It is really ironic how the foundation of a house is the most important structural component but it goes unnoticed. However, when it becomes visible, it can take away from the overall beauty of a home. This is especially true if it’s an older home with a dated, or simply unattractive, foundation.
But the good news is that there are ways to cover up those unsightly foundations and make them blend in with the rest of the house. There are a variety of choices that can be used to improve the appearance of your foundation and boost your home’s curb appeal.
What is the best material to put around foundation?
The best material to put around a foundation depends on several factors, including the style of your home, your budget, and the purpose of the material (e.g. purely decorative, insulation, etc.).
Here are a few of the most popular options:
Stone:
Natural stone is a popular choice for foundation surrounds, as it offers a natural and attractive appearance that complements many different architectural styles. Stone can be expensive, but it is durable and long-lasting.
Brick:
Popular option for foundation surrounds, as it offers a classic look that is both attractive and durable. Bricks come in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can choose a style that complements your home.
Concrete:
Probably the most cost-effective option for foundation surrounds, as it is easy to install and low maintenance. Concrete can be painted or stained to match the color of your home, or you can add decorative elements such as stamps or stains to create a unique look.
Landscaping:
Plants, flowers, or shrubs can be a beautiful way to surround your foundation. This option can also provide additional insulation for your home, as well as helping to regulate the temperature of the soil around the foundation.
Wood:
Another popular option for foundation surrounds, particularly for homes with a more natural or rustic aesthetic. Wood can be used in a variety of forms, such as timber walls, lattice screens, or raised garden beds.
Paint:
A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of an unattractive foundation.
Choosing the best material for your foundation depends on a few things like your personal style, what your home looks like, and how much you’re willing to spend. Plus, you’ve got to think about what the material is supposed to do, like keeping your home warm, making sure water drains away, and making everything look pretty.
Creative Ways to Hide your Foundations
Let’s look at some amazing bloggers’ ideas to see if your inspiration awakes and suits your needs.
AirStone to Block Foundation
Debbie at Refresh Restyle shows us this incredible change in their house using Airstone to Block. Check out her full tutorial here.
AirStone is a lightweight option for turning plain cement blocks in to a stone wall. Every carton of Airstone is made from 6 recycled wine bottles. Oh yeah!
Hide With Plants
At ThriftyFun, they had a small, recessed foundation wall in one area. It was so ugly and painting it didn’t seem like a good idea. To hide the wall, they planted a row of Euonymus fortunei rootings in front of it.
This stuff can get huge, but can easily be sheared to the 2 feet needed. It will get as thick as any hedge. In 2 years, the wall will be completely hidden with what will look like a dense variegated dwarf boxwood.
I find it very pretty.
Paint it
Kim at Newly Woodwards chooses the easy way, painting. Certainly the cheapest and easiest.
“If the past eight years of renovating houses has taught me anything, it’s that paint can be house-changing. You don’t need a huge budget or tons of hardcore DIY skills or a garage of specialty tools.
Nope – just a paintbrush and a can of paint.”
You can choose a color that matches the rest of your home, and with a paintbrush or roller, you can give your foundation a brand new look in no time. It’s an easy and affordable way to spruce up your foundation. Just make sure to use a paint that is suitable for outdoor use and can withstand the elements.
You can change color it every year!
Faux Panels
Faux panels are a great solution for covering up an ugly foundation. They offer a realistic, textured look of materials like stone, brick, or wood, without the cost and weight of actual materials. Made of lightweight materials like polyurethane or PVC and can be easily cut to fit the size and shape of your foundation.
You can attach them directly to the foundation using adhesives or fasteners. This solution is cost-effective and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. Just make sure to choose a faux panel that looks authentic and complements the style of your home.
It might be a bit pricey though, especially depending on how much you need.
Foundation Insulation Panels
Insulation panels are a great option for covering an ugly foundation while also providing insulation for your home. These panels are made of a foam material that provides a barrier to heat loss, making your home more energy-efficient.
They come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, making it easy to find the right panels for your foundation.
Installing insulation panels is a straightforward process, and they can be easily cut to fit the shape of your foundation.
Once installed, insulation panels provide a smooth, seamless surface that can be painted or finished to match the color of your home.
This solution not only covers up unsightly foundations, but it also provides long-term benefits by reducing your energy costs and making your home more comfortable.
Check Out the Family Handy Man for more details.
Stone veneer
Jenna Burger Design shows us this amazing change in their house foundations.
“Stone veneer products, which are made from concrete, come in a range of colors + shapes and can be used for a variety of projects. Their ‘pro’ is that they are lighter weight than real stone, less expensive, and only about 1 – 2 thick. And the best part of all… You really don’t need ANY EXPERIENCE to apply / install them.”
FAQs
How much does it cost to install stone veneer on foundation?
On average, the cost of installing stone veneer can range from $12 to $30 per square foot, with most homeowners spending around $20 per square foot. This means that the total cost of installing stone veneer on a 1,000 square foot foundation could range from $12,000 to $30,000.
It’s important to keep in mind that these estimates are just that – estimates. The actual cost of your project will depend on several factors, including the size of your foundation, the type of stone veneer you choose, and the cost of labor in your area.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of your project, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional contractor or a stone veneer supplier in your area.
This is not the cheapest option to hide your foundation, that’s a fact.
Should I put gravel around my foundation?
Gravel can be a useful material to put around your foundation, but it depends on the specific needs of your home. Here are a few reasons why you might consider using gravel:
- Drainage: If your home has a tendency to collect water around the foundation, gravel can be used to create a drainage layer that will direct water away from the foundation. This can help prevent water damage and mold growth.
- Insulation: Gravel can provide insulation for your foundation by creating a barrier between the foundation and the soil. This can help regulate the temperature of the soil and prevent heat loss from your home.
- Aesthetics: Gravel can also be used for aesthetic purposes, creating a natural and attractive look around the foundation. You can choose from a variety of colors and sizes of gravel to create a unique and beautiful landscape.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that gravel can also have some downsides. For example, it can be messy, and it can be difficult to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. Also, if you have pets or small children, loose gravel can pose a tripping hazard.
What’s the cheapest way to hide foundations?
The two cheapest options are:
- Painting: A fresh coat of paint is a quick and easy way to hide an unsightly foundation. You can choose a color that matches the rest of your home, and with a paintbrush or roller, you can give your foundation a brand new look in no time.
- Landscaping: Adding plants, bushes, or trees around the foundation can help to conceal it. You can also use mulch or ground cover to hide the foundation. This option is relatively inexpensive and can provide a natural, attractive look.
