How to cheaply update the facade of a house: tips and tricks

Updating the facade of a house is not only a way to improve the appearance of your home but also an opportunity to enhance its energy efficiency and market value. At the same time, a complete replacement or extensive facade work can become very costly. In this article, we will discuss how to cheaply update the facade of a house, what to pay attention to during the planning process, where to save, and where it is better not to economize. We will also share options for budget finishing, tips for preserving the facade of an old house, and tricks that will help you achieve a stylish result on your own.

Useful videos on the topic that I recommend watching

1. Planning and budgeting

1. Start with a clear plan. Determine what result you want to achieve and assess the scale of the work. Pay special attention to the renovation of the facade of an old house, as additional difficulties may arise related to the condition of the walls and foundation.
2. Create a detailed estimate. Consider all potential costs:
   • Materials (plaster, paint, thermal insulation boards, etc.).
   • Payment for specialists’ work (if necessary).
   • Rental of tools (if you are doing the facade renovation yourself but do not have specialized equipment).
3. Leave a contingency budget. This will help cover unforeseen expenses that often arise during facade updates, especially if hidden defects (cracks, moisture in the walls, etc.) need to be addressed.

2. Choosing materials: how to finish the facade of a house

1. Paint and plaster. One of the most budget-friendly ways to update the facade of a house is to use facade plaster or paint. For a budget facade, consider choosing:
   • Mineral plaster: inexpensive, weather-resistant, and allows vapor to pass through well.
   • Silicate paint: has good protective properties, resistant to mold and mildew, but is slightly more expensive.
2. Decorative facade tiles or siding. If you want a more interesting look or improved thermal insulation:
   • Siding (vinyl or metal): easy to install and maintain, can give the house a modern look.
   • Decorative tiles that mimic brick or stone: can look very stylish but require precision in installation and sometimes enhanced wall insulation.
3. Natural materials (wood, stone). For those who value eco-friendliness and naturalness. However, keep in mind that wood requires regular treatment against pests and moisture, and natural stone can be costly not only in purchase but also in installation.
4. Reclaimed or used materials. If you are planning a budget facade for your house, pay attention to stores that sell reclaimed building materials. You can find siding, boards, paint, etc., at discounted prices.

3. Dismantling the old facade: how to update the facade of a house without unnecessary expenses

• Assess the condition of the existing covering. If the old finishing (for example, plaster) is suitable for further use or restoration, do not rush to completely dismantle it. Partial repairs can be much cheaper.
• Be sure to remove any peeling. If the facade has areas that are flaking or falling off, they need to be removed; otherwise, the new covering will not adhere properly.
• Check the walls for moisture or mold. This is very important, especially for old houses. First, eliminate the source of moisture, and then proceed to the finishing work.

4. Installation technology: how to do the facade of a house yourself

1. Surface preparation. After dismantling the old layer, clean and level the surface, and if necessary, fill in any cracks and apply a primer for better adhesion.
2. Installation of thermal insulation (if necessary). If the facade is not insulated, this is a good opportunity to install mineral wool or polystyrene boards. This will improve the energy efficiency of the house and reduce heating costs.
3. Finishing work. Apply the chosen material (plaster, paint, siding, etc.) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To save money, you can try to finish the facade of the house yourself, but keep in mind: if you lack experience, it is better to consult a specialist or review training materials.

5. Tricks to reduce the budget when creating a facade

1. Using reclaimed or used materials. Look for sales at building supermarkets or specialty stores with reclaimed materials.
2. Completing tasks on your own. If you have basic repair skills, you can do part of the work (preparing walls, priming, painting, etc.) yourself.
3. Buying materials on sale or in the off-season. Many companies reduce prices at the end of the season or before a new shipment of goods.
4. Simple designs instead of complex solutions. The fewer decorative elements and complex geometric shapes, the cheaper the result will be — both in materials and labor.

6. Options for facade finishing: style and savings

1. Minimalist style: simple lines, monochromatic painting, absence of unnecessary decorative details.
2. Scandinavian design: light pastel tones, wooden inserts that can be made in a “do it yourself” format.
3. Classic style: use of decorative cornices, applied elements, but it is important to carefully select materials and perform the work well to avoid exceeding the budget.
4. Eco-style: use of natural wood, stone, or greening the facade. Remember that such surfaces require regular maintenance, so consider this in your budget.

7. Care and maintenance of the facade: how to preserve the result for a long time

1. Regular inspection. Check the facade twice a year: in spring and autumn. Timely detection of minor defects (cracks, peeling paint) is easier and cheaper to fix.
2. Cleaning and washing. Remove dust, cobwebs, and dirt to keep the facade looking neat. If necessary, use specialized cleaning agents, but remember possible restrictions depending on the type of covering.
3. Repairing damages. If you notice that the facade is starting to absorb moisture or the paint is peeling, carry out cosmetic repairs as soon as possible. This will prevent larger expenses in the future.

Conclusion

A budget facade for a house is a completely achievable goal if you approach the project with a clear head and a solid plan. Properly selected materials, careful attention to the condition of the walls, competent execution of work on your own (or involving specialists only for complex stages), and regular maintenance are the keys to success.

• How to cheaply update the facade of a house? Choose affordable and durable materials, buy them on sale, and do some of the work yourself.
• What to use to finish the facade of a house? A universal option is plaster or paint, siding, or decorative tiles. For a more luxurious look, you can use wood or artificial stone.
• How to design the facade of a house and update the facade of an old house? Pay attention to minimalist designs and eco-style. To avoid unnecessary expenses, first address any potential wall defects.

Evaluate your budget, follow our tips, and you will be able to update the facade of your house or modern home without significant financial losses and with maximum benefit for yourself.