With so many exterior building products readily available, it can be tempting to use as many as possible. We reached out to our friends at Ply Gem to learn more about choosing exterior products to create a cohesive style.
Adding multiple materials whether it be different types of siding, stone or brick can add character and curb appeal. However, it is best to keep materials to a maximum of three. Additionally, the style of window selected is also important. If the window style selected does not match the architectural style of the house, it can throw off the whole design.
Think about the main exterior material. This is what you will see the most of on your home – not only the front, but also on the sides and rear of your home. If your home is a frame construction, the main body is most likely siding. If your home is constructed with concrete block your main body material is most likely stucco. Once you know your home’s main body material, you can start adding other materials that complement the architectural style.
Craftsman is a fairly flexible style that can use a main body of either stucco, siding, or brick. Consider adding shingles to the front exterior and either brick or stone as a wainscot or on the base of columns. Windows are usually single or double hung with vertical grille patterns. The exterior trim traditionally contrasts the window frame color.
If your main body is siding, Modern Hill Country looks great when board and batten siding is applied to the gables with brick wainscot on the foundation. This works best using all-horizontal siding with brick at the foundation. Windows for these style homes are usually large or combinations of single or double hung with a fixed or picture window. Grille patterns can be limited to the upper sash or in both.
French Country incorporates generous areas of stone with mostly stucco. Windows play an important role in this design. Combinations of geometric and rectangular single or double hung and fixed windows creating geometric patterns to complement the stone and stucco. Incorporate brick headers over your windows with cultured brick and stone. The elegant style of French Country focuses on vertical proportions. Use a less rugged, more refined stone or consider board and batten siding in a gable to reinforce the vertical height. Six-foot windows with vertical grille patterns are a classic look for French Country and accentuates the striking proportions of this home style.
Traditional and Modern Farmhouses are instantly recognizable for their lighter colored (oftentimes white) board and batten siding and dark or black roofs. Black or darker colored windows and wood columns are the other hallmarks of farmhouse design. You can achieve the classic look with traditional or steel siding. Steel siding can protect your investment longer against extreme weather, pests, and dents & dings while delivering the look you want with exceptional durability. Steel siding is available in both board & batten and lap styles. Board & batten adds textual interest and can increase the sense of height if used vertically. Lap style applications have been popular for many years and can create visually interesting contrasts when installed horizontally next to board & batten.
When building a new home, let your creativity and style show on the exterior as well as the interior of your home. Just keep in mind some basic fundamentals, such as the rule of three, and you will be well on your way to a timeless design full of character and curb appeal.
Schumacher Homes, based in Canton, Ohio, is America’s largest custom homebuilder, with operations in 32 markets in 14 states across the country. The National Housing Quality award winning company has built over 19,000 homes, customized to fit each family’s lifestyle, since its founding by Paul Schumacher in 1992. Schumacher Homes takes each customer’s inspiration and gives it a home. Each Schumacher Homes location includes a one-stop shopping design studio and model homes displaying the latest in architectural and product trends. Stop in today, be inspired and receive your no obligation price quote.