Low maintenance products can create a stunning home exterior.

You can’t judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a home by its exterior. And, with warmer weather comes thoughts of outdoor home improvement projects.

If you’re looking to boost your house’s curb appeal this season, think about adding color from top to bottom.

“Homeowners shouldn’t be afraid of color. Contrasting colors, complementary colors and color accents on a home, when done right, can all add tremendously to the curb appeal of a house,” says national color expert Kate Smith, CMG and owner of Sensational Color.

This season Smith is offering some top-to-bottom tips to homeowners ready for bold change:

The Roof

If your roof appears old and dingy, is leaking or wearing thin, it’s time to research replacement options. Consider durable synthetic slate or shake tiles in a variety of hues. For example, DaVinci Roofscapes offers 49 roof colors along with 28 standard color blends.

“Selecting roofing colors that complement the rest of the home helps your eye move from the top down,” says Smith. If you’re overwhelmed by the choices, a free “Fresh Exteriors Color” guide is available for download atsensationalcolor.com.

The windows

Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance vinyl replacement or new construction windows, add a splash of color to complement your home’s exterior and interior as well. A bold color contrast, like red window frames against crisp white trim pieces is a classic eye-catching look.

“A window is like a two-sided canvas,” says Smith. “The colors on the frame exteriors enhance the home’s overall appearance from the street. And, when you get inside and select stylish woodgrain frame interiors, you’re adding beauty to the room settings. That’s a ‘win-win’ experience for any homeowner.“

The Decorum collection by Simonton Windows for example, provides a variety of custom color options like brick, chocolate, bronze and pine green.

The door

The door to your house should make a statement. A door with a smooth paintable surface, made with low-maintenance fiberglass, allows you to make a new statement as often as you’d like. For example, Therma-Tru’s Classic Craft Canvas Collection has these features, as well as wide center panels and rich embossment details that rival high-end custom wood doors.

To further enhance the entryway to your home, consider installing decorative glass inserts in the door. Then, flank the door with a set of easy-to-install Fypon urethane pilasters, a stylish crosshead and pediment. Resistant to moisture, insects, rot and humidity, both the urethane trim and fiberglass entry door are great low-maintenance solutions to adding curb appeal for the home.

From top to bottom, color and detail can give your home a bold, stylish makeover. : :