Whether your porch is a place to have a cup of coffee, watch your kids play, or dine alfresco on a nice summer evening, it's probably not the first place you think of when considering home repairs and upgrades.
But there are several budget-friendly improvements that can make your porch a place to enjoy throughout the year.
Update in detail
Do you notice wobbly railings or faded paint on columns and trim? For a cleaner, more stylish space, consider tightening screws, replacing old wood or giving the area a fresh coat of paint. You can also order outdoor decor, like throw rugs and place mats, to cozy up the space. If your front door's seen better days, you might consider replacing it or painting it a vibrant, happy color like red, yellow or blue.
Replace old lighting
If your porch fan is buzzing, squeaking or moving slowly, it's likely time for a replacement. The same goes for lighting. If you see flickering and dimming, or hear humming, it's a good idea to call an electrician to evaluate the issue. If your fixtures are dated, replacing them is a simple project that offers instant results. Hanging string or fairy lights can also add a special, inviting touch to any outdoor space.
Bring in plants
Potted plants are the gold standard when it comes to sprucing up your porch for spring and summer, whether you're keen to keep things monochromatic or go all-out with a vibrant mix of colors, textures and shapes.
For a fail-safe design, consider hanging plants on the interior of your porch and placing potted plants at either side of the door and along the edge of the porch. You can also use potted plants and flowers to line your walkway. Consider adding a few path lights to highlight plants at night.
Maintain hardscaping
Porches, pathways, driveways and other hardscaping elements require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. You may want to pressure-wash the concrete around your home's exterior or hire it done. Be sure to inspect for any cracks or damage in the concrete. If you notice an issue, call a pro to take a look. That can help you stay ahead of costly repairs.
Opt for comfort
Soaking up the sun or settling in for a cup of evening tea is that much better when you can lean back and relax. Even the smallest porches can usually accommodate a chair or two.
When it comes to seating, the sky's the limit: choose a classic bench swing, a bistro set, rocking chairs, colorful Adirondacks or even trendy hanging basket chairs. When it comes to perking up your porch, it all comes down to what best fits your space, budget and taste.
