Waukesha County Home

(StatePoint) — Want to make some serious exterior home upgrades that improve your safety and comfort, add beauty to your home and deliver a return on your investment? Here are five projects that do just that: 1. Install storm doors Storm doors give you the option of letting in more light and ventilation on fair weather days, while protecting your entry door from harsh conditions and weathering. Options from ProVia include retractable screens at the top and bottom for more venting options, as well as stylish designs and colors for instant curb appeal. 2. Get summer-ready Extend your home's outdoor living area just in time for summer — plus substantially increase your home value — with the addi- tion of a deck, patio or porch. Whether you add a small hibachi grill or get as involved as installing a full outdoor kitchen, be sure to include an area to prepare and enjoy meals. A few key touches, like string lights and potted plants, along with cozy furniture, can make the space feel homey. 3. Replace patio doors If your patio doors are drafty or get stuck easily, it may be time for an ENERGY STAR- certified replacement. Endure sliding glass patio doors from ProVia come standard with ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing, a high-tech glass packag. These doors have increased sound abatement and meet the most strin- gent industry standards for storm protection, ease of entry and forced entry. 4. Lower bills In summer, the shade that trees create can help keep your home cool. In winter, they can help block wind and prevent drafts. The Utah State University Forest Extension recom- mends locating trees no closer than 2.5 times their mature height to the south of a building to avoid winter shading. 5. Protect your home If you live in an area prone to extreme weather — heavy rain, hail, driving wind, frigid temperatures, or scorching heat — your home needs protection against the ele- ments. CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding pro- vides defense against these harsh conditions and improves energy efficiency as well. The insulation contributes to the rigidity of the panel, increases durability, and provides five times greater impact resistance over hollow siding, protecting against damage by hail, high winds, or contact with your child's fast- ball. MAY 2022 HOME 7 5 exterior home upgrades that pay off StatePoint Consider your home as your largest investment that you want to protect. Also find ways to lower expenses. Improving its looks wouldn't hurt either. Those are the basics behind five upgrades for your home's exterior.

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