The start of a new season signals a fresh start for New England homeowners. As the snow fades and green buds sprout about your lawn, people start thinking about renovating their homes, springing clean, and sprucing up their gardens. Meanwhile, you might be thinking about how you can enhance your coastal curb appeal for a true New England vibe.
However, some homeowners struggle to bring their coastal curb appeal vision to life. For those of you who are looking to spruce up your home this spring, consider these five ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
#1: Nantucket Anyone? How about Clam Shell Walkways & Driveways?
This front walkway is made out of clamshells. Although they aren’t comfortable to walk on they give a definite beachy vibe to your curb appeal.
You can find these at garden centers around the North Shore (Wolf Hill in Gloucester carries these during the summer months).
Walkways and driveways are a great way to add character and style to your home and give your outdoor space more purpose.
If your front or backyard entrance is lacking, try adding a shell walkway or paved path. Not only will visitors be impressed, but you will enjoy the extra space and cleanliness it provides.
Paved paths or walkways are great landscaping ideas for your front and back yards. They add depth and dimension to the outside of your home and an authentic coastal appearance. A shell pathway is an easy way to convert that bland entrance into something more decorative without the hassle of maintenance.
#2: Love the look of Coastal Curb Appeal in Grey? Try Pea Gravel Driveways
To go along the Coastal Grey theme, check out this driveway that you see all over the North Shore, especially in Manchester-by-the-Sea. Their casual vibe goes beautifully with our Preservation maintenance-free cedar-shingled houses.
They are an affordable option compared with paving costs. The granite blocks lining the driveway add a touch of tailored polish to the edges.
Pea gravel is the new black, and for good reason. What started out as a cheap alternative to concrete has become a popular alternative for driveways.
Not only is it less expensive than concrete, but it is also softer on the feet, reduces noise, and provides a nice texture for visual interest. Best of all, pea gravel lasts a while. But since it sinks into the soil, you may have to replace your pea gravel every 4 years.
#3: Add Coastal Color: Think Hydrangeas and Beach Roses
Hydrangeas and beach roses are easy-care options for your gardens. The very nature of them not being heavily pruned gives the same relaxed coastal feel that the gravel driveway and clamshell walkways have. They are a true Coastal Gem in my book!
The color of hydrangeas and beach roses can make an arrangement look instantly fresh and bright. They are perfect for making a statement in front yards, backyards, and garden spaces.
#4: Shut the front door! Love the Look of Nautical Door Knockers
If you are interested in adding a nautical touch to your home, consider installing nautical door knockers. These are decorative pieces designed to look like an antique wooden ship that knocks on the door as you approach.
You can pick these up at your local home improvement store or online. Etsy is another great place to find nautical door knockers and any other type of coastal decor.
An under $50 upgrade to your current door knockers like this one and this one would give any guest a nautical feel. I am crazy about that arched window above the door! And being that it is navy-well that’s my fav color! A win-win for me! Check out our beautiful superior doors.
#5: Love the look of Coastal Grey? Our Preservation Siding Shakes Cedar Shingles take the Cake!
Who wants to paint again? Not me! Want the look of cedar shakes without all the upkeep? Classic cedar shake siding dates back to Cape Cod-style cottages and can provide historical elegance and superior resistance to weather. This idea for bringing coastal style to your home is a popular exterior siding option.
This looks especially great paired with crisp white trim and a door in blues or greens. My favorite blue paint color right now is C2 Raindrop C2-720 and you can find it at Waters & Brown in Beverly or Salem.
Enjoy Zero-Maintenance Siding Shingles this Spring Season
Swapping our old cedar shakes with vinyl siding shingles gives you the look of wood without the maintenance. Best of all, you get to achieve your dream of coastal curb appeal without the worry of maintenance.
It’s a good idea to replace your old wood cedar shakes with vinyl if you are experiencing:
- Old wood rot on your cedar shakes. Vinyl can look just like the old shake but it is easier to maintain and will last for many years without moisture damage problems.
- The cedar shakes are peeling or chipping away.
- There is mold or mildew growing on the siding.
- Cedar shakes are falling off your home.
- Your cedar shakes cannot withstand the elements of New England, especially our harsh, cold, and wet winters.
#6: Achieve Coastal Curb Appeal with James Hardie Shingle Shakes
An instant upgrade for coastal decor is choosing Hardie shingle siding. Shingle siding is often associated with Cape Cod-style homes but can add instant character to any exterior.
Hardie shingle siding provides you with the lifelike appearance of cedar shakes with less maintenance. Best of all, you’ll score a timeless appearance that’s appealing to coastal homes.
Meanwhile, add an extra dimension to your exterior with Hardie Shingle Siding in a staggered appearance. This brings true wow-factor to your home that will never go unnoticed, especially in terms of coastal curb appeal!
Get Your Dream Coastal Curb Appeal this Spring
Spring is the perfect time to book for new coastal curb appeal. We have in-stock vinyl siding, installed in as little as 2 weeks! Meanwhile, our Hardie shingle shakes are off the charts for enhancing your home with coastal allure. Contact us now for a free estimate on vinyl siding and more.
