First impressions COUNT
Stained timber fencing always looks good, while new anti-graffiti paints . . . are effective at beating taggers.
It might be an over-used cliche but, when it comes to our homes, first impressions really do count and if you’ve recently renovated inside, it seems a shame not to pay attention to the street-appeal aspects of your property.
Sometimes, simply reducing clutter can make your house and its surroundings look a whole lot better.
If you have a family, chances are there are toys lying around, and most of us have a few random pots with half-dead plants.
Take these out of the equation for a start and the rest will begin falling into place.
Often, the first thing guests or passers-by will see is your letterbox, and with many modern options on the market it could be time to ditch an shabby old one or renew it with a fresh stain or paint. Ensure that it has big, clear numbering, as this will also assist emergency services, should they need to access the property.
Karen Warman from Resene suggests paying attention to the gate and front door too — perhaps taking the opportunity to paint them in a bright new colour so that they stand out, using a high-gloss finish for extra drama.
Fixing problems such as peeling paint and blocked gutters is the logical next step, and having a house professionally chem-washed can make it look near-new again.
FENCING
Fencing is another area that is sometimes side-lined while property owners concentrate on projects elsewhere, but, like your letterbox, it’s a first-glance thing — as well as a necessary security precaution.
Stone fences are currently enjoying a huge surge in popularity and while they’re expensive, they require little upkeep and will last forever.
Stained timber fencing always looks good, while new anti-graffiti paints such as Resene Uracryl GraffitiShield are effective at beating taggers. Another recent arrival on the market is PVC and composite fencing, which is good-looking, longlasting, weatherproof and maintenance free.
If budget is an issue, bamboo brushwood fencing materials are available at big hardware stores. They have a limited lifespan but can look very effective — especially with a native themed garden.
Of course, professional landscaping can make a huge difference to the appearance of your property and if you can possibly afford it, getting an expertly designed scheme is a worthwhile investment — even if it’s just the planning and initial implementation — for you to manage it by yourself in future.
Landscape designers can often see potential that you might have missed.
Subtropical plantings are very well-suited to Auckland’s climate and many plants, such as banana palms, for example, grow quickly — especially in summer when the garden looks lush and exotic.
If you want a structured sort of layout, ask the designer about using Moorish-influenced patterned tiles for paving front yards and patios. They are eye-catching and exotic when surrounded by huge pots of colourful foliage.
If you’re on a budget, painting terracotta pots is easy and effective.
It’s hard to underestimate the importance of keeping paths and driveways free from potentially dangerous slippery moss and other nasties.
Products targeting this problem include Resene Deep Clean, which is simply sprayed on — then left to do its work.
NIGHT GARDEN
Installation of outdoor lighting is another way to make your house stand out, and look welcoming at night. Garden lighting, highlighting trees and plants, can be a very effective way of enhancing the appearance of your property and fairy lights aren’t just for Christmas, adding a magical element all-yearround.
If you have a front veranda, turn- ing it into an outdoor room is easy with the addition of appropriate furniture and accessories.
Very soon the shops will be full of colourful hard-wearing outdoor chairs, couches, cushions and rugs so keep an eye on those letterbox mailers and get in early if you can.