🔨 Small Weekend Projects That Add Value to Your Custom Home

Quick, impactful upgrades to boost curb appeal, comfort, and long-term value

You don’t need to tear down walls to refresh your custom home. With just a few weekend projects, you can give your space a noticeable upgrade that pays off in both pride and property value. Whether you're hosting family this summer or just want to enhance your home's charm, these ideas are simple, smart, and satisfying.

🧼 1. Power-Wash Your Exterior

Winter grime, moss, and mildew can dull your home’s appearance. A thorough power-washing revives your siding, walkways, and deck—instantly lifting curb appeal.

Pro Tip: Use a low-pressure nozzle on wood siding or soft surfaces to avoid damage. Test a small, hidden area first to be safe.

Hack: Rent a power washer from your local hardware store for less than $50/day—it’s cheaper than a cleaning crew and oddly satisfying!

🪵 2. Reseal Your Deck or Porch

Maine winters are tough on wood. Resealing protects your deck from moisture and UV rays, while also bringing out the natural grain and color.

Pro Tip: Clean the deck thoroughly and allow it to dry for 24–48 hours before applying a new sealant.

Hack: Use a paint pad or deck brush with a pole handle—it’s faster and gives a smoother finish than a roller.

🖼️ 3. Update Hardware for a Fresh Look

New cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and even light switch covers can instantly modernize your kitchen or bathroom—without breaking the bank.

Pro Tip: Measure hole spacing before buying new hardware so you don’t have to drill new holes.

Hack: Use painter’s tape to mock up different knob placements and styles before committing.

🌸 4. Add Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Boost your curb appeal with simple, sustainable landscaping. Native perennials and fresh mulch offer beauty with minimal upkeep.

Pro Tip: Use a weed barrier under mulch to keep beds looking clean all season.

Hack: Edge flower beds with bricks or metal edging for a clean, finished look that lasts.

💡 5. Upgrade Your Lighting

Lighting can change the whole mood of a room. Swapping out old fixtures or adding modern LED options can breathe new life into entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Pro Tip: Choose warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) for cozy areas like bedrooms and living rooms; cool white (4000K) for task lighting in kitchens or offices.

Hack: Use smart bulbs or plug-in timers for exterior lights—improve security and save energy at the same time.

🪟 6. Clean and Caulk Windows

Drafty windows not only raise your energy bills—they also let in moisture and dust. Resealing them is quick and cost-effective.

Pro Tip: Use a clear exterior-grade caulk for a neat finish that blends in, and clean the area with rubbing alcohol before applying.

Hack: For hard-to-reach windows, try a telescoping window cleaning kit with a squeegee and microfiber scrubber.

Ready to Roll Up Your Sleeves?

These weekend projects are small in effort but big in impact—especially when you make them part of your seasonal home care routine. As a custom home builder in Maine, Generations Custom Homes believes that maintaining your home should be just as rewarding as building it.

Need help prioritizing your to-do list or planning a bigger upgrade? Reach out to us anytime—we’re here to help you love where you live.