There are a variety of ways to change the exterior look of a split level house. Depending on the overall condition and size of your budget, there are many options available.
One suggestion is to start with a clean canvas. If the siding, trim, and paint have seen better days, consider a complete refresh. Professional exterior power washing, painting, and staining can go a long way in giving the house a new lease on life.
Another option is to focus on landscaping. Add carefully chosen trees and shrubs to soften the lines of the house and create more visual appeal. While perennials, annuals, and containers can provide a pop of color, don’t neglect the hardscaping.
Curved walkways, patios, boulders, and water features all serve to enhance the exterior of the house.
Finally, consider architectural elements like shutters and awnings. Shutters will give the house a handsome and traditional look, while awnings can provide relief from the elements and an attractive spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, there are a variety of ways you can change the exterior look of a split level home. From simple improvements, like washing and painting, to more complex projects involving landscaping and architectural elements, updating your split level house is a great way to add visual appeal and value to your property.
How do I update the front of my house?
Updating the front of your house is a great way to give your home an improved curb appeal and provide a sense of accomplishment. A few simple steps can help you spruce up the front of your home quickly and inexpensively.
First, assess what you already have. This will help you determine how much work you’ll need to do and the materials you’ll need to do it. Look for things like peeling paint, rotting wood, cracked cement and other signs of wear and tear.
Make a list of things you’d like to replace or repair.
Second, choose materials that will best suit your needs. If you’re worried about the material getting damaged over time, look for something like vinyl siding that is durable and lasts longer.
Third, purchase your materials and start replacing the old with the new. Remember to use caution when doing any kind of repairs that involve the structure of your home. Also, if you have a garden, you can incorporate seasonal plants to give the front of your house a splash of color.
Finally, clean up your work area. Give the entire exterior of your house a good scrubbing. This will help make the new materials look even better.
Updating the front of your house is a great way to make your home look new again and increase the value of your property. With some basic materials and a little bit of time, you’ll be able to give your home a facelift in no time.
Can you change the facade of a house?
Yes, it is possible to change the facade of a house. A facade is the visible front of a building, which often defines its architectural style. Changing the facade of a house can involve a range of changes, from updating the siding or brickwork to altering the shape of a roof.
It might also include painting the facade or installing new windows, doors, and light fixtures. One of the major benefits of changing the facade of a house is enhancing curb appeal. A new, modern facade can increase the value of a home as well as increasing its aesthetic value, making it more attractive and inviting.
The scope of the work needed to change a facade could be quite extensive and should be undertaken with care and attention. It’s important to ensure that any changes are compliant with local zoning regulations and building codes, which are designed to ensure the safety of the structure.
In the new setup, all the components of the facade should be compatible, and it’s important not to compromise the integrity of the structure in any way. For these reasons, it’s strongly recommended that a qualified contractor be consulted before undertaking any facade work on a house.
Why do people not like split-level houses?
Split-level houses have been around since the 1950s and could be seen as a radical approach to home design at the time. While the innovative design was attractive to some, others weren’t as fond of it for a few reasons.
Many people don’t particularly like split-level houses because the design can often make rooms feel cramped and smaller due to the number of stairs, levels and landings. The layout of the house can also be very confusing and maze-like for visitors who are unfamiliar with the floor plan.
Furthermore, since the flow of the house is often disconnected, it can make it difficult to move from one room to the next without having to walk up or down steps. Additionally, the stairs can make it difficult to move furniture into the different levels, which creates additional hassles.
All of these reasons are why some people don’t like split-level houses.
Are split-level homes hard to sell?
Overall, split-level homes can be difficult to sell because they can be challenging to decorate and they may not suit all potential buyers. On the other hand, these homes are popular in certain areas, offer lots of living and storage space, and are generally affordable.
The first challenge with split-level homes is finding furniture that fits throughout the different levels. This can create a disjointed look within the home and limit potential buyers. Additionally, people often don’t know how to use the space to its fullest potential, so it may not live up to the buyer’s expectations.
Split-level homes offer generous living and storage space, however, so in certain areas they may be attractive to people who need more space for the same budget. The homes also usually have a large backyard and comfortable patios, which may be attractive to buyers with green thumbs.
If you’re selling a split-level home, it’s important to accentuate the best features of the house. Highlight the large rooms, generous storage, and outdoor space to attract buyers. You should also bring in a professional interior designer to help you create a pleasant, modern look throughout the home that creates a sense of flow and cohesion.
With proper preparation, split-level homes can be just as attractive as other houses and could even be the perfect choice for certain buyers.
Is the lower level of a split level considered a basement?
No, a lower level of a split level is not typically considered a basement. A split level home generally has a main entry which opens to a centralized room that is on the halfway point between the home’s upper and lower levels.
On one side of this centralized room is the upper level, while on the other side is the lower level. The lower level typically contains living space, but not in the form of a basement. It usually consists of bedrooms, rec rooms, or other living spaces.
Basements are typically below ground level and are used for storage, laundry, furnace and utility access.
Is a split-level home considered two stories?
A split-level home is not considered two stories but three. A split-level home is built on a slope with two stairwells, one going up and one going down. It has two main levels, each at different heights, connected by the two stairwells and the split-level area in the middle.
In this middle area, the ceiling is generally lower than it is in the other two areas and the stairs may connect here. This space typically divides a large living area into two, providing more room to live.
A split-level home is divided into three different sections, each with a different height and purpose. Therefore, a split-level home is not considered two stories but rather three stories.
How do you expand a split level entryway?
Expanding a split level entryway can be a considerable task, depending on the desired outcome, but it’s also an exciting home improvement project with the potential to increase the value of your home.
The first step is to decide on the extent of the project, what kind of entrance to create, and the choices for materials, design, and construction.
Budget and timeline are also important considerations since the project may require a variety of management processes, from initial designs to the actual construction and installation. You’ll also need to choose a reputable contractor who is familiar with split level entryways, has the necessary permits, and can work according to the desired budget and timeline.
To begin the project, the contractor typically assesses the current entrance to understand the condition, materials and construction. Once the goals of the project are identified, structural modifications may need to be performed in order to accommodate the changes.
These could include removing walls and enlarging the entryway. Then, the contractor may need to install new framing, and properly finish the area so everything is level and plumb.
Finally, the challenge is to consider the many design elements that lend to an attractive and welcoming entrance. These might include selecting materials that project a luxurious feel, such as high end doors, accent lighting and stone flooring.
Plantings and landscaping can also be incorporated to make the entryway standout.
Charting a course from these early decisions to a successful split level entryway is time consuming but definitely worthwhile. With so many decisions to be made, a professional contractor can be a great asset in ensuring a successful expanded entryway to your home.
What is a split level house called?
A split level house is a type of house where the main living area is split between more than one level, with the entrance to the home located between the different levels. This type of design is often used to create a more open impression within the home, as well as improving storage capabilities of the home.
The design can vary from having just two levels, to having four or five, depending on the home’s size, the needs of the home owner, and the terrain of the building lot.
The design of the split level house is also a good option for homes built on hilly terrain, as it can make use of the slopes of the land more effectively. With this type of design, it’s possible to have multiple levels of living space, while still having each area feel as though it is open and connected to one another.
This is often accomplished by the use of large windows to allow in natural light and views.
The split level house design is also advantageous for homes built in colder countries, as the bisected design can actually help keep the home more insulated and temperate on winter days.
In the United States, split level houses earned the nickname “California Split” by home builders in the 1950s, since the style was growing in popularity in the state. The design has gone on to become a classic style of home in much of the country.
How do you add space to a split-level home?
Depending on the area of the home that you wish to expand.
If you want to add space to the upper level, the most common approach is to build a room addition. This involves adding a new room and/or extending the existing rooms, which can be done horizontally or vertically.
Additionally, converting an attic, garage or balcony into a room can also add living space to the upper level of a split-level home.
If you wish to add space to the lower level of a split-level home, the most common solution is to finish the basement. This involves installing walls, ceilings, and floors, and possibly adding electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Other basement finishing solutions include installing drywall, painting, carpeting, and other finishes.
Finally, some homeowners opt to expand the area between the floors of split-level homes. This can be achieved by constructing a staircase or adding a full- or half-level below the main level. This option is more expensive and may require significant structural modifications, but can create an open design that expands the total living space in a home.
Why don’t they build split-level homes anymore?
Generally, split-level homes have a very box-like shape, creating an awkward design with steep staircases, and this can be quite hard to furnish and decorate. The style can also be disproportionally costly to build, due to the additional reinforcing needed to deal with the stepped structure.
Additionally, split-level homes are typically smaller in size than many of the modern homes that are being built today, so there is less living space for growing families. Finally, the style of many split-level homes remain very similar to early designs, so they can appear dated, which can deter potential buyers.
All of these factors have led to a decrease in the popularity of split-level homes in recent years, and they are not as commonly seen today as in the past.
What are the disadvantages of split-level houses?
Split-level homes generally offer more living space than traditional houses, however they often waste space in areas that are difficult to furnish and access. These homes also tend to be darker and have less natural light due to the way the staircases and walls interrupt the rooms on different levels.
This can make them feel stuffy and cramped. Additionally, limited privacy is another issue with split-level homes as sounds and conversations can carry up and down levels. Finally, the split design can often be challenging and expensive when it comes to remodeling projects or upgrades.
Additional staircases, walls, and floors need to be taken into consideration for any changes, making them more complex and costly compared to traditional houses.
Is it hard to sell a split-level home?
Selling a split-level home can prove to be challenging for some people. Split-level homes often lack curb appeal due to their unique, split-level design, which can make them harder to sell quickly. Additionally, since split-level homes are typically more affordable, they may also attract more buyers who are less likely to make a significant investment in the home.
Buyers may also be reluctant to choose a split-level home if they are unfamiliar with the design, since it can require some creative interior design to make the most of the space. Finally, split-level homes can be challenging to stage to make it appear more open and inviting, which can make them less attractive to potential buyers.
Are split levels making a comeback?
Split-level homes are indeed making a comeback in popularity. Homebuyers are increasingly drawn to the modern, updated style of split-level homes. The popularity of split levels increased in the 1950s, when the style made its way into public consciousness.
The design is attractive for its ability to give homeowners a lot of space without a large price tag. Plus, the style is perfect for those who want a multifunctional space but don’t want to sacrifice airy atmospheres.
Split-level homes often come with bigger backyards, multiple floors, and great flexibility. Those who are thinking of making a home purchase now may want to at least consider the split-level home with its various advantages.
All in all, split-level homes have come back onto the market and are making a comeback in popularity.
What is the difference between a split-level and a two-story house?
The main difference between a split-level and a two-story house is the way in which the space is laid out. A two-story house is a traditional style home with a single floor that has two levels – an upper level to sleep and a lower level for living.
The lower level is usually the main living area of the home, and the upper level is dedicated to bedrooms and bathrooms. A split-level home, on the other hand, has two or three different levels that are connected by stairs.
The first level typically has a living room, kitchen and dining area. On the second floor, you will find a master bedroom and typically one or two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. On the third level of a split-level, you may find another bedroom or a family room.
Generally, a split-level home has the feeling of being a more open and connected space than a two-story house.
What is the main advantage of a one and one half story house?
The main advantage of a one and one half story house is the extra space that it provides. The extra space of this type of house can be used for multiple purposes. The top half story typically has a larger space that can be used as an extra bedroom, office space, home gym, or even a game room.
Additionally, many one and one half story homes have a sleeping loft on the second floor, providing extra living space. By having this additional space, a one and one half story house can provide a lot of versatility and accommodate larger families while still providing a cozy single level living area.
Additionally, this type of home can help to improve the efficiency of energy costs and conserve energy. The extra insulation and raised ventilation helps to keep the house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, resulting in lower energy bills.
Who invented split level homes?
Split level homes were invented in the United States in the 1940’s, although the exact inventor of the concept is unknown. It is believed that the split level, which has both a main floor and an upper or lower level, was originally created for homes on hilly or difficult to build on terrain.
Split level homes offer an interesting and unique way of utilizing space, with the staircase acting as a focal point and serving to divide rooms and levels. Split level homes were popularized in the 1960s during the post-World War II housing boom and remain popular today due to their flexible nature and how they are designed to work with the surrounding landscapes.
Do split levels sell for less?
It depends. Generally, split-level style homes may not sell for as much as other styles of homes would. This could be due to their design or certain location factors that make it difficult to sell. Typically, split levels lack multiple entry points and buyers may be put off by having to walk up or down a story or two to reach the main level.
They also tend to have an awkward living layout which can make them difficult to be used in multiple ways.
Additionally, certain location factors can affect the sale price of a split-level home. For example, if the home is located in an area with a higher elevation than most other homes in the area, it may be more difficult to sell than a single-story home.
Furthermore, split levels may not be the ideal type of home for a specific neighborhood such as a retirement community or a family-oriented community.
Overall, split levels can be more difficult to sell and may require renovations or adaptations to make them more appealing to buyers. It is important to take all of these factors into consideration when pricing a split-level home.
Why are split levels popular?
Split levels are popular because they make efficient use of space and provide the homeowners with an abundance of options with regards to floor plan configurations. The split level style allows for extra levels within a smaller amount of square footage that can provide added living space.
Split levels offer the flexibility of open plan living, giving homeowners the opportunity to design a home that works for their particular lifestyle. Split levels are also very popular due to their ability to provide effective use of space through the addition of staircases or partial walls.
These features allow for an increased storage capacity and unique storage solutions without adding overall size to the house. Ultimately, the flexibility, efficient use of space and design opportunity of split level homes make them desirable to homeowners looking for a multi-functional and aesthetically pleasing home.