Red, White & Renew: Smart July Upgrades
- jengenore
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
"We don’t need a full reno. We just want it to feel fresh again.” That was the exact phrase a local homeowner shared when describing her summer to-do list — a mix of subtle upgrades, seasonal swaps, and that ever-elusive goal of making her space feel like vacation without leaving town.
Summer in Bexar County isn’t just about cookouts and fireworks. It’s the perfect window to tackle light, meaningful home improvements that boost both comfort and value. With longer days, sunnier skies, and that mid-year motivation, July gives us a golden opportunity to pause and polish.
Whether you're prepping your home to list or simply tired of that same beige entryway, here are smart, seasonal upgrades that make a statement — without requiring a contractor on speed dial.
1. Refresh Your Front Door
A bold coat of paint (think navy, cherry red, or matte black) can dramatically lift curb appeal. It’s also one of the quickest, most affordable ways to modernize your entry. Add a new doormat, switch out old hardware, and your front porch will feel brand new.
DIY Tip: Painting your front door is one of the easiest weekend projects — just lightly sand, prime if needed, and use a durable exterior paint. Finish with a satin or semi-gloss for longevity.
2. Swap Out Lighting Fixtures
Indoor or out, lighting changes the entire tone of a room. Consider replacing a dated dining chandelier or adding soft uplighting in your garden or patio area. Motion-sensor pathway lights also add safety without harsh glare.
3. Add a Pop of Pattern with Outdoor Fabrics
July is prime time to upgrade your patio with washable cushions, modern umbrella patterns, or a colorful outdoor rug. Look for UV-resistant fabrics that hold up against sun and summer storms.
4. Power Wash & Seal
Your deck, driveway, and even siding may be begging for a reset. A good power wash removes months (or years) of buildup, while sealing the deck helps protect your investment from that relentless Texas sun.
Local Tip: Not ready to DIY it? We love working with local pros like @aqualuxpw, a San Antonio favorite for expert pressure washing that leaves your curb appeal gleaming. They’ll do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
5. Embrace the Indoor Plant Trend
Beat the heat by refreshing your interior with low-maintenance houseplants like pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants. They're mood-boosting, air-purifying, and a great way to introduce color without picking up a paintbrush. Visit Plant Shoppe or Shades of Green they always have such a plethora of beautiful houseplants. While your there you can also put together one of our favorite Outdoor planters to keep those pesky mosquitos at bay!
One Easy DIY You Can Do This Weekend:
Outdoor Citronella Planters – Combine citronella, lavender, rosemary, and mint in a decorative pot to keep bugs away and bring fragrance to your patio. Place a few around your sitting areas and enjoy mosquito-repelling style.
Looking for more ways to style, update, or prep your space? Follow along @AtHomeInBexarCo for local resources, Bexar County pros, and more ideas that keep your home — and your mindset — market-ready all year long.
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