Looking to update your home this summer? We take a look at some simple changes that can add maximum impact to your home.

As the sun starts to shine, and the cold crisp mornings slowly turn towards warmth, many homeowners will be summertime dreaming. So, what are some simple and cost-effective ways to breathe new life into your home and spruce up the old ready for the summer shine?

Paint

A new lick of paint around the home can do wonders for uplifting the look and feel of your indoor or outdoor space. For cladded homes this is a must as your home needs regular maintenance and painting to keep the cladding in good condition. Painting your home is also a great way to monitor and fix any existing issues such as surface cracks. Things to consider:

·      Colour – be weary of going too out there with colour as when trends change, so will the appeal of your home. Also remember that darker colours on outside surfaces will get hot during the blistering summer. For indoor spaces consider feature walls to add an element of focus and interest.

·      Weather - some paints are suitable to paint during cooler weather and some during warmer weather.  Always paint during the cooler part of the day to prevent your brush from drying mid stroke. Avoid painting aluminium gutters in the sunshine unless it is a very cool day.

·      Paint – ensure you get the right paint for the job. Cladded homes will require specialised paint. Talk to the experts and get the right paint for the texture you are painting and if indoor or outdoor use.  Follow the manufacturers advice on how to correctly stir, store and apply the paint to get the best finish.

Calling in a professional painter can ensure you have the correct paint, and also take the stress out of the finish and look. Your professional can also advise on colour and amounts needed to get the job done.

Deck

Thinking of getting some top-quality decking solutions for around your home? It is advised that you speak with the experts and employ an experienced builder for your decking needs. They will be able to provide you with the best possible solution for your dream project, and more importantly ensure that your deck is safe and will stand the test of time. They will also advise if wood, or the new generation plastic decking will work for your needs, plus add all the important aspects including stairs, ramps and lighting.

For existing decks, and good clean and oil will bring your old tired deck back to life. There is a wonderful array of products available on the market that can clean, oil and refurb your deck and restore it to its former glory. The best advice is to get this done with plenty of time before the Summer BBQ season kicks into full swing.

Outdoor Furniture

A lick of paint, and freshly oiled deck and a new outdoor lounge can really add that WOW factor for your entertaining area. Adding new life and giving an old area a new interesting and fresh feel.

For existing wooden tables and chairs, a good rubdown with linseed oil can bring that tired table back to life. Just remember to rinse the oily rag well, allow to dry, before throwing away. Never leave it wrapped with the linseed oil as it can self-combust leading to a possible fire.

Cleaning plastic chairs and tables with a high-pressure water blaster can remove stains and rejuvenate for another year.

It’s time to get ready for all that summer fun! Looking for an ever-bigger project? A new outdoor area? Kitchen or bathroom renovation? Pool area? Your imagination is the limit. Give Cowan Building a call today for some professional advice on how to bring that WOW factor to your home.