1960s ranch homes have a special place in American neighborhoods. These single-story houses were built for comfort and practicality. But let’s be honest, many look tired today.
The good news? An exterior remodel can completely transform your ranch house.
I’ve seen ordinary homes become showstoppers with the right changes. Fresh paint, new siding, and smart landscaping work magic. The difference between “before” and “after” photos is often shocking.
Who benefits from these makeovers? Homeowners want to modernize their space. Real estate investors are looking to flip properties. Anyone who loves seeing old homes get new life.
Your ranch house has good bones. It just needs the right updates to shine again. The transformation possibilities are endless when you know what works.
What Makes a 1960s Ranch House Unique?
Ranch houses from the 1960s have distinct features. Low-pitched roofs create their signature horizontal look. Most are single-story, spreading wide rather than tall.
Large windows were popular then. They let in natural light and connect indoor and outdoor spaces. You’ll often see brick or wood siding on the exterior.
The layout is functional but simple.
These homes were built for families who wanted easy living. No stairs to climb. Rooms flow from one to the next. Garages attach directly to the main house.
But here’s the problem: many look plain today. The façades lack visual interest. Materials have aged poorly. What seemed modern 60 years ago now looks dated.
Common issues include faded paint and worn siding. Landscaping often becomes overgrown or sparse. The original charm gets lost under years of neglect.
The Before: Common Exterior Problems in Old Ranch Homes
Most 1960s ranch houses show their age on the outside. The paint has faded to dull, lifeless colors. Siding looks weathered and sometimes mismatched from partial repairs.
Roofing materials deteriorate over decades. Shingles curl or go missing. Gutters sag or pull away from the house.
Many homes lack architectural details that create visual interest.
The front entrance often feels boring. A plain door sits under a small overhang. No special lighting or features draw your eye.
Landscaping tells its own sad story. Overgrown shrubs hide windows. Dead or struggling plants line walkways. Or the opposite happens – bare soil with no plants at all.
Garages dominate the front view. Large garage doors become the main focal point instead of the home’s entry.
These problems make the house look neglected. Potential buyers drive past without a second glance.
Planning the Remodel: Key Goals and Inspirations
Smart planning makes any remodel successful. Start by setting clear goals for your ranch house exterior.
Your main goal should be modernizing while keeping the home’s original character. Ranch houses have timeless appeal when updated thoughtfully.
Budget comes next.
Decide what you can spend and prioritize the most important changes. A fresh paint job gives you the biggest bang for your buck. New front doors and lighting create strong first impressions.
Gather inspiration from different sources. Mid-century modern styles honor the home’s era. Farmhouse elements add warmth and texture. Contemporary updates bring clean, fresh looks.
Pinterest, Instagram, and home improvement shows offer endless ideas. Drive through neighborhoods to see what works on similar homes.
Should you hire professionals or go DIY? That depends on your skills and available time. Painting and landscaping work well for DIY projects. Roofing and electrical work need licensed professionals.
The Remodel: What Changed and Why It Works
The transformation starts with new siding materials. Fiber cement boards replace old wood or worn brick. Vertical panels add visual height and modern appeal.
Some homeowners paint existing brick instead of replacing it. This costs less but still creates dramatic change.
Roofing updates make a huge difference. New shingles in darker colors look more current. Extended eaves add character and provide better weather protection.
Window replacements improve both looks and energy efficiency.
New trim around windows creates contrast and definition. Black or dark bronze frames look especially sharp against light siding.
Paint color choices transform the entire appearance. Earthy tones like warm grays and soft blues feel fresh. Bold accent colors on front doors create focal points. Modern neutrals work with any landscaping.
The entryway gets special attention. Statement doors in bright colors or natural wood make strong impressions. New porch lighting adds safety and style. Some homes add small porches or extended overhangs.
Landscaping ties everything together. Native plants require less water and maintenance. Path lighting guides visitors safely. Updated walkways use modern materials like stamped concrete or natural stone.
Don’t forget the garage and driveway. Fresh paint on garage doors helps them blend better. Driveway repairs or resurfacing complete the professional look.
The After: Stunning Results and Curb Appeal Transformation
The finished remodel reveals a completely different home. What once looked tired now appears fresh and inviting.
New siding creates clean lines and modern texture. The updated roof complements the horizontal design without fighting it. Fresh paint brings everything together with a cohesive color scheme.
Windows look crisp and energy-efficient.
The enhanced entryway becomes a true welcome point. A beautiful door draws visitors forward. Improved lighting makes the space feel safe and warm.
Landscaping frames the house perfectly. Healthy plants soften hard edges while keeping maintenance reasonable. Clean walkways guide people naturally to the front door.
Even the garage looks intentional now. Instead of dominating the view, it supports the overall design.
Neighbors often stop to compliment the transformation. Some ask for contractor recommendations. Real estate agents notice the improved curb appeal immediately.
The home value increases significantly. More importantly, you feel proud driving up to your house each day.
Before-and-after photos show the dramatic difference. Side-by-side comparisons help you plan similar updates for your own home.
Budget Breakdown and Cost-Saving Tips
- Set realistic expectations: Full exterior remodels range from $15,000 to $50,000+, depending on your home’s size and material choices.
- Prioritize high-impact changes: Paint, front doors, and lighting deliver the most visual improvement for your dollar.
- Phase your project over time: Complete one major element each year to spread costs and reduce financial stress.
- DIY what you can safely handle: Painting, simple landscaping, and hardware updates save labor costs.
- Shop for materials during sales: Buy siding, roofing, and windows during off-season promotions.
- Reuse existing elements when possible: Clean and repaint garage doors instead of replacing them.
- Choose energy-efficient upgrades: New windows and doors qualify for tax credits while reducing utility bills.
- Get multiple contractor bids: Prices vary significantly, so compare at least three qualified professionals.
- Consider alternative materials: Fiber cement siding costs less than natural wood but looks similar and lasts longer.
Lessons Learned and Expert Tips
- Apply for permits early. Most exterior changes require permits, and approval takes time.
- Order materials with extra quantities. Having 10% extra prevents delays when pieces get damaged or measurements change.
- Plan around weather seasons. Schedule roofing and siding during dry months for better working conditions.
- Hire contractors with ranch house experience. They understand the architectural style and common challenges.
- Focus on proportions over trends. What looks good on other home styles might not work on ranch houses.
- Test paint colors in different lighting. Colors look different in morning sun versus evening shade.
- Coordinate all exterior elements. Make sure siding, roofing, trim, and landscaping work together as a complete design.
- Document the process with photos. Before, during, and after pictures help with insurance claims and future maintenance.
- Prepare for unexpected discoveries. Older homes often reveal hidden problems once work begins.
Conclusion
A 1960s ranch house can change from dated to spectacular with thoughtful exterior updates. The right combination of modern materials, smart color choices, and professional landscaping creates remarkable results.
These homes have strong architectural bones that respond well to updates.
I’ve seen countless transformations that prove the potential. Fresh siding replaces worn materials. Updated roofing adds character and protection. Strategic paint colors bring everything together beautifully.
The investment pays off if staying forever or preparing to sell. Improved curb appeal increases property values significantly. More importantly, you’ll love coming home each day.
Start by comparing before-and-after photos of similar projects. This helps you visualize possibilities for your own home. Take your time planning, but don’t wait too long to begin. Your ranch house transformation awaits
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remodel a 1960s ranch house exterior?
Costs vary by size and materials but often range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more. Basic updates like paint and landscaping start at the lower end, while full siding and roofing replacements reach the higher range. Getting multiple contractor quotes helps you find the best price for your specific project.
Do I need a permit for exterior remodeling?
Yes, most exterior changes like roofing, siding, and structural changes require permits. Contact your local building department early in the planning process to understand requirements. Skipping permits can create problems when you sell your home later.
Can I keep some of the original exterior features?
Absolutely. Blending original elements with modern upgrades adds character and saves costs. Many homeowners keep existing brick walls but update trim and paint colors. Original windows can stay if they’re in good condition and energy-efficient.
What’s the most impactful change for curb appeal?
A fresh paint job, updated entryway, and clean landscaping can make a huge visual difference. These three changes cost less than major renovations but create dramatic improvements. Focus on these areas first if you have a limited budget.
How long does a full exterior remodel usually take?
It can take 2–8 weeks, depending on the project scope, weather, and contractor availability. Simple paint jobs finish in days, while complete siding replacement takes several weeks. Weather delays are common, so plan extra time during rainy seasons.
