If you have ever felt like your garage door could use a little makeover or the garage door area, you’re in luck! Today, I’m thrilled to walk you through five super quick updates that will transform your garage door area in just a few hours. Whether you’re living under the watchful eye of an HOA or just want to spruce up your home’s appearance, these easy DIY projects are just what you need.
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Why Update Your Garage Door Area?
Your garage door is one of the first things people see when they look at your home. Making it look good can not only increase your home’s charm but also its value—especially important if you’re considering selling. Plus, who doesn’t love a good DIY project that can be completed in one day?
Understanding The Scope Of The Area Around The Garage Doors
Your DIY for garage door curb appeal extends side to side, up and down around the door, and the area above the door and within the door frame. In many homes, what you see when you approach the home is the driveway area and the garage door area; together, they can affect the home’s curb appeal.
5 Fast Garage Door Area Updates Instantly Unlock Curb Appeal
Stay on task to increase the curb appeal, and make your garage door area updates help add value to your home. For anyone getting ready to sell their home, the more attractive the exterior looks, the more likely you are to attract potential buyers.
Check your garage door before you begin for telltale signs you need garage door repair
- the cables are not attached to the spring
- the door is not lining up
- there are gaps at the base where the door meets the ground
- The door makes screeching noises when it goes up or down
- The door keeps getting stuck when it is put or down
Once you settle the garage door issues, you can move on to cleaning the area as follows.
1. Clear the Clutter
Start by decluttering the area around your garage door. Remove any obstacles like garbage bins, bikes, or gardening tools. Make three piles: donate, keep, and toss. A clear workspace sets the stage for a stunning transformation.
You can’t dig in if the work area is congested with garages ranging from garbage cans, stuffed trash bags, planters, bikes, lawnmowers, etc. Once you clean up what is in the way, move it to the correct area (trash, donation pile, or in the garage itself) and move on.
#2 Garage Door Area Updates: Clean The Garage Door
You have a few choices for your DIY to help you clean the garage door.
- Use a sponge or microfiber clothes that are not abrasive
- Try a mixture of Dawn liquid with water (so that paint won’t be stripped)
- Use a long scrubbing pole (like for washing cars)
- Use a powerwasher to wash the garage door top to bottom and the inside trim. ( be careful not to strip paint)
If you scrub the door by hand, you will get a great workout, so elbow grease is a good idea. Don’t forget that before you do anything else to the garage door, you must let the entire area dry.
#2 Tend To The Landscaping Around The Garage
While your door dries, turn your attention to the landscaping.
- Pull any weeds on either side of the door and the driveway leading to the door
- If the lawn needs to be cut, do that now while the door is drying
- pull the planters apart, add fresh potting soil
- Paint the planters, if you have some, to freshen their appearance
- Trim the greenery that is by the garage doors or in the vicinity
- Mulch, if there is an area that is exposed and not planted, clean it up and appear fresh
Don’t forget to clean the gutter area as well!
Suggestions To Help Green Up The Landscaping Around the Garage Door
Greenery is always welcoming, and it matches any garage door.
- You can add shrubs, but they will need to be watered and trimmed
- you can add plants, but you will need to keep the weeds at bay
- Add planters with shrubs; make sure they are tall to add height to the sides of the garage door area.
- Consider fake bushes, trees, and plants that are safe outdoors.
- The greenery could double for holiday season decor when wrapped with lighting.
- Try rose bushes on the sides of your garage doors; they love the sun
- Roses are easy to maintain and trellis well (if you choose a trellising rose), adding a decorative touch
#3 Paint Trim Around Garage Door
Once dry, it’s time to paint the trim around your garage door. Choose a color that complements your home for a fresh, new look.
Painting the trim will freshen and enhance the garage door, making it look cleaner and stand out.
#4 Magnetic Handles Garage Decor
The magnetic handles for a garage door are amazing, and adding these to a door upgrades the door without having to replace the door. These are super easy to install and don’t require any tools—just stick them on, and you’re done! Powerful magnets, will they hold in place? No drilling, no screws, and nothing but magnetic attraction. This simple DIY makes a huge impact on how the garage door looks and it truly adds to the curb appeal.
#5 Light Up The Garage Door Area
Lighting can dramatically enhance the look of your garage door area at night and add a warm ambiance during the day. Solar lights are a great option because they’re easy to install and don’t require wiring. Place them around the garage door or along the pathway to create a welcoming path.
- Find solar side lights that attach to the area around or above the garage door. You won’t need an electrician if you use solar lighting.
- Remember, balance is key when you buy lights. Choose the lights to be large enough to provide light without being obnoxious.
- Don’t forget to light up the driveway or pathway that leads to the garage.
- There are flat solar discs that are perfect to put into the ground, and the lawnmower won’t hurt them.
- Conversely, try hanging solar-powered lighting for lighting gathered as the solar panel harnesses the power.
How To Upgrade Existing Fixtures Without Changing THem
If you already have exterior fixtures, let the light shine through.
- Clean all the glass on the exterior and interior; dirt makes lights lack curb appeal.
- Replace the bulb with an LED Bulb that saves you money when it is on and if you forget to turn it off!
- Consider painting the fixtures to clean them up if they look worn or faded.
Finishing Touches For Your Garage Door Area
- Driveway Maintenance: Ensure your driveway is as neat as your garage door. A well-maintained driveway enhances the overall look.
- For Asphalt: Consider sealing it for a fresh, revitalized appearance. Sealing helps protect against weather damage and improves curb appeal.
- For Concrete: A simple power wash can work wonders, removing grime and stains and giving it a renewed look. And remember to consider sealing the cement as well.
- Inspect and Replace Hardware: Check and replace any worn or rusty hardware on and around the garage door. This includes hinges, handles, and locks, ensuring everything functions smoothly and adds to the aesthetic appeal.
- Refresh Exterior Lighting: If your current outdoor lights look a bit dated or dingy, give them a quick clean or a new coat of paint. Upgrading to energy-efficient bulbs can also brighten the space while reducing electricity usage.
- Update Window Treatments: If your garage has windows, consider adding fresh curtains or blinds to enhance privacy and style. This small change can make a big difference in how the garage looks from both the inside and out.
Which Of The Fast Garage Door Area Updates Will You Use?
So, which of these fast garage door updates are you excited to try? Each one can be tackled quickly, and the results are sure to impress. Grab your supplies from your local home improvement store or order them online. A little effort goes a long way in boosting your home’s curb appeal.
You’ll love the new look of your garage door area! Transform the look from blah to ‘ah’! ~ Dana XO
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