’re after, but the look and feel of the aesthetic very much mirrors render and comes in at a more accessible price. 

Rosalie Molloy

Creative Director
www.notsavinglives.com

Posted: 24 April 2018