SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Want to make some serious exterior home upgrades that improve your safety and comfort, add beauty to your home and deliver a return on your investment? Here are five projects that do just that:

1. Install storm doors:Storm doors give you the option of letting in more light and ventilation on fair weather days, while protecting your entry door from harsh conditions and weathering. There are many ways to customize this upgrade to meet your aesthetic and functional needs. Options from ProVia include retractable screens at the top and bottom for more venting options, as well as stylish designs and colors for instant curb appeal. Families might want to consider storm doors featuring heavy-duty, non-removable stainless steel screens ideal for keeping children and pets safely inside.

2. Get summer-ready: Extend your home’s outdoor living area just in time for summer -- plus substantially increase your home value -- with the addition of a deck, patio or porch. Whether you add a small hibachi grill or get as involved as installing a full outdoor kitchen, be sure to include an area to prepare and enjoy meals. A few key touches, like string lights and potted plants, along with cozy furniture, can make the space feel homey.

3. Replace patio doors: If your patio doors are drafty or get stuck easily, it may be time for an ENERGY STAR-certified replacement. Endure sliding glass patio doors from ProVia come standard with ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing, a high-tech glass package that measurably improves thermal performance for greater efficiency and reduced interior condensation. These doors also have increased sound abatement and meet the most stringent industry standards for storm protection, ease of entry and forced entry. Additionally, options for interior woodgrain and exterior paint colors, varying internal grid styles and patterns, and multiple choices for decorative glass, internal blinds and hardware allow for customization to fit your personal aesthetic.

4. Lower bills: Did you know that you can lower your bills and add natural beauty and privacy to your property by planting trees strategically? In summer, the shade that trees create can help keep your home cool. In winter, they can help block wind and prevent drafts. The Utah State University Forest Extension recommends locating trees no closer than 2.5 times their mature height to the south of a building to avoid winter shading. They also suggest knowing the size and other characteristics of a particular species before planting to avoid future problems, such as hitting power lines.

5. Protect your home: If you live in an area prone to extreme weather -- heavy rain, hail, driving wind, frigid temperatures, or scorching heat -- your home needs protection against the elements. CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding provides defense against these harsh conditions and improves energy efficiency as well. The insulation contributes to the rigidity of the panel, increases durability, and provides five times greater impact resistance over hollow siding, protecting against damage by hail, high winds, or contact with your child’s fastball. Color and beauty are also huge factors in this home improvement decision; CedarMAX offers many options to customize the look with both neutral and bold colors and coordinated accessories. It’s resistant to fading, chalking, cracking, peeling, and thermal expansion and contraction, making it a sound investment for years to come.

It’s important to see a tangible return on larger home upgrades. The best projects to consider are those that increase your home value, save you money, and add beauty and comfort to your home.

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