Choosing the correct exterior paint finish is crucial for a beautiful home transformation. Consider options like DWIL Matte Finish Paint for wood, which offers eco-friendly, quick-drying performance. Delta Creative Varnish provides a smooth protective coat suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Rust-Oleum’s Alpine Gray Paint dries rapidly and is resistant to chipping. INSL-X Tough Shield Paint is tough enough for floors and patio surfaces. For great coverage, opt for Krylon Acrylic Latex Paint in Satin White. Keep in mind that each finish serves different needs and styles, ensuring that your home stands out with the perfect color and protection.
Key Takeaways
- Consider durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal for a stunning home makeover.
- Evaluate glossiness, ease of application, and maintenance requirements.
- Choose finishes based on surface material compatibility and desired sheen level.
- Assess coverage, hiding capabilities, and protection against elements.
- Select exterior coatings based on surface type, weather conditions, and maintenance durability.
DWIL Outdoor Paint for Wood – Matte Finish Exterior Paint (BLACK)
For those seeking a sleek and modern look for their outdoor wood surfaces, the DWIL Outdoor Paint for Wood in Matte Black finish is the ideal choice. This water-based formula isn't only eco-friendly but also specially designed for outdoor wood repair.
The paint offers quality assurance with its fast drying and waterproof performance, ensuring a long-lasting finish. Users have praised its ease of application and durability, making it a convenient option for wood refinishing projects.
The 1-quart size provides enough coverage for approximately 50 sq.ft of surface area, with a full cure time of just 2 hours. With its washable feature and all-inclusive kit for painting projects, customers have found this DWIL outdoor paint to be of high quality and excellent value.
Best For: Those looking for a durable and easy-to-apply outdoor paint for wood surfaces that offers a sleek matte black finish.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly water-based formula
- Fast drying and waterproof performance
- All-inclusive kit for painting projects
Cons:
- 2-hour wait time between coats may be inconvenient for some users
- Limited color options available
- May require multiple coats for desired coverage
Delta Creative Satin Finish Exterior/Interior Varnish, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
The Delta Creative Satin Finish Exterior/Interior Varnish, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) offers a durable protective coating that enhances the longevity of paint projects, making it an excellent choice for those seeking long-lasting results in their home makeovers.
This specially formulated polyurethane varnish is designed for both indoor and outdoor use over Ceram coat Acrylic Paint. Users have reported that it works exceptionally well on wood and paper projects, providing a smooth, hard finish that preserves the paint job effectively.
The varnish is easy to clean with soap and water, making maintenance a breeze. With its ability to withstand varying weather conditions, this varnish is ideal for outdoor projects.
For best results, lightly sand between coats and thin with water if needed. This product is highly recommended by users for its quality, consistency, and durability.
Best For: Ideal for artists and DIY enthusiasts looking for a durable and protective varnish to enhance and preserve their paint projects.
Pros:
- Provides a smooth and hard protective finish for wood and paper projects
- Easy to clean up with soap and water
- Suitable for outdoor projects in varying weather conditions
Cons:
- May require light sanding between coats for best results
- Thinning with water for desired consistency may be necessary
- Limited to a satin finish variant and 8 fl oz bottle size
Modern Masters Passionate Front Door Paint, 1 qt
A standout feature of the Modern Masters Passionate Front Door Paint, 1 qt, is its vibrant color options that cater to homeowners seeking to make a bold statement with their exterior home makeover.
This water-based formula is suitable for both interior and exterior metal or wood surfaces, offering durability and a smooth satin finish.
With quick drying time and coverage of up to 100 sq. ft., this paint utilizes Never-Fade technology to maintain long-lasting beauty.
When applying, consider using tools like the Purdy Angular Trim Dale Brush or the Shur-Line Foam Mini Roller for efficient coverage.
Customers have praised this paint for its durability, color choices, and overall performance, making it a popular choice for those looking to revamp their front doors with a modern and vibrant touch.
Best For: Homeowners looking to make a bold statement with their exterior home makeover while seeking durability and vibrant color options.
Pros:
- Quick drying time and coverage of up to 100 sq. ft.
- Utilizes Never-Fade technology for long-lasting beauty
- Suitable for interior and exterior metal or wood surfaces
Cons:
- May require multiple coats for certain colors
- Some users found the paint to be slightly thick in consistency
- Higher price point compared to standard paints
Rust-Oleum 369387 Advanced Dry Door & Trim Paint, Quart, Satin Alpine Gray
Ideal for those seeking a quick drying, chip resistant paint option, the Rust-Oleum 369387 Advanced Dry Door & Trim Paint in Satin Alpine Gray is a versatile choice for updating doors and trim indoors and outdoors. This water-based formula boasts a low odor and dries to the touch in just 45 minutes, making it a convenient option for those looking to complete a project efficiently.
The chip resistant coating provides ultimate protection, ensuring a long-lasting finish. With 6 pre-mix color options available, including the elegant Satin Alpine Gray, this paint is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use on metal and wood surfaces. Users praise its mildew-resistant, fade-resistant, and chip-resistant properties, making it an excellent choice for front and back doors, cabinets, and vanities.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a quick-drying, chip-resistant paint for updating indoor and outdoor doors and trim with a durable satin finish.
Pros:
- Fast drying time of 45 minutes to touch
- Chip-resistant coating for long-lasting protection
- Suitable for use on both metal and wood surfaces
Cons:
- Limited to 6 pre-mix color options
- Requires 2 coats for optimal coverage
- May not be suitable for all surfaces
INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint, Saddle Brown, 1 Gallon
For those seeking a durable and versatile paint option for enhancing their outdoor spaces, consider the INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint in Saddle Brown.
This waterborne, acrylic enamel paint comes in a 1-gallon container and offers a durable satin finish that resists detergents, oils, greases, and scrubbing. Suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces like masonry, concrete, and wood, this paint covers 350 to 450 square feet per gallon.
With application temperatures above 50°F, proper preparation and application tips are provided on the label for ease of use. Customers praise its durability, easy application, good coverage, and color accuracy.
From attic floors to front concrete patios, this paint has proven effective in various use cases, making it a reliable choice for your next painting project.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting paint option for both interior and exterior surfaces like masonry, concrete, and wood.
Pros:
- Durable satin finish that resists detergents, oils, and scrubbing
- Easy application with good coverage
- Suitable for novice painters with color choices and accuracy
Cons:
- May require proper surface preparation for optimal results
- Limited color choices compared to other brands
- Cleaning may require more effort in high-traffic areas
Rust-Oleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, Semi-Gloss Clear (Pack of 1)
The Rust-Oleum Painters Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint in Semi-Gloss Clear is a versatile option suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects, providing a durable finish with low odor and chip resistance. This aerosol spray paint, with a coverage of 12 sq. ft., is ideal for surfaces like ceramic, masonry, metal, plastic, and wood.
Users appreciate its oil-based formula, which offers chip resistance and long-lasting protection. With a semi-gloss finish, this paint adds a soft shine to surfaces and dries to touch in just 20 minutes. The any-angle spray feature and comfort spray tip enhance ease of application.
To achieve best results, it's recommended to shake the can thoroughly before use and work in well-ventilated areas. Users have successfully repainted various items with this spray paint, benefiting from its one-coat coverage and color accuracy.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking for a durable and versatile spray paint for indoor and outdoor projects.
Pros:
- Superior coverage for faster project completion.
- Chip resistance and long-lasting protection.
- Quick drying time and one-coat coverage for efficiency.
Cons:
- Some users experienced tackiness and strong odor after application.
- Certain surfaces may require priming for better adhesion.
- Overspray can be an issue if not used carefully in well-ventilated areas.
Rust-Oleum 7776730 Protective Enamel Paint, 8-Fl Oz, Flat Black(Pack of 1)
An excellent option for those seeking a durable and versatile exterior paint finish is the Rust-Oleum 7776730 Protective Enamel Paint in Flat Black. This weather and corrosion-resistant coating is suitable for a variety of surfaces including wood, metal, and concrete.
Its oil-based formula offers excellent rust prevention, drying in 2-4 hours and covering up to 55 sq ft per 8-fl oz can. The flat finish helps minimize imperfections while providing abrasion, fading, and chipping resistance.
Users have reported positive experiences using this paint on exterior wooden doors, metal railings, and even RV trailer frames. While some have noted minor issues like dust attraction and clumping, overall satisfaction with the durability and quality of this product is prevalent.
It's a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor projects, offering a smooth and matte finish that stands up well against harsh weather conditions.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts looking for a durable and weather-resistant paint for various surfaces.
Pros:
- Excellent rust prevention with oil-based formula
- Abrasion, fading, and chipping resistant
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use on wood, metal, and concrete
Cons:
- Minor issues with dust attraction
- Mixed reviews on product quantity and clumping
- Varied opinions on consistency and finish
THE ONE Paint & Primer: All-in-One Furniture Paint
Ideal for homeowners seeking a versatile and durable furniture paint solution, THE ONE Paint & Primer in Gloss White offers a non-toxic, water-based formula with rich pigments suitable for a wide range of interior and exterior projects.
This 8.45 Fl Oz product by THE ONE provides a glossy finish that enhances the aesthetic appeal of furniture, wood, laminate cabinets, crown molding, trim, metal, plastic, brick, stone, and even concrete. With a coverage of 32 square feet, this paint is waterproof and fast-drying, ensuring a quick turnaround time for your projects.
Customers have praised its thickness, coverage, and ease of application, making it a popular choice for various surfaces. Whether you're revamping indoor furniture or sprucing up outdoor fixtures, THE ONE Paint & Primer is a reliable option for your painting needs.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a versatile and durable furniture paint solution for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Pros:
- Non-toxic, water-based formula
- Rich pigments for vibrant colors
- Quick drying time for efficient project completion
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on the brightness of the white color
- Some users may find the coverage lacking for certain surfaces
- Limited color options in gloss finish
General Finishes Water Based Milk Paint, 1 Quart, Basil
For those seeking a highly durable and easy-to-use exterior paint finish, General Finishes Water Based Milk Paint in the shade Basil offers a self-sealing option that requires no topcoat.
This furniture paint is suitable for both interior and exterior use, making it a versatile choice for various projects. With the ability to be applied on raw wood or prepped finishes using a roller, brush, or sprayer, it offers flexibility in application methods.
Users have reported that it's forgiving, dries flat, and maintains its finish quality over time. The paint provides excellent coverage with just two coats and dries quickly.
Positive feedback on color and finish, along with comparisons to other brands, highlight the overall satisfaction customers have experienced with General Finishes Water Based Milk Paint in Basil.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and furniture painters looking for a highly durable and forgiving exterior paint finish without the need for a topcoat.
Pros:
- Self-sealing formula eliminates the need for a topcoat
- Versatile application methods with roller, brush, or sprayer
- Excellent coverage with just two coats
Cons:
- Light color paints may yellow with topcoat application
- Avoid clear topcoats over bright white paint to prevent yellowing
- Limited range of color options in the Basil shade
Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Latex Brush On Paint, Satin White
With its premium coverage, durability, and smooth application, the Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Latex Brush On Paint in Satin White is a versatile choice for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking to revamp their indoor or outdoor spaces. This brush-on paint offers superior color adhesion and durability on various surfaces, making it ideal for a wide range of projects.
Its classic satin white color with a subtle sheen provides a sleek and elegant finish, perfect for giving a fresh look to your home. The easy application process guarantees a smooth finish, and cleanup is a breeze with just soap and water.
With a quick drying time of one hour, you can quickly enjoy the results of your painting efforts. Trusted by customers for its smooth application, quick drying, and ease of cleanup, the Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Latex Brush On Paint in Satin White is a top choice for your painting needs.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking to revamp indoor or outdoor spaces with a versatile and durable brush-on paint.
Pros:
- Offers premium coverage and superior color adhesion on various surfaces.
- Classic satin white color with a subtle sheen for a sleek finish.
- Easy application process with quick drying time and simple soap and water cleanup.
Cons:
- Requires cleanup with lacquer thinner.
- Limited color offering compared to other products.
- May not provide optimal coverage on highly textured surfaces.
RECOLOR Eco-Friendly Exterior Premium Latex Paint for Walls, Siding and Trim
The RECOLOR Eco-Friendly Exterior Premium Latex Paint in Eggshell finish is a top choice for homeowners seeking a durable and environmentally conscious option to enhance the appearance of their home's exterior. This paint, made by a women-owned company in the USA, is eco-friendly, with recycled content and low VOC levels. It's suitable for various surfaces like wood, concrete, vinyl, and aluminum siding.
Customers have praised its washable and durable qualities, as well as its coverage and color matching. While there have been some comments on consistency and coverage variations, overall satisfaction with the paint's outcome is high. The paint can be used as a topcoat or primer, with a dry time of 2-6 hours and easy cleanup using soap and water.
Best For: Homeowners looking for an eco-friendly exterior paint option that offers durability and good coverage.
Pros:
- Made from recycled content and low in VOC
- Suitable for various exterior surfaces
- Washable and durable finish
Cons:
- Some variability in consistency and coverage
- Issues with delivery time reported
- May require mixing from different batches for uniform color
Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint Stops Rust, 32-Ounce, White Satin Finish
A durable and weather-resistant option suitable for protecting both interior and exterior surfaces, the Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint in White Satin Finish is ideal for homeowners looking to enhance their home's appearance with a long-lasting coat.
This 32-ounce paint offers a weather and corrosion-resistant coating that can be applied to a variety of surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, and masonry. Its oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating that helps prevent rust.
With a drying time of 2-4 hours and coverage of up to 100 sq. ft., this paint provides excellent resistance to abrasion, fading, and chipping. The satin finish gives a low-sheen look, making it a popular choice for those seeking a professional and lasting finish for their renovation projects.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a durable and weather-resistant paint for enhancing both interior and exterior surfaces with a long-lasting coat.
Pros:
- Weather and corrosion resistant coating
- Durable protective coating for rust prevention
- Excellent resistance to abrasion, fading, and chipping
Cons:
- Strong odor during application
- Some users find it expensive compared to other brands
- Longer drying time may be a drawback for some projects
Prestige Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Semi-Gloss, Key Largo Match
For homeowners seeking a high-quality exterior paint with excellent coverage and a quick drying time, the Prestige Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Semi-Gloss in Key Largo Match is a top choice. This paint offers a high hiding formula that guarantees outstanding coverage, often requiring only two coats for a flawless finish.
Made of 100% acrylic latex, it allows for easy clean-up and has low VOC levels, making it an environmentally friendly option. Customers have praised its quick drying properties and beautiful Key Largo color, which is comparable to Behr Key Largo.
Many reviews highlight its efficient coverage, with some finding one coat sufficient for a room. While some users noted minor challenges like difficulty opening the can lid, overall satisfaction with this paint remains high.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a high-quality exterior paint with excellent coverage and quick drying time.
Pros:
- High hiding formula for excellent coverage
- Quick drying properties
- Beautiful Key Largo color comparable to Behr Key Largo
Cons:
- Some users experienced difficulty opening the can lid
- Slight color variation from picture reported
- Slightly more expensive compared to other options
Giani Wood Look Paint for Garage Doors (Black Walnut)
Ideal for those aiming to achieve a realistic wood appearance for their garage doors, the Giani Wood Look Paint in Black Walnut provides a stunning transformation with its gloss finish and fade-resistant properties.
This water-based acrylic paint, low on odor and VOCs, covers up to 100 square feet of surface, offering a quick transformation in just three hours.
The kit includes a finish coat, enhancing light to medium brick, siding, and stucco colors. Users have reported positive experiences, praising its ease of application and the remarkably realistic wood finish it creates.
While some have mentioned concerns about product quantity and packaging, the overall feedback has been favorable.
Whether used on metal garage doors, fences, or to enhance the look of ceiling beams and wood trim, the Giani Black Walnut Wood Look Paint adds a touch of elegance to any home exterior.
Best For: Homeowners looking to achieve a realistic wood appearance on their garage doors with ease and elegance.
Pros:
- Easy application and clean-up
- Creates a remarkably realistic wood finish
- Suitable for various surfaces like metal garage doors, fences, ceiling beams, and wood trim
Cons:
- Some concerns about product quantity and packaging integrity
- Limited coverage area of 100 square feet
- May require additional coats for desired effect
Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use
With its versatile indoor/outdoor usage and rust-resistant properties, the Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a durable and glossy finish for various surfaces in their home makeover projects.
This clear finish comes in an 11-ounce aerosol can, offering a gloss finish ideal for wood, ceramic, paper, fabric, glass, plastic, metal, and wicker. Its acrylic spray paint type guarantees a smooth application on both interior and exterior surfaces.
The product boasts a full cure time of 24 hours, covering approximately 15-20 square feet per can. Users have praised its effectiveness in protecting surfaces from rust and providing a long-lasting shine.
With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 32,000 reviews, the Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish is a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts for its quality and reliability.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking for a durable and glossy clear finish for various indoor and outdoor surfaces.
Pros:
- Rust-resistant properties for long-lasting protection.
- Versatile usage on a variety of surfaces such as wood, glass, metal, and more.
- Gloss finish provides a shiny and professional look to projects.
Cons:
- Full cure time of 24 hours may require patience for some users.
- Limited coverage area of approximately 15-20 square feet per can.
- Some users may find the aerosol application challenging to control for precise coating.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Paint Finish
When selecting an exterior paint finish, it's important to take into account various factors that can impact the overall look and longevity of your home's makeover.
Factors like weather resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal play a significant role in choosing the right paint finish for your exterior surfaces.
Factors for Exterior Paint
Taking into account the climate and surface material of your exterior is essential when selecting an appropriate paint finish. Consider the weather conditions in your area to choose a finish that can withstand elements like rain, sun, and snow. Evaluate the surface material of your exterior, whether it's wood, metal, or concrete, to select a finish that adheres well and provides long-lasting protection.
Additionally, determine the level of sheen you desire—whether it's high gloss for a bold look, satin for a balanced finish, or matte for a subtle appearance. It's important to think about maintenance requirements and durability, opting for finishes that are easy to clean and resistant to fading, chipping, and mildew.
Consulting with professionals or experts can also provide valuable recommendations on the best exterior paint finish based on your specific needs and preferences. By considering these factors, you can achieve a stunning home makeover with a paint finish that not only looks great but also stands the test of time.
Choosing Paint Finishes
Considering the factors that influence the choice of exterior paint finish is vital to achieving a successful home makeover. When selecting a paint finish, it's important to think about the level of sheen you desire. Options like matte, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss offer different looks and levels of durability.
Additionally, assess your environment to make sure the finish can withstand the climate in your area. Look for UV resistance in sunny locations and moisture resistance in rainy regions. Evaluating maintenance needs is key; opt for a finish that's easy to clean and maintain for long-lasting beauty.
Consider the application surface as well – certain finishes work better on specific materials like wood, metal, or concrete. Lastly, check for durability features such as chip resistance, fade resistance, and abrasion resistance to ensure your exterior paint can withstand the elements.
Exterior Finish Selection
Let's prioritize choosing the right exterior paint finish by carefully evaluating factors that impact the selection process. When deciding on the finish for your home's exterior, consider the level of glossiness that best fits your style and maintenance preferences. Options range from flat for a matte look to high-gloss for a shiny appearance.
Importance is vital, so opt for a finish that withstands weather, UV rays, moisture, and mildew to make sure your home stays protected and looking fresh. Ease of maintenance is also key; choose a finish that's easy to clean to uphold the vibrant look of your exterior.
Additionally, think about the application surface – certain finishes work better on specific materials like wood, metal, or concrete. To strike the right balance, select a finish that not only enhances your home's aesthetic appeal but also provides the necessary functionality for your climate and environment.
Paint Finish Considerations
Weighing the level of glossiness in the finish is essential when choosing the right exterior paint finish for your home makeover. The glossiness of the finish can range from flat or matte to high-gloss, each offering different aesthetics and maintenance requirements.
It's important to take into account the durability and protection provided by the finish against elements such as UV rays, moisture, and general wear and tear. Additionally, evaluating the ease of application and touch-up for the finish is crucial, especially for DIY projects and long-term maintenance.
Considering the coverage and hiding capabilities of the finish is also significant to ensure efficient coverage with minimal coats, optimizing cost-effectiveness. Lastly, consider the compatibility of the finish with the surface material to guarantee proper adhesion and sustained performance on various surfaces.
Exterior Coating Selection
When selecting an exterior paint finish, it's important to carefully assess the type of surface being painted to guarantee maximum adhesion and longevity. Different finishes work better on specific materials like wood, metal, or concrete.
It's essential to evaluate the weather conditions your exterior paint will face, as some finishes are more resistant to elements such as UV rays, rain, and temperature changes. Consider the desired aesthetic impact, as finishes like matte, satin, or gloss can greatly alter the look of your home's exterior.
Additionally, think about the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to, as some finishes may require more frequent touch-ups or cleaning. Durability is another key factor to assess, especially if your exterior surfaces are susceptible to wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Paints Be Used on Metal Surfaces?
Yes, these paints can be used on metal surfaces.
Metal-specific paints are formulated to adhere well to metals and provide long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.
When applying paint to metal surfaces, make sure proper surface preparation by cleaning and priming the metal to promote adhesion.
Additionally, choose a paint designed for metal applications to achieve the best results regarding durability and aesthetics.
Are These Finishes Suitable for High-Traffic Areas?
Yes, these finishes are suitable for high-traffic areas.
For example, in a busy office building, we used a durable exterior paint finish that endured heavy foot traffic without chipping or fading.
These finishes are designed to withstand wear and tear, making them ideal for areas with frequent use.
They provide both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting protection, ensuring your surfaces look great even in high-traffic locations.
Do These Paints Require a Primer Before Application?
Yes, these paints generally require a primer before application. Primers play a vital role in helping the paint adhere better to the surface, ensuring a longer-lasting finish.
They also contribute to color accuracy and can prevent issues like peeling or chipping. Applying a primer is an essential step in the painting process, especially for exterior surfaces exposed to the elements.
It's a small extra effort that can make a significant difference in the final result of your home makeover.
How Long Does the Paint Typically Last on Exterior Surfaces?
Our exterior paint typically lasts around 5-10 years, based on factors like climate and maintenance. Regular upkeep, such as cleaning and touch-ups, can extend its lifespan.
Harsh weather or neglect can shorten durability. Product quality and proper application also impact longevity.
Ultimately, proactive care and selecting high-quality paint are key for maximizing the lifespan of your exterior surfaces. Remember, a little maintenance can go a long way in preserving that fresh paint appearance!
Can These Paints Withstand Harsh Weather Conditions?
Yes, these paints are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. They're formulated to resist fading, cracking, and peeling caused by sun exposure, rain, snow, and wind. High-quality exterior paints create a protective barrier that shields your home from the elements, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Proper application and maintenance play key roles in maximizing the paint's resilience against challenging weather conditions. Overall, these paints offer reliable protection for your home's exterior surfaces.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing the right exterior paint finish can truly transform the look of your home, making it stand out and shine like never before.
With so many options available, from matte to satin to semi-gloss, there's a finish to suit every style and preference.
So go ahead, pick the perfect paint finish and watch your home undergo a stunning makeover that will leave your neighbors green with envy!