1979 Exterior Home Update

4 years ago

This house was built in 1979. We replaced our roof, soffits, and fascia in the last year, with the intentions of painting the entire house (brick and siding) the color of the soffits and fascia. But, we are second guessing ourselves. We've seen some houses with the brick painted white that look great and some that look terrible. Help. I'm attaching our house as it is with the new roof and fascia and soffits and images of our inspiration. We are inspired by a French Countryside look. We'd love to add that copper scroll above the front door. We are open to other options that white. But, the roof and soffits we have chosen are not going to change. We'd love your insight!

Comments (4)

HU-503098442
Original Author
4 years ago
Oh I hope I hear back from some of you. I’m at a loss. I’ve always been so decisive about how to update a house. But; this house stumps me. I’ll really appreciate your thoughts!!
cat_ky
4 years ago
It already reminds me of a french countryside. You have a lot of brick. It looks good. I would not paint it. Its a large house, and right now, its a bit maintenance free. I dont know how old you are, or how long you plan on living there, but, if you are planning on growing old there, keep that brick, and the low maintenance. You will be very happy you did.. Painting brick is another trend, that will most likely go out of fashion anyway. Brick is timeless. Because, its winter, its hard to tell about your landscaping, but, it looks a bit like it needs some attention. Put your money into that, rather than paint. Please remove that vine or whatever it is crawling up on the house. That can damage a house really fast, if left to grow, I cant really see your door, since it appears maybe its open on the picture. A nice bright color would look good there. I also cant tell if you have a light on that front porch, if you dont, then you really need to add some there.
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PRO
Norwood Architects
4 years ago
Yes to painting the brick but be warned that once painted brick can't be stripped down to the original brick finish. Would suggest painting your shutters too. Actually, would suggest replacing the shutters with real, operable ones probably in a board and batten style. I would consider adding a small entry porch. That isn't strictly a French style but it is practical and will relieve some of the flatness of the front facade. French houses often have dormers but so do colonial styles. Just as a general comment the landscaping needs some work as well.
Nidnay
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
I think it would look great painted white (or you could do a German Smear or limewash for less future maintenance).....though your home will look nothing like your inspiration photos because yours is a different style, even so, it could look great. I would replace the black downspouts and gutters (maybe) and I heartily agree with Norwood....different and appropriately sized shutters with hinges and shutter dogs will be a huge improvement. I say go for it.

Looks like some landscaping would improve things as well :)

Limewash.....

1979 Exterior Home Update

Comments (4)

HU-503098442
Original Author

cat_ky

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1979 Exterior Home Update

Comments (4)

HU-503098442Original Author

cat_ky

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Norwood Architects

Nidnay

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GET HELP

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HU-503098442
Original Author