Preparing for an Exterior Remodel in 2025? 7 Essential Questions to Consider

With spring just around the corner, many homeowners are gearing up to refresh their home’s exterior. Whether you’re planning a full-scale renovation or a few strategic updates, a well-thought-out exterior remodel can enhance curb appeal, boost home value, and improve energy efficiency. But before diving in, there are several critical factors to consider to ensure a successful and stress-free project.

Here are seven key questions to ask before starting your exterior remodel in 2025.

1. What Is Your Budget—and Where Should You Prioritize Spending?

A well-defined budget sets the foundation for a successful remodel. Start by determining how much you’re willing to invest and identify which areas offer the best return on investment (ROI). Key factors to consider:

• High-Impact Updates: Siding replacement, new roofing, and high-quality trim tend to offer the best resale value.
• Energy-Efficient Upgrades: New windows, doors, and better insulation can lead to long-term savings.
• Curb Appeal Enhancements: Investing in modern siding materials, fresh paint, and upgraded exterior lighting can create a striking first impression.

Tip: Use the Edge Visualizer to preview materials and design elements before making final decisions.

2. What Materials Best Fit Your Climate and Lifestyle?

The right materials can make all the difference in durability, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Consider these factors:

• Wood vs. Composite: Natural wood, like Edge Thermally Modified Wood, offers a warm, organic feel, while composite materials require less maintenance.
• Weather Resistance: In high-moisture or wildfire-prone areas, look for materials that are WUI-compliant and resistant to rot and insects.
• Sustainability: Environmentally friendly options, such as thermally modified wood, offer longevity while reducing environmental impact.

3. Should You Hire a Contractor or Take a DIY Approach?

For many homeowners, hiring a professional is the best way to ensure a high-quality finish. However, smaller projects like painting, minor trim replacements, or installing shutters might be manageable as a DIY project.

When to Hire a Contractor:

• Structural changes (e.g., roof replacement, siding installation)
• Electrical or plumbing modifications
• Compliance with local building codes and permits

DIY-Friendly Updates:

• Painting or staining trim and siding
• Updating house numbers, outdoor lighting, and landscaping
• Installing exterior shutters or decorative accents

4. What Exterior Design Trends Are Shaping 2025?

Staying ahead of design trends can elevate your home’s aesthetic and ensure a lasting style. Some key 2025 exterior remodel trends include:

• Vertical Siding: Creates a modern, streamlined look while adding architectural interest.
• Tactile Diversity: Mixing textures like wood, stone, and metal for a balanced, high-end feel.
• Biophilic Design: Large windows, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
• Sustainable Choices: Investing in durable, eco-friendly materials that stand the test of time.

Curious about other trends we’re noticing? Check out our blog Top Design Trends for 2025

5. How Can You Maximize Curb Appeal with Small, Cost-Effective Changes?

Not every exterior remodel requires a massive budget. Small updates can have a big impact:

• Trim and Molding: Adding or refreshing exterior trim can define architectural details and create a polished look.
• Front Door Refresh: A new front door or fresh coat of paint can be a striking focal point.
• Updated Lighting: Modern, energy-efficient exterior lighting enhances safety and ambiance.
• Landscaping Enhancements: Simple changes like adding planters, updating mulch, or installing pathway lighting can elevate curb appeal.

Looking for inspiration? Check the end of this post for real-life projects that showcase how homeowners used thoughtful material selection and design to elevate their homes.

6. Are You Considering Long-Term Maintenance?

Choosing the right materials and finishes for your exterior remodel isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance. Here are some key considerations:

• Pre-Finished Siding & Trim: Factory-applied finishes last longer and require less upkeep compared to on-site painting or staining.
• Authentic Materials and Natural Aging: Wood, brick, and stone won’t look exactly the same as the day they were installed, but with proper maintenance, they will develop a rich patina that adds charm and character over time.
• Weathering as a Design Choice: Unlike synthetic materials that retain a uniform appearance, authentic materials age in response to the environment, offering a natural, lived-in aesthetic that many homeowners appreciate.

Additionally, homeowners should consider maintenance schedules for various exterior components. A well-planned routine—such as periodic washing of siding, sealing wood surfaces, and inspecting caulked joints—can extend the lifespan of your remodel and protect your investment for decades to come.

7. How Can You Visualize Your Remodel Before Making Final Decisions?

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face is envisioning how changes will look before committing to them. That’s where Edge’s Visualizer tool comes in. This powerful AI-driven tool allows you to:

• Experiment with different materials, colors, and styles
• Upload a photo of your home to see real-time design transformations
• Compare design options side by side before making a decision

Try the Visualizer today to confidently plan your exterior remodel.

Bonus Case Studies: How Real Homeowners Transformed Their Exteriors

Lazy Lane Project – A Modern Yet Timeless Flip

Lauren Ahrens and Lincoln Edwards of Austin Flipsters transformed a lackluster house into a standout modern design using Edge Thermally Modified Wood Collection. Their approach focused on mixed materials, utilizing both Black Forest and VG Hemlock siding to create contrast and depth. The result? A home that defies the “cheap flip” stereotype with materials designed to age gracefully while adding curb appeal.

Modern Mountain Design – Harmonizing Nature and Architecture

Boise-based builders Prominent Homes and Blackstone Homes brought modern mountain style to life by blending thermally modified wood with stone and steel. Large windows and indoor-outdoor transitions define their builds, ensuring a seamless connection with nature. This approach not only enhances the home’s aesthetics but also improves longevity in harsh climates.

The Rosabelle – A Legacy Lake House Built to Last

Jean Stoffer’s Rosabelle project along Lake Michigan was designed to blend tradition with modern craftsmanship. Featuring Thermally Modified Wood VG Hemlock ceilings, the home’s natural wood features add warmth while ensuring long-term durability. The project is a testament to the power of thoughtful material selection in creating a family legacy home.

Start visualizing your exterior remodel today! 

Use the Visualizer to explore endless design possibilities and make informed choices for your 2025 renovation.

Ready to start your project? Find where to buy.