Don’t overlook the outside of a house as a great place to add more value.

Warmer weather is traditionally a time for cleaning and de-cluttering. And while “spring cleaning” efforts typically focus on the inside of a house, homeowners should also think about how they can spruce up the outside of their homes as well. Enhancing a home's exterior can add significant curb appeal and value for the homeowner.

Before beginning any home exterior projects, homeowners should consider the following:

• Budget—make sure it's realistic and stick to it.
• Goals—define the desired outcomes for the completed project. For example, is the main objective to increase the resale value of the home, or is it simply a much-needed remodeling?
• Sources—homeowners should consult reliable contractors, builders, architects and realtors for advice (and get tips from friends and neighbors too).

Reroofing is one common exterior project that increases a home's value. Sometimes homeowners are forced to put new roofs on their homes after weather or fire damage. They may also be facing expired warranties on the roofing material. And many homeowners today are reroofing simply to enhance the curb appeal of the home—even if it's not on the market.

There are several criteria to think about when choosing roofing material. Most important, does it have weather and fire resistance classifications? Also, what is the product warranty? A roofing material's aesthetic value should also be considered to ensure that it complements the home's design. In addition to traditional roofing materials such as asphalt, shake, slate or tile, composite roofing is an increasingly popular choice. Composite products, such as Lamarite® composite shingles, offer the look of real slate or wood shake shingles, but provide more durability and safety features.

Deck additions are another popular exterior project that can easily increase a home's value. Typically the centerpiece to a front or backyard, a deck is the foundation for creating an outdoor living space. If homeowners currently have decks, they should evaluate the condition and look of the material and consider an upgrade.

There are two primary types of decking material—natural wood or composite. Composites, such as the EverGrain® Vibrance Collection, offer the look and grain pattern of real wood with a 25-year limited warranty. Homeowners should choose a material that will complement the architecture and exterior style of their homes. Durability and low maintenance also are two important considerations for any deck. After all, a deck should be a source of rest and relaxation—not work.

Exterior home improvement projects are a smart investment. According to data from a recent survey conducted by national research firm Synovate for TAMKO Building Products, a leading building products manufacturer, more than 65 percent of homeowners look for roofing material that will make their roof look better and add curb appeal to their homes.

Furthermore, Remodeling magazine's 2006 Cost vs. Value Report states that homeowners can recoup 76.8 percent of the cost of a deck addition in home resale value. And, between 72.9 and 73.9 percent of midrange and upscale roofing replacement costs, respectively, can be recovered.

More than simply a “sprucing up” to add peace of mind, home exterior projects are a great way to add value for a homeowner.

Contact TAMKO for additional tips and strategies on how to increase home value.

©2007 TAMKO Building Products, Inc. TAMKO is a registered trademark of TAMKO Building Products, Inc. Lamarite and EverGrain are registered trademarks of Epoch Composite Products, Inc.