Home Exteriors – Outside the Box!
Editor’s Note (Updated 2025): This post has been refreshed to improve readability and provide updated guidance for homeowners exploring exterior home design options at Ernest Homes.
You may not realize it at first, but your new home is essentially a large, meaningful box — holding your food, your rest, your keepsakes, and the people you love. Yet when it comes to designing this box, most homebuyers focus heavily on floor plans, bedrooms, storage, and finishes, while giving far less attention to the exterior.
At Ernest Homes, we want to make sure the outside of your home reflects your style just as much as the inside. Our Design Studio offers a variety of exterior materials, colors, and architectural options that boost curb appeal and long-term value. Let’s explore some of the most popular choices you’ll encounter.
Exterior Materials
Siding
Siding plays a major role in your home’s protection, efficiency, and visual appeal. Here are key factors to consider:
- Water Resistance – Higher resistance equals longer lifespan.
- Energy Efficiency – R-values determine insulation needs and impact heating/cooling costs.
- Aesthetics – Choose a style and color that reflects your personality.
- Versatility – Some sidings perform better depending on climate or design.
- Durability – Consider sun exposure, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
Popular siding types include:
- Stucco – Moldable, durable, and available in a variety of colors.
- Vinyl – America’s most common choice due to affordability, low maintenance, and color options.
- Metal – Lightweight, long-lasting, and great for modern designs or curved edges.
- Wood – Timeless and beautiful in many forms, though most types require more maintenance.
- Brick & Brick Veneer – Classic, low-maintenance, and highly durable.
- Stone & Stone Veneer – Elegant, long-lasting, and rich in texture.
- Fiber Cement – Resembles wood but offers superior durability; often backed by 50-year warranties.
Roofing
Your roof protects your home and defines its architectural character. Common roofing types include:
- Asphalt Shingles – Cost-effective, easy to repair, and available in many colors.
- Wood Shingles & Shakes – Stunning natural appearance, more maintenance required.
- Slate or Synthetic Slate – High-end, long-lasting, and excellent against severe weather. Synthetic options offer similar looks at a lower cost.
- Metal Roofing – Extremely durable and increasingly popular for modern and coastal home styles.
Exterior Accents
- Front Doors – A bold color or unique design adds instant personality.
- Driveway Paving – Beyond function, it can enhance the home’s entire exterior feel.
- Outdoor Lighting – Blend safety and style with sconces, mounts, or pathway lighting.
If lawn and garden work isn’t your passion, our team can also recommend trusted landscaping professionals throughout the Savannah, Richmond Hill, and Guyton areas.
Ready to bring your home’s curb appeal to life? Call our Sales Team at 912-660-9673 or reach out anytime through our Contact Us page. We’re here to help you create a home that looks just as beautiful on the outside as it feels on the inside.