Simple spruce-ups

This article is the archived version of a report that appeared in June 2009 Consumer Reports magazine.

Redo the details

Repainting the window trim, front door, and address number can freshen up your facade and enhance curb appeal, especially if you choose a color that pops. Sarah Susanka, author of the "Not So Big" series of books, suggests adding or emphasizing a belt line, a line of trim that divides the top and the bottom of the house, by painting it a contrasting color.

Scrub the exterior

Mildew, moss, and tree droppings can discolor otherwise stable roofs and siding. Scrub or pressure-wash siding. Treat outdoor mildew or mold stains with a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. But don't pressure-wash asphalt shingles because that can blast off the protective granules. Instead, remove stains with a soft brush and a bleach solution, rinsing gently with water.

Improve lighting

Make your property more inviting and secure with UL-certified fixtures over or around doorways. Low-voltage fixtures, placed every 8 to 10 feet, delivered the best light for pathways in our tests, and the installation is simple to do yourself.