The exterior of our properties is all 99% of people will see of them: so it's vital that we put our all into making them stand out. Whether you're a new homeowner or you're eager to dress up an older property, it's important to take your time and create an exterior that will dazzle. 

These are the top renovations anyone should complete on their house before the new year hits.

1. Let Your Siding Give Your Home a New Look

Siding can change everything about a property. Not only the style but the color, material, and installation of it can vary how your property looks and the way people refer to it. 

It's a good idea to go with a trustworthy company that knows the importance of your siding having good insulation and awesome hidden ventilation that will give your property a seamless look. 

Updating your siding before the coldest months of the new year will help keep your heating bills low and will allow your home to stay as comfortable as possible. 

2. Create The Outdoor Kitchen of Your Dreams

Everyone wants to make their lawn feel like an extension of their home, and what better way is there to do that than by adding an outdoor kitchen? To give this space legitimacy, good counters and manufactured stone veneer siding are great ways to make the space feel valuable and impressive. 

Although you won't fully get to use this outdoor kitchen until the late spring to early summer, building it now is cheaper and will ensure you can use it the moment warmer weather settles in. There are also shorter lines for construction in the winter since most people focus their energy on updating these portions of their homes in the warmer months. 

This will let you get the most out of your outdoors when it really matters.

3. Design Incredible Walkways

Walkways are incredibly important in the winter. Although you may think it's just another space you'll have to shovel snow, they're safer and more predictable than just walking on snow-covered grass that can quickly turn to ice. 

Create walking paths that will give you easy access to your driveway, mailbox, garage, and any other part of your property that matters. 

4. Give Your Curb Appeal a Boost

If you're ready to change things up, it's time to update the front of your home! Your porch is one of the first points of contact anyone will have with your property, so it's a good idea to consider the new decor and porch ceiling ideas.

Minor amounts of gardening can be achieved in the winter, like aerating soil, planting bulbs, and pulling any dead trees. Beyond this, consider painting your porch or windows and even pressure washing any brick or stone on the exterior of your home. These small changes will add up in a big way.

5. Update Your Windows and Doors

Windows are a big deal, especially if your heating bill has been out of control. Regardless of what kind of windows your home has, it's a smart idea to do the candle test. Light a candle, carry it from window to door, ensuring they're closed, and watch the flame. If it flickers strongly towards or away from either of these openings, there's an air leak.

6. Add a Deck and Fencing to Boost Comfort

The cream of the crop for updated outdoor spaces is to add a gorgeous deck or fence. When paired with hog wire deck railing, your deck can be the main eye-catcher of your lawn. A well-cared-for and stained fence can do the same job.

The reason these are in the same category is that their care matters above all else, and the natural wood look will be incredibly popular in early 2023. Remember to seal these surfaces well and keep them maintained.

7. Check the Health of Your Roof

How old is your roof? The older it is, the more likely it needs to be replaced or repaired. Repairs can only get you so far, and if you put off a full replacement for too long, you could face major leaks and issues once your home goes through the freeze-and-thaw cycles of winter. 

Updating Your Home is a Winning Plan

Taking the time to renovate your home's exterior boosts its financial value, as well as its perceived importance, and will leave you the envy of the entire street. Take the time to do it right, and make your property stand out.

Consider contacting Kevin Szabo Jr. Plumbing for renovations, and their professionals will walk you through what materials are best for your property. 

Haley Reynolds is a freelance writer that loves sharing her knowledge and expertise on home and commercial remodeling. She lives in her hometown of El Paso, Texas where she enjoys spending time with her husband and crafting with her little girls. Haley’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource launching in 2023.