Split level homes, an icon of the 1960s, are making a comeback among investment property owners. A licensed general contractor is your best resource for updating and remodeling your split level property. Whether it’s new siding or interior lighting, a skilled professional will do the job right the first time for your split level home remodel.
1. Update the exterior
Now is the time to replace that outdated stucco or faux brick exterior. A general contractor can help you jazz up a split level exterior in several ways.
- Replace the siding on the taller part of the house with vertical siding, architectural panels or other new materials.
- Re-side the lower façade with stone or other updated materials.
- Repaint the garage doors in a bold color or replace them with doors made of natural wood or sleek metal and glass.
- Replace the roof with a color that contrasts with the rest of the exterior.
- Paint the soffits to contrast with the exterior color of the house.
2. Replace or add windows
Does your split-level property have small windows or windowless walls? New or additional windows can update the look of the home.
- Upgrade to larger windows or install windows in blank walls to add exterior style and interior light.
- Replace old windows with double-glass panes or insulated glass units (IGUs). This type of window helps stabilize indoor temperatures and reduce noise.
3. Change or move the front door
An entrance to a split-level home can feel cramped or look dark or flat. A few remodeling tricks can dramatically improve the appearance of the front entrance of a split level home.
- Replace the original door with a glass door to let in more light.
- Replace the street-facing door with a window, and move the original door to face the driveway.
- Match the front door with the new garage doors to create a unified exterior.
- Add a portico, porch or entrance cover to make a flat front door more attractive and easier to find.
4. Tear down walls
Open floor plans continue to be a popular trend. Many older split level homes, however, have small rooms that feel outdated. Want to create a spacious, airy environment? A general contractor can help by tearing down interior walls. For example, you can knock down part of a kitchen wall to open the kitchen to the living area. The result will be a larger space that is perfect for socializing.
Some walls should are important for the structure of the building and should remain in place. An experienced professional will know how to avoid structural damage when removing walls.
5. Update interior lighting
Interior lighting is an important ingredient in setting the mood and comfort level. A brighter interior is an effective way to modernize a split-level home.
- Add recessed lighting in the kitchen for a clean, well-defined look.
- Install a skylight in the living area for natural light and reduced electric light usage.
- Paint the interior in light colors to make small rooms appear larger and brighter.
6. Upgrade the HVAC system
A remodel should make a split level home more comfortable as well as more attractive. Older split-level homes can have uneven temperatures from room to room. An HVAC upgrade can get rid of those annoying cold spots. One option is to upgrade to a multi-zone system with a thermostat for each zone.
7. Hire a general contractor
A licensed general contractor has the necessary skills and experience for your split level remodel. For more than 15 years, Boston-area investment property owners have relied on R.H. Blanchard for their remodeling projects. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
