How to Modernize a Split-Level Home Exterior

How to Modernize a Split Level Home Exterior

Are you the proud owner of a split level home? If so, it can be difficult to know how to update its exterior. Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to modernize your split level home and give it an updated look that will turn heads! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the best tips for giving your split-level home’s exterior a makeover. We’ll discuss everything from choosing colors to adding outdoor features that will enhance your property’s curb appeal. So if you’re ready to get started on transforming your home, let’s dive in!

The first step in updating your split-level home is deciding on which color scheme will work best for the exterior. Choosing bold shades or subtle hues that contrast with one another can help create an eye-catching effect. You may also want to consider painting different sections of the house differently; by doing so, you’ll add interest and dimension to the overall design of your residence.

Finally, don’t forget about upgrading the landscaping around your split level home. Adding new shrubs and trees can increase visibility while enhancing both form and function outdoors. Installing flower beds or garden boxes is also a great way to boost aesthetic appeal without breaking any budgets. With these simple steps, you can easily modernize your split level home’s exterior and create a beautiful space that adds value and charm to any neighborhood!

Definition

A split level home is a type of house in which the main floor is higher than those below it. It has a unique look that can be difficult to modernize. To do so, there are several options for updating the exterior of your split-level home.

One way to modernize a split level home is by changing or adding details such as shutters and trim colors. Changing the color scheme gives an older home an updated look without sacrificing architectural features. Adding window boxes, wreaths and other decorations also helps give your exterior more visual appeal.

Updating outdoor lighting is another great way to upgrade the exterior of your split-level home. Installing new fixtures with energy-efficient bulbs will help brighten up your yard while adding security at night. You can also replace outdated porch lights, post lamps, and spotlights with something more stylish and contemporary.

Overview Of Existing Design

Now that the definition of a split level home has been established, it’s important to understand what an existing design looks like. Generally speaking, these homes were built in the 1950-the 70s and have already undergone several renovations since then. Exterior designs typically feature steep roofs with overhanging eaves, often with boxy shapes and basic materials such as brick or wood siding. These features are all characteristic of a split level home:

  • Steep roof lines
  • Overhanging eaves
  • Boxy shape
  • Brick or wood exteriors
  • Multi-leveled structure

With this understanding of existing designs, homeowners can begin to consider modernizing their exterior look. Not every home needs a complete makeover; minor upgrades may be enough to achieve desired results. However, larger changes will require more comprehensive planning and consultation from professionals to ensure proper execution. Homeowners should research local trends for inspiration on how to approach their own house projects so they can create a unique style that stands out from the rest.

Benefits Of Updating Exterior

Updating the exterior of a split-level home is beneficial for many reasons. Firstly, it adds value to the property and can increase its resale price significantly. In addition, modernizing the outside of a house gives it a fresh look that will draw attention from potential buyers in the future. Lastly, updating the exterior also improves energy efficiency by providing better insulation and airflow control capabilities which results in lower utility bills over time. All of these factors are important when considering whether or not to invest in modernizing an existing split-level home’s exterior.

Materials Considerations

When it comes to modernizing the exterior of a split level home, there are many materials options available. It’s important to understand which material will best suit your needs and budget when remodeling or renovating your home. Choosing the right material can make all the difference in creating a modern look while maintaining durability in harsh weather conditions.

One popular option is vinyl siding, due to its low cost, easy installation, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures and moisture levels. Vinyl siding also offers additional insulation for energy efficiency and can be painted over with any color scheme you desire. Additionally, aluminum siding provides excellent protection against fire, pests, and water damage; however, it may require more maintenance than other types of siding.

Brick is another great option that adds an elegant touch to any home’s exterior. It’s extremely durable and requires little upkeep – just occasional cleaning – making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners who don’t have time for frequent repairs or replacements. Plus, bricks come in various colors and sizes so they can easily complement any style of architecture desired.
No matter what type of material you choose for updating your split level home exterior, considering factors such as climate, cost efficiency, aesthetics, longevity and ease of installation should help guide you toward finding the perfect fit for your project.

Window Replacement Options

When modernizing a split level home exterior, window replacement is an important consideration. Replacing old windows with new ones can drastically improve the overall look of the home and make it appear more up to date. There are several types of window replacements that homeowners should consider when looking for ways to modernize their property.

Vinyl replacement windows are one type of window that many people opt for when renovating their homes. Vinyl windows are durable, energy efficient, and low maintenance – they never need painting or staining. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes so you can easily find something to fit your needs.

Another option is fiberglass replacement windows which offer superior insulation and durability over vinyl options. Fiberglass frames will not warp or rot like wood frames often do, providing years of reliable performance even in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, fiberglass comes in a wide range of colors, making it easy to choose one that fits the aesthetic of your home perfectly.

No matter what type of window replacement you decide on, it’s sure to add charm and beauty to your split-level home exterior as well as increase its value significantly. With careful consideration and planning, you’ll have beautiful new windows that will last for years to come!

Roofing Options

When it comes to modernizing the exterior of a split-level home, one great option is roofing. There are several materials that can be used to give your split-level home an updated look and feel. Here are three of the most popular:

1. Asphalt shingles:

This material is economical, relatively easy to install, and durable enough for any weather conditions. It also provides good insulation against heat and cold as well as soundproofing from external noise.

2. Metal roofing:

This type of roofing has increased in popularity over the past few years due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. The material is strong enough to withstand extreme temperatures without warping or cracking, plus it reflects heat away from your home—resulting in lower energy bills!

3. Clay tiles:

If you want something unique, clay tiles may be ideal for your project. They come in various colors and styles so you can find something that matches your home’s aesthetic perfectly. Plus they’re extremely long-lasting; may last up to 50 years with proper maintenance!

No matter which material you choose for your new roof, keep in mind that it needs to complement the other elements on the outside of your house—such as siding, windows, trim, etc.—to create a cohesive look that will make all passersby take notice!

Siding Replacement Options

When it comes to modernizing a split level home exterior, replacing the siding can make a dramatic difference. It’s important to choose an option that fits with the style of your home and neighborhood, as well as one that is durable and low-maintenance. Vinyl siding is a popular choice because it requires little maintenance after installation and resists fading in sunlight. Brick or stone veneer provides traditional appeal but requires more maintenance than other options. For homeowners looking for something unique, fiber cement offers an attractive alternative that looks like wood but doesn’t require painting or staining.

Fiber cement stands out since it won’t rot, warp, fade, or be eaten by insects. Plus its energy efficiency helps keep bills lower while reducing environmental impact. The material also holds paint better than many types of siding materials so you get longer lasting color without having to repaint often. Fiber cement also has the advantage over vinyl siding when it comes to noise reduction from outside sources such as traffic noise or nearby construction projects.

No matter which type of siding is chosen for updating a split level home exterior, the end product should provide improved curb appeal and increased property value – both major benefits of this kind of remodeling project. With careful planning and consideration given to all sides of the equation, homeowners will be pleased with their new look!

Foundation Repair And Insulation

Now that the siding has been replaced, it’s time to look at foundation repair and insulation. If the exterior of your split level home is not structurally sound or properly insulated, you can face a variety of issues. Foundation repairs are an important part of modernizing an older split-level home, as they provide stability and security while improving energy efficiency.

First, inspect the foundation for any signs of cracking or shifting in order to identify potential problems before they become serious structural issues. Cracks may be indicative of underlying problems such as water damage, settling foundations, poor drainage, or even termites. If there are cracks present, call a professional contractor to assess the situation and recommend appropriate actions. They’ll also be able to suggest ways to improve insulation levels if needed.

If all looks good with the foundation but insulation is lacking or needs improvement, hire a qualified professional who specializes in installing foam board panels along the rim joist areas between floors and walls. This will help prevent heat loss from beneath the structure and reduce energy costs over time. Additionally, consider adding blown-in cellulose insulation inside existing walls where possible to ensure optimal temperature control throughout each season. These improvements will make your split level home more efficient and comfortable moving forward!

Landscaping Ideas

Landscaping is a great way to modernize the exterior of a split level home. To create an updated look, start by replacing any out-of-date shrubs with evergreen varieties like boxwood or holly. Adding flowering plants such as hydrangeas and roses can also help to give the front yard a more vibrant appearance. Tall grasses provide texture and movement while creating privacy around the borders of the property. Lastly, consider adding lighting fixtures that point up towards trees and shrubs in order to create dramatic silhouettes at night. With these simple steps, it’s easy to achieve a modernized look for your home’s exterior.

Lighting Solutions

Updating the exterior of a split level home can be both an exciting and daunting task. One way to modernize it is with lighting solutions. Lighting can bring life, color, atmosphere, and even security to any outdoor area. Even something as simple as adding wall-mounted lights around the perimeter of your garden or driveway can add a touch of sophistication.

Using LED lighting will help reduce energy costs while also providing bright illumination throughout the evening. Solar-powered lanterns are another great option for those looking for low-maintenance options that still provide beautiful light effects in their landscaping project. String lights along pathways, decks, and fences create a warm ambiance during nighttime gatherings and festivities.

Adding stylish post lamps at the entrance of your house will give visitors a grand welcome as soon as they arrive on your property. With these ideas, you can easily transform your split-level home’s exterior into something truly extraordinary!

Deck And Patio Additions

Adding a deck or patio to the exterior of a split-level home is an excellent way to modernize its look. Not only will it provide extra outdoor entertaining space, but it can also add significant value to the property. When planning these additions, there are several factors worth considering.

First and foremost, consider what type of material best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences. Wood decks require more upkeep than composite materials, while patios may incorporate concrete, brick pavers, or even natural stone. Each option comes with different characteristics that should be weighed before making a decision.

The size of the area can also make a difference in terms of cost and time spent on installation. For larger projects, hiring a professional contractor might be advisable for optimal results and safety compliance. If you’re tackling this project yourself, take into account how much labor will be involved when selecting the supplies needed for your specific design goals.

Porch Enhancements

The porch is an important factor in the split-level home exterior. Updating it can make a big difference in the look and feel of the entire property. Here are some ways to modernize your porch:

  • Install new railings designed with contemporary materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or glass.
  • Add decorative accents like planters or benches for seating.
  • Update light fixtures with energy-efficient options that will give off more ambient lighting.
  • Paint columns and posts in a bold color to add visual interest.

Making these changes will create a polished appearance while also increasing curb appeal and making guests feel welcome when they come to visit. With just a few upgrades you can completely transform your outdoor space into something special!

Permits Needed

Updating the exterior of a split level home can require permits and approval from local authorities. It’s important to know what projects need to be approved before starting any work, in order to avoid costly fines or delays due to lack of permission. Depending on where you live, there are specific building codes that must be followed when making changes like adding an extra story, replacing windows and doors, or changing siding materials.

It’s also important to check with your neighbors about their own plans for remodeling or expanding their homes. You don’t want to find out after investing time and money into your project that it has created problems for them.

Before beginning any renovations, contact your local planning department or building office and get all necessary permits in writing so you can proceed with confidence knowing everything is taken care of legally.

Hiring A Professional

Hiring a professional to modernize your split-level home exterior is the best way to ensure your results are up to standard. You’ll want someone with experience in this kind of project, as well as knowledge of local building codes and regulations. Ask around for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar work done, or search online for qualified professionals in your area.

Once you’ve narrowed down some options, contact each contractor individually to get more detailed information about their services. Make sure they offer everything you need – from materials selection to installation – and that they can complete the job within your desired timeline. It’s also important to check references and reviews before making any decisions; make sure the contractor has satisfied other customers with their work.

When it comes time to hire, be sure to read through all proposals carefully and compare them against one another. Get an estimate for labor costs and material expenses so you know exactly what you’re getting into financially. Once you’ve finalized everything and chosen a contractor, draw up an agreement outlining both parties’ expectations during the renovation process. This will protect both yourself and the contractor should anything go wrong along the way.

Read More: Buying A New Home Or An Old Housing Property

Cost Estimations

Now that you have hired a professional to help modernize your split level home exterior, the next step is to get cost estimations. Before any work begins, it’s important to know what kind of budget you’ll need for materials and labor. You can ask your contractor for an estimate or explore options such as getting bids from multiple companies.

It may be helpful to make a list of all the items needed for the project and their estimated costs so you can compare them with the bid from your contractor. This will provide assurance that no hidden fees are involved in the process. Knowing how much money you’ll need upfront will also give you a better understanding of when payments are due and if there are financing options available.

Before committing to any plan, review your estimates closely and ensure they include all taxes and other applicable charges. Doing this research ahead of time helps avoid surprises later on, making sure everything goes smoothly during the renovation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Typical Cost Of Modernizing A Split Level Home Exterior?

Modernizing a split level home exterior can be an expensive endeavor. The typical cost of this kind of project depends on the scope and size of work that needs to be done, as well as the materials used.

When deciding how much money to set aside for modernizing, it’s important to consider all factors:

  • Materials:
  • Type/Quality
  • Quantity needed
  • Labor costs:
  • Skilled professionals required?
  •  The time involved in completion?

It’s also essential to think about how you want the finished product to look – do you want changes such as new siding or windows, decks or porches, or landscaping renovations? All these details need to be taken into account when estimating the cost of your renovation project. If you’re looking at high-end finishes or custom work, expect a higher price tag than if you were just making basic improvements. Additionally, local building codes may increase labor costs depending on what area you live in.

Thus, there is no single answer when assessing how much it will cost for modernizing a split level home exterior – it really depends on individual preferences and budgeting constraints. However, with careful planning and research beforehand, one can easily find ways to get maximum value from the investment made without sacrificing quality or design aesthetics.

What Type Of Permit Is Needed To Make Exterior Changes?

Making exterior changes to a split level home can be an exciting step towards modernizing the property. However, before starting any renovations it’s important to understand what type of permit is necessary in order to complete the work legally and safely.

Depending on where you live, different permits may be needed for various types of projects. Generally speaking, if major structural changes are proposed or alterations made that affect load-bearing walls or roofing systems then a building permit will likely need to be acquired. This includes installing new windows or making significant modifications to existing ones. In addition, depending on your local area you might also require planning permission approval if there’s a chance that your renovation project could have an impact on surrounding properties.

So before beginning any kind of external remodeling project at a split-level house, it is best practice to check with your local authority as soon as possible to ensure you know exactly which permits and permissions will be required. That way you can avoid costly delays further down the line due to incorrect paperwork or not having the correct documents ready when needed.

How Long Does It Typically Take To Complete A Split Level Home Exterior Modernization Project?

Modernizing a split level home exterior can be a big project to take on, and part of the planning process is understanding how long it will take. Depending on the scope of the project, the amount of time needed for completion can vary greatly.

The first factor in determining how long a modernization job will last is what type of permit is required from local authorities. If certain changes require permits, this will add more time to any timeline as applications must be filled out and approved before work can begin.

Another aspect that affects timelines is the size and complexity of renovations being done. A simple paint job may only take one or two days, while larger jobs such as installing siding or reworking an entire deck could easily stretch into weeks or even months. It’s important to get quotes from contractors so you know exactly how much time they’ll need to finish the job properly and safely.

No matter which route you choose, proper planning ahead of starting any work is essential to ensure your renovation goes smoothly and according to schedule. By researching all aspects of your project thoroughly beforehand, you’ll have a better understanding of what kind of time commitment you’re getting yourself into.

Are There Any Financing Options Available For Exterior Home Modernizations?

When it comes to home exterior modernizations, financing can be a major concern for homeowners. Fortunately, there are various options available that can make this process more affordable. From loans and grants to tax credits and deferred payment plans, there’s something out there to meet the needs of most budgets.

One popular financial option is taking out a loan specifically tailored toward these kinds of projects. Home improvement stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot offer competitive rates on their loans and often have attractive promotional offers such as no payments due for several months after funding. Additionally, many banks will provide personal loans at reasonable interest rates which can help cover the cost of materials if needed.

Another great way to pay for an exterior home modernization project is through government grants or tax incentives. Depending on where you live, there may be local programs in place aimed at encouraging people to upgrade their homes with energy-efficient solutions. This could include anything from solar panels to replacing old windows and doors with new ones that better insulate your house against outside elements. Additionally, some states offer tax credits or deductions when you purchase certain products related to green renovations – so research what’s available in your area!

What Is The Best Way To Ensure The Materials Used For The Modernization Project Are Of High Quality?

When it comes to modernizing a home exterior, ensuring the materials used for the project are of high quality is essential. Quality materials will not only make the project look better but also last longer and require fewer repairs in the future. So how do you ensure that your modernization projects use top-notch materials? Here are some tips:

1. Research Materials:

Do some research on different types of materials available to find out which ones fit your vision as well as your budget. This includes researching specialized companies that specialize in modernizing split level home exteriors so they can recommend good quality products and installation services.

2. Get Multiple Quotes:

Once you have identified potential materials, get multiple quotes from different suppliers or service providers to compare prices and offers. Be sure to read reviews about their products too before making your final decision.

3. Check Warranty & Return Policy:

When buying building materials, always check what kind of warranty or return policy they offer in case something goes wrong with the product once installed or delivered. For instance, if you buy windows, ask questions like ‘What is their guarantee period?’ or ‘How much would I be refunded if I decide to return them after installation?’. Having answers to these important questions beforehand can save you time and money down the line when dealing with issues related to building materials.

Ultimately, choosing high-quality materials for your home modernization project requires careful consideration and due diligence on your part before investing any hard-earned cash into renovating your space. Make sure to take all the necessary steps outlined above to ensure success!

Conclusion

In conclusion, modernizing a split level home exterior can be done with relative ease and affordability. The cost of the project will depend on the materials used, permits required, and labor involved. It’s important to ensure that all necessary permits are obtained before beginning any work, as this could potentially add extra time for completion. Financing options may also be available if needed, so it is worth researching those prior to starting the project.

Finally, taking care in selecting high-quality materials will ensure that you get the most out of your modernization effort – both in terms of aesthetics and longevity. With careful planning and consideration, you’ll have a beautifully updated home exterior in no time!