Updating the exterior of a split-level home can refresh its appearance and increase curb appeal. These homes, known for their staggered levels and distinct design, often need thoughtful updates to match contemporary tastes. This guide outlines practical steps to modernize a split-level home exterior, from evaluating the existing architecture to enhancing the entryway. With the right approach, you can turn your split-level home into an inviting and stylish space that reflects modern living.
What is a Split-Level Home?
A split-level home is an architectural style that became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century. It features staggered floor levels connected by short flights of stairs. Typically, the main level houses the living areas, the lower level is often used for recreational spaces or family rooms, and the upper level contains bedrooms and bathrooms. This design maximizes space and creates distinct zones for different activities, making it a favorite among families.
Split-level homes have versatile exteriors that can range from traditional to modern styles. Many were constructed with materials like brick, wood, or stucco, which allow for various design elements to enhance curb appeal. Given their age, many split-level homes can benefit from updates to improve both appearance and functionality. Homeowners often look to refresh the exterior with new siding, roofing, or entryways. Modernizing a split-level home can make a big impact on its visual appeal and increase its market value.
Ways on How to Modernize a Split-Level Home Exterior
Split-level homes, popular from the 1950s through the 1970s, often need updating to match contemporary aesthetics. This guide offers strategic approaches to transform your split-level exterior into a modern, appealing space that enhances both curb appeal and functionality.
Evaluate Your Home for Necessary Changes
Begin your renovation by conducting a thorough assessment of your home’s current architectural elements. Examine the roofline configuration, windows, and overall structural integrity to identify dated features that detract from the home’s appearance. Document areas showing wear, damage, or structural concerns, as these should be prioritized during renovation.
Look for distinctive architectural features worth preserving or highlighting, while noting problematic areas that could benefit from redesign. Consider how the multiple levels could be visually unified or intentionally differentiated to create a more cohesive appearance.
Assess how different exterior spaces connect and transition, paying special attention to the entryway’s prominence and accessibility. Evaluate how landscaping integrates with the architectural elements and analyze traffic patterns around the home to improve functionality. This detailed evaluation creates a solid foundation for making strategic renovation decisions.
Refresh the Façade with Modern Materials
Updating your split-level home’s exterior materials is one of the most effective ways to achieve a contemporary look. Modern siding options like fiber cement provide durability and aesthetic appeal without excessive maintenance. These materials resist rot, insects, and fire damage while offering the appearance of traditional wood siding.
Consider incorporating accent materials such as stone veneer, metal panels, or composite trim to add visual interest and texture to your home’s exterior. These elements can highlight architectural features or create focal points that draw the eye.
Roofing materials also play a crucial role in your home’s overall appearance. Modern architectural shingles come in various profiles and colors that can complement your design vision while providing superior protection. Metal roofing is another option that offers longevity and a distinctive contemporary look.
Also, replacing outdated windows can dramatically transform a split-level home’s exterior appearance while providing significant functional benefits. Modern window designs feature sleeker frames, improved proportions, and contemporary grid patterns that can instantly update your home’s aesthetic. Larger window installations can create a more open, airy feeling and establish a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Energy-efficient options with Low-E glass not only reduce utility bills but also protect interior furnishings from UV damage while providing clearer, more transparent views. The reflective properties of new glass can enhance your home’s exterior by creating interesting light patterns and depth.
Give Your Home a New Paint Job
A thoughtful color scheme can dramatically transform your split-level home’s appearance. Select contemporary colors that complement the architectural elements while reflecting current design trends. Consider a balanced palette with a dominant color for siding, an accent color for architectural details, and a bold statement color for the front door.
Creating visual contrast between different levels of your home can emphasize its unique architecture. You might use darker colors on the lower level to ground the structure while applying lighter hues to upper sections to create height and visual interest.
When selecting colors, consider your neighborhood context and natural surroundings. Choose shades that harmonize with the landscape while still allowing your home to stand out. High-quality exterior paints with UV protection and weather resistance will ensure your color scheme remains vibrant for years.
Painting vs. Replacing Siding: Making the Right Choice
Deciding whether or not to replace siding or paint your existing siding?
Painting Existing Siding
Painting your home’s exterior offers a cost-effective way to refresh your curb appeal. Modern exterior paints provide excellent coverage and come in virtually unlimited color options, allowing you to completely transform your home’s look without the expense of new materials.
The painting process typically involves thorough cleaning, repairs to damaged areas, priming, and the application of high-quality exterior paint. When professionally applied, a new paint job can last 5-10 years depending on your climate and the siding material.
Painting is ideal when your existing siding is in good structural condition but appears dated or faded. It’s also an excellent option for homeowners working with a more modest renovation budget or those who may want to make more substantial changes in the future.
Replacing Siding
Installing new siding represents a more significant investment but offers several advantages over painting. New siding materials like fiber cement siding and vinyl siding provide improved insulation, weather resistance, and durability compared to older materials.
Modern siding options require minimal maintenance and come with warranties ranging from 25-50 years. Many premium siding products, like James Hardie fiber cement with ColorPlus technology, come pre-finished with factory-applied color that resists fading and chipping better than field-applied paint.
Siding replacement allows you to address any underlying structural issues, improve insulation, and completely transform your home’s appearance. While the initial cost is higher than painting, new siding often provides better long-term value through energy savings, reduced maintenance, and increased property value.
Enhance the Entryway
The entrance to your split-level home deserves special attention as it creates the first impression for visitors. Install a contemporary front door that serves as a focal point through its design, material, or color. Consider doors with clean lines, glass inserts, or distinctive hardware that align with your modern aesthetic.
Improve the approach to your entrance by redesigning walkways and steps. Replace narrow concrete paths with wider walkways using pavers, natural stone, or stamped concrete to create visual interest. Add strategic lighting that illuminates the path and highlights architectural features while enhancing safety and security.
Create a welcoming transition space near the entrance with thoughtfully selected planters, seating, or architectural elements that define the area. This helps address the sometimes awkward entrance configuration common to split-level homes and creates a more inviting approach.
FAQ’s: Modernizing Split-Level Homes
Our most frequently asked questions regarding modernizing a split-level home:
How much does it cost to renovate a split-level house?
The cost to renovate a split-level house can vary significantly based on the scope of the project. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $20,000 and $100,000 a split-level home exterior remodels.
Is it hard to sell a split-level home?
Factors influencing the cost include the materials used, the extent of structural changes, and the range of exterior updates. Investing in quality siding, windows, and doors can improve both the appearance and energy efficiency of your home.
How do you cool a split-level house?
Cooling a split-level house can be challenging due to its unique layout. One effective solution is to install energy-efficient windows that help regulate indoor temperatures. Additionally, consider a zoned heating and cooling system, which allows you to control temperatures in different areas of your home. Ceiling fans and strategically placed vents can also improve air circulation, making your split-level more comfortable during warmer months.
Contact DaBella Today to Schedule Your Free Quote
Ready to transform your split-level home’s exterior? We specialize in modernizing home exteriors with a comprehensive range of services, including roofing, siding, and window replacement services.
As GAF Master Elite Roofers and James Hardie Elite Preferred contractors, we offer top-quality roofing and siding solutions that enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide lasting protection against the elements. Our products are designed to withstand the elements, ensuring your home remains beautiful and secure for years to come.
We also offer our proprietary brand of Glasswing vinyl replacement windows that are energy-efficient and enhance curb appeal. These windows improve your home’s appearance and contribute to energy savings and comfort. With various styles and designs available, you can find the perfect fit for your split-level home.
Contact us today at 844-DaBella to schedule your free quote for your exterior remodel. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through the split-level exterior remodel process, ensuring your vision comes to life. Let us help you create a stunning and modern exterior that you and your family will love.
