If you’ve ever driven through a neighborhood built in the mid-20th century, chances are you’ve seen a 1960s ranch house. These homes are known for their single-story layout, long rooflines, wide windows, and simple floor plans. They were built to be practical and family-friendly, which is why so many of them are still standing strong today.
But while the bones of a ranch house often remain solid, the exterior can sometimes feel outdated—think tired brick, faded paint, or overgrown landscaping. That’s where the magic of a remodel comes in. A thoughtful renovation can take a plain, timeworn façade and turn it into something fresh, welcoming, and full of charm.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the “before and after” of 1960s ranch house exterior remodels. You’ll discover practical design ideas, expert tips, and inspiring real-life examples that show just how much potential these homes truly have. Whether you’re dreaming about a major transformation or just looking for simple upgrades, you’ll find plenty here to spark your imagination.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to guide homeowners in transforming their 1960s ranch house exteriors with practical ideas, expert insights, and inspiring before-and-after examples that blend timeless character with modern comfort.
1. Understanding the Original 1960s Ranch Exterior
Back in the 1960s, ranch houses were all about simplicity and function. Most of them were single-story, stretched out in a long rectangular or L-shaped design. They carried low-pitched rooflines that hugged the landscape, big front-facing windows to bring in natural light, and a practical open layout inside. On the outside, you’d often see red or brown brick, simple wood siding, and carports or attached garages. These features made them affordable, easy to build, and comfortable for families of the time.
Fast forward to today, and many of these homes show their age. The paint may be faded or peeling, the original brick can feel heavy and dark, and landscaping has often grown wild instead of framing the house. Windows are usually single-pane, which not only look dated but also waste energy. The overall curb appeal—once considered modern—is now often described as plain or tired.
And yet, that’s exactly what makes these houses so exciting to remodel. Their simple shapes, wide façades, and solid construction give you a perfect blank canvas. With thoughtful updates—whether it’s fresh siding, new windows, a front porch addition, or even just paint and landscaping—you can completely transform the look without losing the character that makes a ranch house special. In other words, these homes are full of potential, just waiting to shine again.
2. Planning Your Remodel the Smart Way
Before you start tearing down walls or picking paint colors, it’s important to step back and picture what you really want your ranch house to become. Do you see a clean modern farmhouse with white siding and black trim? Or maybe you’d prefer a mid-century revival that celebrates the home’s original character with bold colors and sleek lines. Some homeowners lean toward a contemporary look with sharp contrasts and metal accents, while others love a rustic twist with natural wood and stone. Defining your goal from the start will guide every choice you make.
The next step is deciding what to keep and what to replace. Many ranch homes have strong rooflines and solid brick that can still shine with a little refresh. Maybe the porch just needs to be expanded rather than rebuilt, or the original windows can be swapped for energy-efficient ones that still match the style. Preserving key features saves money and helps maintain the charm of the home, while replacing outdated elements gives you a chance to bring it into today’s world.
Of course, no remodel can move forward without a clear budget and the right permits. Exterior projects can look simple from the outside, but costs add up quickly once you factor in labor, materials, and unexpected surprises. Permits are just as crucial—especially if you’re adding new structures, moving walls, or changing the roofline. Taking care of these steps upfront keeps your project smooth and stress-free.
Pro Tip: Always start with functionality before aesthetics. Fix drainage problems, correct any slope issues, and make sure the structure is sound before you spend money on the “pretty” updates. A strong foundation ensures that your beautiful remodel will not only look good but also last for decades.
3. Structural Improvements That Make a Big Difference
When it comes to transforming a 1960s ranch house, structural changes often deliver the biggest “wow” factor. These are the upgrades that shift the home from looking flat and ordinary to feeling welcoming, balanced, and full of character.
Add or Expand a Front Porch or Entryway
Most original ranch homes were built with little more than a small stoop at the door. By adding a covered front porch or expanding the entryway, you instantly create a sense of charm and hospitality. Not only does it improve curb appeal, but it also gives you a functional outdoor space where neighbors can stop by or you can enjoy a cup of coffee.
Garage Upgrades that Balance the Façade
Since many ranches have large, front-facing garages, updating them can make a huge difference. Options include a garage “bump-out” to add storage or create balance, installing modern doors with windows, or even adding an extra window to match the rest of the house. These small changes bring symmetry and keep the garage from overpowering the design.
Correct Slopes with Retaining Walls or Grading
Some 1960s lots were built on uneven ground, which can make the home look sunken or awkward. Adding a retaining wall or re-grading the yard not only improves the way the house sits visually but also prevents drainage issues that could damage the foundation. It’s a structural fix that pays off both aesthetically and practically.
Roof and Eaves Refresh
The roofline is one of the most defining features of a ranch house. Updating shingles, changing the color, or improving the eaves can completely change the overall impression of the home. For example, darker shingles can make a low roof look sleeker, while extended eaves or chunkier trim can add weight and balance. These details may seem small, but together they create a polished, modern look.
4. Cosmetic & Design Upgrades
Once the structural work is done, it’s time to focus on the fun part—the cosmetic upgrades that truly shape the personality of your ranch home. These touches don’t just add style; they create the first impression every guest and passerby will notice.
Siding and Surfaces
One of the most popular ways to modernize a 1960s ranch is by refreshing its exterior surfaces. Painting old brick can instantly lighten and brighten a dated façade, while new siding—whether wood, fiber cement, or stucco—offers a fresh, modern texture. Each material comes with its own benefits: wood adds warmth, fiber cement is durable and low-maintenance, and stucco provides a smooth, timeless finish.
Color Palettes That Stand Out
Choosing the right color scheme is like picking the perfect outfit for your home. Many homeowners love the classic white house with black trim look for its crisp and timeless feel. Others prefer earthy neutrals that blend with natural surroundings or bold mid-century brights that honor the original style. Whatever you choose, a well-balanced palette creates harmony and curb appeal.
Windows and Doors
Updating windows and doors makes a huge difference, both in appearance and efficiency. Larger windows bring in more natural light, while modern replacements offer better insulation. If your home feels unbalanced, adding a window to one side of the garage or front wall can restore symmetry. And don’t underestimate the power of a stylish front door—it’s the centerpiece of your entryway.
Trim and Details
Sometimes it’s the smallest changes that leave the biggest impression. Replacing thin fascia boards with chunkier trim, adding sleek gutters, or installing shutters can transform a plain house into one with character. Railings around porches or steps also add definition and style, tying the whole look together.
Together, these upgrades breathe new life into a simple 1960s ranch, turning it into a home that feels both fresh and timeless.
5. Landscaping and Outdoor Enhancements
No matter how beautiful your remodel is, the exterior won’t feel complete without thoughtful landscaping. The yard frames your home, and the right choices can soften harsh lines, add color, and make the whole property more inviting.
Foundation Plantings to Soften Hard Lines
Many ranch houses have long, flat fronts that can look a little boxy. Adding foundation plantings—like shrubs, ornamental grasses, or layered flower beds—breaks up those straight lines and gives the home a welcoming touch. Choose plants that grow to different heights so the house feels grounded without being hidden.
Walkways, Driveways, and Hardscape Updates
Don’t overlook the pathways leading to your front door. Replacing a cracked concrete walkway with stone pavers or brick instantly boosts curb appeal. Driveways can also be upgraded with fresh asphalt, stamped concrete, or even a simple border that ties into the home’s color palette. Hardscaping adds structure and creates a polished look.
Outdoor Lighting That Works Day and Night
Exterior lighting is both practical and stylish. Pathway lights make your home safer for visitors, while wall sconces or lanterns highlight architectural details. Uplighting trees or shrubs adds drama at night and turns the yard into a cozy space after dark. Good lighting makes your remodel shine—even when the sun goes down.
Seasonal Plant Choices
A home that looks alive in every season feels welcoming year-round. Think spring blossoms, summer greenery, autumn color, and evergreen plants for winter. By mixing perennials, annuals, and evergreens, you’ll always have something that keeps your home cheerful and eye-catching.
With the right mix of landscaping, hardscaping, and lighting, your 1960s ranch will feel less like “just another house” and more like a home full of character and warmth.
6. Balancing Character with Modern Needs
One of the joys of remodeling a 1960s ranch house is finding the sweet spot between honoring its mid-century charm and meeting today’s lifestyle standards. The goal isn’t to erase the past but to enhance it in a way that makes the home more comfortable, efficient, and easy to maintain.
Preserving Mid-Century Charm
Ranch houses are known for their low rooflines, wide brick façades, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Keeping these elements intact helps the home stay true to its roots. Instead of covering original brick, consider painting or cleaning it to highlight its texture. If your roofline is strong and balanced, let it shine as a defining feature rather than altering it too much. These touches keep the home’s original personality alive while giving it a fresh face.
Upgrading for Efficiency
The 1960s didn’t prioritize energy savings, but you can. Swapping out old single-pane windows for double-pane or energy-efficient glass cuts down on drafts and lowers utility bills. Adding insulated siding helps maintain indoor comfort, while modern roofing materials reflect heat and improve durability. These updates may not be visible at first glance, but they make a world of difference in how the home performs.
Choosing Low-Maintenance Materials
Nobody wants to spend every weekend painting trim or patching siding. Today’s materials—like fiber cement, composite trims, and durable metal roofing—are designed to last for decades with minimal upkeep. By blending these low-maintenance solutions with the home’s existing character, you create a house that looks beautiful and is practical for modern living.
Striking this balance ensures your remodel celebrates the timeless charm of a ranch while giving you the comfort and efficiency of a brand-new home.
7. Real-World Before and After Examples
Sometimes the best inspiration comes from seeing how others have breathed new life into their ranch homes. These real projects show how different budgets, goals, and design choices can completely transform a 1960s exterior.
Redeem Your Ground
This family’s remodel is a textbook example of how thoughtful updates can change everything. They started by removing overgrown landscaping that was hiding the home’s best features. The dated red brick was painted a soft gray, instantly lightening the façade. The white roof shingles were swapped for a sleek dark gray, giving the home a grounded, modern feel. Trim work was carefully updated—chunkier around the door, subtle around the eaves—to create balance. New foundation plantings softened the front yard, pulling the look together. The result is a home that feels elegant, welcoming, and full of curb appeal.
HighCraft Builders
This professional remodel went a step further by blending rustic and farmhouse influences. A new front porch was added, complete with columns and seating, to create a true focal point. Fresh siding in light tones, paired with dark trim, brought crisp contrast and a modern farmhouse style. The garage was expanded with a bump-out, and additional windows were added to restore symmetry. Even the porch steps were outlined with brick for a refined touch. The transformation proves how structural upgrades, when combined with smart design, can turn an ordinary ranch into a showstopper.
Her Party Pants
Not every remodel requires a massive budget. This project shows how simple DIY updates can make a noticeable impact. The homeowners focused on smaller, more affordable changes—painting siding, refreshing trim, and adding updated accents. Even without structural changes, the home looks brighter, more stylish, and better cared for. It’s a reminder that sometimes a few thoughtful cosmetic fixes are all you need to fall back in love with your home.
Key Lessons Learned
- Landscaping and paint alone can completely reshape curb appeal.
- Structural upgrades like porches and garage symmetry create lasting impact.
- Mixing old and new elements preserves character while adding modern comfort.
- Even budget-friendly DIY fixes can make a big difference when done thoughtfully.
These before-and-after stories show that no matter your budget or design preference, there’s always a way to bring new life to a 1960s ranch house.
8. Common Challenges and How to Solve Them
Every remodel comes with a few bumps in the road. The good news is that most challenges can be solved with some planning and the right advice. Here are a few issues homeowners often face when updating a 1960s ranch—and how to handle them.
Material Mismatches
Blending old and new materials isn’t always easy. Fresh siding next to original brick can sometimes look out of place. The key is choosing complementary textures and colors. For example, if you’re keeping brick, paint it or pair it with siding in a neutral tone so the contrast feels intentional. Working with a designer or using digital mockups can help you visualize the final look before committing.
Hidden Issues Beneath the Surface
Once construction starts, it’s common to uncover problems like foundation cracks, rotting wood, or outdated wiring. These surprises can be frustrating, but they’re also opportunities to strengthen your home for the long run. Set aside a contingency fund—usually 10–15% of your budget—to cover these unexpected fixes without derailing the project.
Budget Overruns and Timeline Delays
It’s easy to underestimate how much time and money an exterior remodel will take. Weather delays, shipping issues, or rising material costs can all play a role. To stay on track, get multiple quotes, confirm timelines in writing, and build flexibility into your plan. Remember, rushing usually leads to mistakes—patience is part of the process.
Climate Considerations
Your local climate should guide your material choices. In humid regions, wood siding may rot faster, while in snowy areas, a steep roof with durable shingles will prevent ice buildup. In sunny climates, reflective roofing materials and UV-resistant paint help preserve your home’s look. Always ask your contractor about region-specific solutions so your remodel lasts.
Facing challenges is part of any remodel journey, but with preparation and smart choices, these hurdles become manageable steps toward a better home.
9. Budget and Cost Insights
One of the biggest questions homeowners ask is: “How much will this remodel really cost?” The truth is, it depends on the scope of your project, the materials you choose, and whether you’re hiring professionals or doing some of the work yourself. Still, having ballpark ranges helps you plan with confidence.
Typical Cost Ranges
- Exterior Paint: $3,000–$8,000 depending on home size and paint quality.
- Siding Replacement: $10,000–$25,000 for materials like vinyl or fiber cement; natural wood may cost more.
- Porch Builds or Expansions: $8,000–$20,000 depending on design, materials, and whether you add features like railings or a roof.
- Roof Replacement: $7,000–$15,000 for asphalt shingles; metal or specialty roofs may be higher.
These ranges vary by region and contractor, but they give you a sense of where your budget might land.
DIY vs. Professional Help
It’s tempting to save money by doing projects yourself, and sometimes that makes sense. Painting, landscaping, or small cosmetic fixes can often be DIY-friendly if you’re handy. But when it comes to structural work—like building porches, replacing roofs, or installing new siding—hiring professionals is almost always the safer choice. Mistakes in these areas can cost more to fix than hiring an expert in the first place.
Stretching Your Budget Without Cutting Corners
A few smart strategies can help you get the most out of your money:
- Prioritize impact projects first. For example, a fresh coat of paint or new entry door can transform the look without draining your budget.
- Mix high and low. Invest in quality roofing or siding but save on simpler updates like landscaping or lighting.
- Plan for phases. You don’t have to do everything at once. Breaking the remodel into stages allows you to spread out costs without compromising quality.
By being realistic about costs, knowing where to invest, and planning ahead, you can create a remodel that feels like a big transformation—without big regrets.
10. Project Timeline & Seasonal Tips
A remodel feels a lot less stressful when you have a roadmap to follow. Breaking the project into clear steps keeps everything organized and helps you avoid wasting time or money.
Step-by-Step Remodel Sequence
Think of your remodel in layers:
- Prep Work: Start with inspections, permits, and site prep. This is where you handle drainage, grading, or any foundation concerns.
- Structural Changes: Next, tackle the big stuff like porches, garage updates, or roof replacements. These are the backbone of your remodel and should come before cosmetic work.
- Surfaces & Finishes: Once the structure is solid, move on to siding, painting, windows, and doors. This is when the house really begins to take shape visually.
- Landscaping & Final Touches: Wrap things up with plantings, lighting, and hardscaping. These finishing touches tie everything together.
Best Seasons for Exterior Work
Weather plays a huge role in remodeling success. Spring and early summer are often ideal since the weather is mild, materials are easier to work with, and crews are more available. Fall can also work well in many regions. Winter and peak summer, however, can bring delays—either from snow and freezing or extreme heat. Scheduling during the right season helps you stay on time and on budget.
Phasing Improvements to Reduce Stress
If a full remodel feels overwhelming, break it into phases. Maybe start with paint and landscaping this year, then tackle a porch or roof replacement the next. Spreading projects out keeps costs manageable and allows you to live with each update before moving to the next. Many homeowners find this phased approach both practical and less stressful.
By planning your timeline carefully and aligning with the seasons, you’ll not only enjoy smoother progress but also a remodel that feels easier to manage from start to finish.
Conclusion
A 1960s ranch house may start out looking plain, but with thoughtful planning and smart design, it can be transformed into something truly timeless. From adding porches and updating roofs to refreshing siding and landscaping, every change—big or small—builds toward a home that feels welcoming, functional, and full of charm.
The key is finding the balance between expert advice and your own personal style. Maybe you love the clean lines of a modern farmhouse, or perhaps you prefer keeping the mid-century spirit alive with bold colors and simple shapes. Whatever your vision, the right upgrades will help your ranch reflect both your taste and today’s standards of comfort and efficiency.
In the end, these homes prove that potential is everywhere—you just have to see it. With a little creativity and the right guidance, any 1960s ranch can go from tired and dated to a dream home that feels brand new while honoring its history.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. The remodeling ideas, cost ranges, and examples shared are based on general industry knowledge and publicly available case studies. Actual results, costs, and requirements may vary depending on location, contractor expertise, materials, and local building codes. Before beginning any home renovation, consult licensed professionals for inspections, permits, and personalized guidance. We do not guarantee outcomes, and homeowners should make decisions at their own discretion.
