Split Level Exterior Remodel: A Comprehensive Guide to Transforming Your Home’s Curb Appeal

A split level exterior remodel is a transformative project that can breathe new life into a classic mid-century home design. Characterized by their distinct staggered floors, split level homes offer unique architectural charm but often present challenges in terms of curb appeal and functionality. Whether you’re looking to update the facade, improve energy efficiency, or enhance outdoor living spaces, a well-planned remodel can maximize your home’s potential while increasing its market value. This comprehensive guide explores key considerations, popular design ideas, and practical steps for executing a successful split level exterior transformation that balances aesthetics with practicality.

One of the primary reasons homeowners undertake a split level exterior remodel is to address the sometimes awkward proportions of these structures. The multi-level design can appear disjointed or dated if not properly harmonized. A strategic remodel focuses on creating visual cohesion between the different levels while emphasizing the home’s horizontal lines. This might involve reconfiguring rooflines, adding complementary materials, or introducing landscaping elements that tie the various sections together. The goal is to create a unified appearance that enhances the home’s architectural integrity rather than fighting against it.

When planning your split level exterior remodel, several crucial factors deserve careful consideration:

• Architectural Style Consistency: Ensure your remodel respects the home’s original mid-century modern or contemporary roots while incorporating modern elements tastefully.
• Material Selection: Choose durable, weather-resistant materials that complement each other across different levels, such as combining stone veneer with fiber cement siding.
• Color Palette: Develop a cohesive color scheme that visually connects the various levels while highlighting interesting architectural features.
• Budget Allocation: Prioritize elements that offer the best return on investment, such as high-quality windows and doors, while finding cost-effective solutions for decorative elements.
• Local Regulations: Research zoning laws, homeowner association rules, and permit requirements before beginning any structural modifications.

Popular design approaches for split level exterior remodels often focus on modernizing while preserving character. Many homeowners opt to refresh the facade with contemporary materials like horizontal fiber cement siding, which emphasizes the home’s linear qualities. Stone or brick accents can add texture and visual interest, particularly when used to highlight the entryway or foundation areas. Updating windows to larger, energy-efficient models arranged in strategic groupings can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The entry experience deserves special attention—consider enhancing the staircase, adding a covered porch, or installing statement lighting to create a welcoming focal point.

The roofing system plays a crucial role in any split level exterior remodel. Many original split level homes featured low-pitched or flat roofs that may require updating. Options include standing seam metal roofs for a contemporary look or architectural shingles that provide dimension and durability. Proper gutter systems and drainage solutions are essential given the multiple roof levels, preventing water damage and foundation issues. Some homeowners choose to modify rooflines by adding gentle pitches or extending overhangs to create covered outdoor spaces, though such structural changes require professional engineering assessment.

Landscaping represents another powerful tool in your split level exterior remodel arsenal. Thoughtful planting can soften the transition between levels, disguise foundation areas, and direct attention toward attractive features. Terraced gardens, retaining walls, and strategic lighting can turn challenging slopes into beautiful, functional outdoor living areas. Consider incorporating multi-level decks or patios that extend your living space outdoors while complementing the home’s architectural levels. Pathway design, from the street to your entryway, should guide visitors naturally through the landscape while addressing any accessibility concerns.

For those considering more extensive modifications, several structural options can dramatically transform your split level home’s exterior. Some homeowners choose to add a front-facing garage or carport that aligns with the home’s planes, creating a more integrated appearance. Others opt to expand certain levels horizontally, perhaps extending the living room section to create a more balanced facade. Enclosing open breezeways or converting carports to garages can provide additional enclosed space while improving the home’s thermal performance. These significant alterations require careful planning and professional guidance but can resolve fundamental proportion issues in the original design.

Successful execution of a split level exterior remodel follows a logical progression:

1. Initial Assessment: Evaluate your home’s current condition, identifying structural issues, moisture problems, or outdated elements requiring attention.
2. Design Development: Create conceptual drawings that address your goals while respecting the home’s architecture and your budget constraints.
3. Material Selection: Choose siding, roofing, windows, doors, and finishing materials that work together aesthetically and functionally.
4. Contractor Selection: Vet experienced professionals familiar with split level construction specifics and obtain multiple detailed bids.
5. Phased Implementation: Plan the work sequence to minimize disruption, often addressing structural repairs first before moving to cosmetic improvements.
6. Final Detailing: Complete the project with landscaping, lighting, and decorative elements that unify the transformed exterior.

Budget considerations for a split level exterior remodel vary widely based on scope and materials. A cosmetic refresh focusing on paint, minor repairs, and landscaping might range from $15,000 to $30,000. A more comprehensive remodel including new siding, windows, and roofing could invest $40,000 to $75,000, while extensive structural modifications might exceed $100,000. Regardless of budget, prioritize improvements that address moisture management, structural integrity, and energy efficiency before focusing on purely aesthetic enhancements. Many homeowners find that even modest investments in key areas like the entryway, lighting, and paint color can yield dramatic improvements in curb appeal.

A thoughtfully executed split level exterior remodel can transform a dated or awkward-looking home into a striking, contemporary residence that stands out in the neighborhood. By respecting the original architecture while introducing modern materials and design sensibilities, you can overcome the challenges of the split level form and create a cohesive, attractive exterior. The process requires careful planning, appropriate material selection, and often professional guidance, but the results—enhanced curb appeal, improved functionality, and increased property value—make the investment worthwhile. With the strategies outlined in this guide, you’re equipped to embark on a split level exterior remodel that honors your home’s past while securing its future appeal.