Your business might have the best products in the state or the most talented team in the industry, but if the outside of your building looks neglected, many potential customers will never find out. The exterior of your property acts as a silent salesperson. It communicates your brand values, your attention to detail, and your success level before a client ever steps through the door.
Curb appeal is often discussed in real estate, but it is equally critical for commercial success. A well-maintained exterior invites people in, while a run-down facade pushes them toward competitors. Investing in the outside of your building is not just about vanity; it is a strategic move to increase foot traffic and build trust.
From simple cosmetic touches to major structural improvements, here are ten exterior upgrades that can transform your business presence.
1. Revitalize the Landscaping
Greenery softens the harsh lines of commercial buildings and makes a property feel welcoming. You don’t need a sprawling garden to make an impact. Well-placed shrubs, colorful flower beds, or even decorative planters near the entrance can instantly brighten the space.
If maintenance is a concern, consider xeriscaping or using native plants that require less water and upkeep. The goal is to show that the property is cared for. Overgrown weeds, dead grass, or barren dirt patches suggest a lack of attention to detail that customers might project onto your business practices.
2. Upgrade Your Signage
Your sign is your handshake. It tells people who you are and where you are. If your signage is faded, cracked, or flickering, it sends the wrong message. Modernizing your signage can be one of the highest ROI updates you make.
Consider LED backlighting for visibility at night to enhance brand loyalty and appeal. Ensure the font is readable from the road and that the colors align with your current branding. If your business is tucked away from the main street, investing in wayfinding signage—directional signs that guide people to your door—can also significantly reduce customer frustration.
3. Repave and Repair the Parking Lot
Nothing frustrates a customer faster than navigating a minefield of potholes just to park their car. A crumbling parking lot is not only an eyesore; it is a liability. It creates tripping hazards for pedestrians and can damage vehicles.
A freshly paved, blacktop seal-coated parking lot with crisp, bright striping looks professional and safe. However, sometimes a simple overlay isn’t enough. If the damage runs deep, you may need to remove the old pavement entirely to fix the sub-base. For major overhauls involving removing old material and leveling the ground, hiring professionals for excavation in West Valley City ensures the job is done correctly, providing a stable foundation for your new lot.
4. Modernize Exterior Lighting
Lighting serves two purposes: safety and aesthetics. A dark building looks closed and uninviting, potentially attracting unwanted activity after hours. Upgrading to bright, energy-efficient LED lighting improves security for your staff and customers.
Beyond safety, lighting can be architectural. Use uplighting to highlight unique building features, or install warm, ambient lighting near walkways to create a pleasant atmosphere. If you run a restaurant or retail store, attractive lighting can turn your location into a landmark that draws attention even when you are closed.
5. Refresh the Paint or Siding
Paint fades over time due to sun exposure and weather, leaving a building looking tired and washed out. A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to dramatically change your building’s appearance.
When choosing colors, stick to your brand palette but consider the surroundings. Neutrals with bold accents often work well for professional services, while creative agencies or retail spots might get away with more vibrant choices. If your building has siding, ensure it is clean and free of mold or rot. Replacing damaged siding helps protect the structure from water damage while boosting visual appeal.
6. Improve the Entryway
The entrance is the focal point of your exterior. It is the transition zone between the outside world and your business environment. Make it count.
Start with the door itself. Is the handle rusty? Does the door stick? Upgrade the hardware for a smoother experience. Consider adding a high-quality welcome mat, an awning to protect customers from the rain, or automatic doors to improve accessibility. The entryway should say “Come on in,” not “Keep out.”
7. Update Windows and Glass
Dirty, cracked, or outdated windows block natural light and lower your building’s energy efficiency. Replacing old single-pane windows with modern, energy-efficient models can lower your heating and cooling bills while giving the facade a sleek, contemporary look.
If full replacement isn’t in the budget, professional window cleaning is a must. Crystal-clear glass implies transparency and cleanliness. You might also consider applying window film for UV protection or privacy, which can also add a decorative element to the exterior.
8. Focus on Hardscaping and Walkways
Your sidewalks and pathways guide the customer journey. Cracked concrete or uneven pavers are tripping hazards that look unprofessional. Repairing these areas ensures that your business is accessible to everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
You can also use hardscaping to define spaces. A nice brick border along a walkway or a stone retaining wall can add texture and sophistication to the property. Just like with parking lots, ensuring the ground is properly leveled before laying stone is crucial to prevent shifting later on.
9. Create Outdoor Amenities
If you have the space, give people a reason to linger. Adding a bench, a bike rack, or a small patio area can make your business a community hub. For cafes or restaurants, outdoor seating is a direct revenue driver. For offices, a few benches provide a space for employees to take breaks, boosting morale.
These amenities show that you care about the comfort and experience of the people visiting your location, transforming a sterile commercial building into a welcoming destination.
10. Prioritize Routine Maintenance
The most expensive upgrades in the world won’t matter if the property isn’t kept clean. Regular maintenance is the glue that holds your curb appeal together.
Establish a schedule for pressure washing sidewalks and siding to remove grime and gum. Ensure trash bins are emptied regularly and are not overflowing. Keep the gutters clean and the windows spotless. Consistency is key. A clean exterior suggests that you run a tight ship and pay attention to the details to long run commercial roofs solutions to enhanced siding, a trait customers value in every industry.
Turning Curb Appeal into Revenue
Investing in your business’s exterior is rarely a wasted effort. It protects your property value, reduces liability, and most importantly, brings customers through the door. Whether you are planting new flowers, installing better lights, or scheduling excavation in West Valley City to fix a grading issue, every improvement contributes to the overall narrative of your brand.
Start by standing on the sidewalk and looking at your business through the eyes of a stranger. What stands out? What looks tired? Pick one or two projects from this list to tackle this quarter. Small changes add up, eventually creating a professional, inviting presence that sets you apart from the competition.
