Inspired Split Level Siding Ideas

Split level homes, popularized in the mid 20th century suburbs, present unique curb appeal opportunities with their multi-tiered facades. Upgrading the siding can completely transform the exterior aesthetic. But where do savvy homeowners start in planning split level siding projects? Let's explore popular siding styles, design elements, and remodeling ideas to inspire your next exterior revamp.

Conduct Comprehensive Site Evaluations

Carefully inspect all sides of your home's exterior before finalizing siding plans. Check for cracking, warping, mold, and water damage on every surface--not just readily visible areas. Tap siding in multiple spots seeking hollow sounds indicating trapped moisture or insect infestations behind. Probe around faucets, electrical outlets, windows and doors for indications of water seepage past improperly sealed perimeters.

Document the full extent of necessary prepwork and repairs essential for creating sound structural bases for siding installation. Replacing entire compromised sheathing sections provides smooth and stable bases compared to patching smaller holes that tend to eventually fail. Flash all openings, joints and roof lines to properly shield underlying wood.

Evaluate DIY vs Contractor Installs

Ambitious DIYers armed with an array of power saws and nail guns can feasibly handle many siding projects if diligently applied. But larger whole house endeavors or tricky multi-story elevated work may warrant hiring professional crews with specialized equipment. Contractors also prove invaluable for correctly assessing problematic underlying issues needing correction before applying new siding. Optimal installations demand meticulously integrating flashing, vapor barriers, corner posts, trim and facia based on prevailing weather conditions and building codes. Consider the complexity of each unique job when deciding whether to DIY or utilize contractors.

Weigh Pros & Cons of Siding Materials

Today's siding market offers an array of material options to suit homeowner needs and preferences:

• Vinyl siding is affordable, low maintenance, and available in diverse color/style options.
• Fiber cement has visual appeal resembling wood and resists rotting.
• Wood siding offers a classic, natural look but requires frequent upkeep.
• Composite blends polymers and wood fibers for durability.
• Metal sidings add bold contemporary flair but can dent.
• Masonry in stone, brick, provides remarkable longevity yet is pricey.

Carefully weigh factors of aesthetics, durability, eco-sustainability, and lifetime costs when selecting new siding. Leverage 3D design apps to visualize siding transformations. Install product sample boards onsite to judge actual appearance.

Evaluate Enduring vs Short-Lived Trends

While eye-catching in the moment, some bold siding fashions prove fleeting fast. Homeowners cringe decades later over sun-faded aqua aluminum sidings or garish faux brick facades. Study classic home styles that retain appeal through changing times when planning siding projects. Evaluate enduring color combinations and patterns used in your neighborhood or region. By aligning with tried-and-true schemes balanced to your architecture, exterior updates earn classic status no matter the era.

Incorporate Trending Two-Tone Combinations

Two-tone siding blends materials or colors to provide depth. Combining neutral siding on upper levels with a bold accent color on lower levels magnifies the split dimensions. Or wrap horizontal siding around the front facade while utilizing board and batten siding on rear and side sections. Take care to seamlessly blend siding transitions rather than abruptly changing from one style to another.

Accentuate Architecture Features

Work with existing columns, overhangs, opening shapes to highlight the home's architecture. For example, outline door/window frames with wide trim molding in a contrasting color. Or enhance column bases with stone/brick veneers. Such detailing showcases original building style. Know when to stop embellishing and let the architectural features stand out on their own.

Add Decorative Siding Layers

Horizontal bands, board & batten strips, and corner trim panels interspersed within siding visually break up flat expanses. Contrasting colors/textures in these decorative siding layers inject personality. But restraint is key, as over embellishing risks busy facades that hide, rather than accentuate, architectural definition.

Incorporate Statement Entryways

Draw attention to front and side entries by incorporating small rooflines, decorative tilework, custom wood doors, stone accents, and colorful plantings. Such framed entryways deliver striking first impressions. For rear patio access, add trellised arbors. But take care that accent elements harmonize with, not overwhelm, the existing exterior.

Upgrade Windows & Doors

Modernizing windows and doors synchronizes nicely with siding facelifts. Added exterior moulding frames new windows and doors for noticeably improved street facades. Install energy efficient models to enhance home value while reducing energy costs long-term. Select durable window and door units needing minimal maintenance to fully leverage investments.

Construct Backyard Retreats

Today's families relish alfresco backyard relaxation with friends/relatives. Construct a new covered patio/porch addition off the home's rear. Or install a freestanding cedar gazebo or pergola structure. Then decorate the new outdoor rooms with comfy sectionals, a firepit, and counter space with storage. Harmonize backyard structures with existing architectural lines and siding selections to maintain cohesive exterior styling.

Remodel Rear Section First

For budget or phased projects, focus initial exterior remodels solely on back/side sections not visible from the street. By remolding less seen areas, homeowners can spread project costs over time while restoring visible curb appeal upfront. Temporary color/siding mismatches matters less until fund allow completing the full exterior transformation.

Incorporate Statement Lighting

Well-designed landscape and architectural lighting casts residences in a magical glow for increased nighttime allure. Uplighting trees or accenting architectural rooflines/entries with spotlights amplifies curb appeal. Employ lighting strategically to highlight home features rather than brightening entire properties.

Repaint Exterior After Installs

Fresh exterior paint unifies disjointed sidings into cohesive facades. So after tackling major siding installs, appoint the finishing touch of repainting the full exterior in a complementary singular color scheme. Employ the same paint brand and sheen throughout the project for optimal uniformity.

Landscape for Heightened Impact

Mature trees, contoured flower beds and accent planters further transform plain building facades into welcoming homes. But maintain scale, allowing siding detailing to remain prominent. Know specific planting times in your region for faster landscape growth. And keep plants properly pruned once established so they enhance, not hide, architectural features.

Avoid Common Missteps With Installations

Even seasoned DIYers can hit pitfalls when replacing old siding. Protect investments and curb appeal by sidestepping these all-too frequent mistakes:

• Rushing into siding material/color decisions without thorough planning
• Opting for cheap vinyl siding prone to cracking/fading
• Selecting bold patterns likely to appear dated shortly
• Creating disjointed combinations disconnected from architecture
• Assuming low maintenance with improper initial installations

By taking time to craft well-conceived designs unified with existing architecture, homeowners can achieve timeless allure. Select quality products installed properly by reputable contractors. And commit to regular upkeep.

Rather than quick cosmetic fixes, approach split level siding projects as long-term exterior revamps deserving meticulous planning. Carefully evaluate existing conditions and facilitates needed repairs first. Research siding options that balance visual appeal, easy upkeep and enduring investment value aligned with regional home preferences. Then craft designs embracing, not fighting, the home's architectural spirit.