Blog Post Categories
Enhance Curbside Appeal and Security – 8 Top Tips
Homeowners often want to improve curbside appeal for their property. Did you know you can also improve your security with the same e? Read on to learn our eight top tips
8 Ways to Enhance Your Home’s Curbside Appeal and Security Simultaneously
Do you look at your home sometimes and think ‘How do I improve the curbside appeal’?Photo by Scott Webb
Ever get that odd slightly downward feeling when you pull into your driveway? Your front of the house doesn’t look as good as it should or maybe you’re thinking, “Yikes, is this place as secure as it should be?” You’re not alone!
Whether it’s the neighbors looking in your windows or potential buyers driving by for a drive-by. And, let’s be real, we all just want our houses to say, “Look at me!” and whisper, “Don’t even try.”
Good news, we’ve got eight ways to make your house look good and safe, to help you improve your curbside appeal. These aren’t just pretty choices, they make your house safe too. Ready to make your house the talk of the neighborhood? Let’s get started!
1. Burn It Up Like A Rockstar
Lighting isn’t just to highlight your beautiful landscape (although that’s a win). A well lit house says: “We see you, don’t even try.” Solar lights on paths, motion sensors on doors and uplights to highlight your favourite trees or architectural details all do the trick.
The best part? It’s all about balance. You want it cozy without making your house a Vegas strip. Motion-sensing floodlights, especially in dark areas, are the icing on the cake — bright enough to deter break-ins but not too obnoxious to your neighbors.
While you’re at it, get smart lighting so you can dim and change color with your phone. Have the greenest Christmas planned? Done. Just want to keep things soft and cozy for dinner? Easy. Lighting is one of those amenities that does double duty without breaking the bank.
2. Level Up Your Door
Your front door isn’t just a door; it’s a doorshake. A rusty, creaky door doesn’t exactly say “welcome” does it? Swapping it out for something solid and stylish can change the whole vibe.
Ultra-Seals range of composite doors are a clean looking, tough combination of function and form that will make your house stand out and keep unwanted visitors out. These doors aren’t just pretty; they’re engineered to withstand the weather and whatever life throws at them. And they’re low maintenance. Who has time to paint every year anyway?
Bonus: Get a modern, high-end lock for your new door. We’re talking keyless entry and nothing beats opening your door with an app or code. Imagine not having to dig through your purse for keys in the rain – genius, right?
3. Garden: Cut, Keep and Trim
Keeping your house front clean, painted and tidy can help improve curbside appealLandscaping isn’t always a good thing. Buried shrubs and trees hide squatters, but bare lawns don’t have character. The sweet spot? A neat, multiple use environment that balances function and art.
Think thorny shrubs under windows like holly or barberry: they’re deterrents. If you want a bit of wow factor then add some flowers or stones around the path. And don’t forget the grass! A green lawn makes your house look like a home.
Vertical gardens and potted plants can add interest to your yard without taking up too much space if you have a small yard. And for bigger yards consider a mini water feature like a fountain or birdbath that gives off a relaxed vibe and attracts birds and butterflies.
4. Move it with a Big House Number
Who would have thought numbers could do that? Big, modern house numbers are in, and instantly change your house.
But here’s the kicker: they’re practical too. If something goes wrong the police or fire department need to find your house fast. Choose metallic or backlit numbers to differentiate by day and night. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Depending on your style you can even create a custom number plaque to make it personal – a quirky design or bright colour can show off your personality without taking away from the overall look.
5. Fence It In
Fences protect animals and children; they’re your home’s first line of defence. The right design can make your property look elegant while making it less accessible.
Iron, wood or even horizontal slats can add height to your house’s facade. Ready to turn up the security? Add a lockable gate. Tip: Don’t put up big fences that block your view completely – you’ll want to see what’s going on around you.
Add climbing plants like jasmine or ivy to the fence for interest. They sanitise, add fantasy but they do break up the lines. Just make sure they’re easy to clean – you don’t want a mess on your hands.
6. Secure Windows and Install Beautiful Shutters*
Windows are the eyes of a house — and its vulnerabilities. Install impact resistant glass or security film to help with easy entry. And while you’re at it why not dress up the door with shutters?
It’s not just Southerners that use shutters these days. They keep out the rain and eye strain while giving you a warm, professional look. Try using colours that match your door or siding to add some interest.
Or if you don’t want shutters try window grilles. They’re cool, safe and make your house look a bit European. Match the hardware and you’ve got an insta-worthy upgrade.
7. Tech It Out: Smart Home Security Systems
If you’re still using that old “Beware of Dog” sign it’s time to get with the times. Home security systems today are your personal henchmen… only better.
Video doorbells, remote locks and phone connected cameras let you monitor your home from anywhere. And the mere sight of a camera will give would be thieves pause. Comfort and security in one sleek device? Yes please!
And those window and door sensors too. Many also include options for smart lights or thermostats so you can control your home’s atmosphere whether you’re inside or on the other side of the world.
8. Paint with Personality for Better Curbside Appeal
Add personality to your front door with colour and plants to add curbside appealPhoto by Thetravelgramist
Nothing can change a house more than a fresh coat of paint. When it comes to painting your front door a new colour or updating shutters and trim, colours are magic.
Dark, moody navy or forest green are trending but classic red or black never goes out of style. Add the right pots or a statement wreath to your door and you’re done.
If you really want to get fancy, paint your porch ceiling. A baby blue (or “haint blue”) is said to keep ghosts away in Southern mythology but if you’re not an esotericist it’s just pretty.
Style and Security Done Right – Improving Curbside Appeal and Security
You’re probably ready to get started now, right? Whether you’re replacing an old door with one of Ultra-Seal’s composite doors or adding lights and shrubs to your yard these tips will show you you don’t have to choose between style and security.
It’s not as hard as you think to turn your house into a work of art and a fortress, adding a touch of style to your curbside appeal. So get out your apron and your tool kit (or a contractor) and show off your home’s new confidence. After all, the grass isn’t always greener unless you water it.
FURTHER READING FOR HOMEOWNERS & PETOWNERS
At Housesit Match we like to offer useful and practical articles on topics for our readers such as this one on curbside appeal. In this selection we offer you a number of suitable pieces from our own blog on renovating and decorating a home.
Practical ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal
Travel inspired home décor ideas
