A Stunning Siding Transformation in Dearborn, Michigan: Newport Bay Dutchlap with Shake Accents on a Craftsman-Style Home
When you think about the character of Dearborn, Michigan, you probably picture its beautiful neighborhoods filled with historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. Many of the homes in Dearborn were built decades ago, and while their charm is undeniable, they often need a little help when it comes to modern updates and long-term protection from Michigan’s tough weather.
That’s exactly the case with one of our latest projects—a complete siding transformation on an older Craftsman-style home in Dearborn. This home had incredible potential, but its old siding was showing years of wear and tear. Our team at Level Up Improvement stepped in to bring it back to life with PlyGem Newport Bay Dutchlap siding and custom shake accents on the front dormer and the rear of the house.
The result? A massive transformation that combines timeless Craftsman character with modern durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the project from start to finish, highlighting why Newport Bay Dutchlap was the perfect choice, how shake siding adds dimension and detail, and why professional installation makes all the difference. If you’re a homeowner in Dearborn or Southeast Michigan thinking about updating your siding, this story is for you.
Why the Craftsman-Style Home Needed an Update
Craftsman-style homes are well-loved in Michigan for their charm and architectural details. They often feature deep front porches, overhanging eaves, and decorative dormers. But like any older home, maintenance is key.
The siding on this home had reached the point where patchwork repairs weren’t enough. Years of Michigan winters, heavy winds, and rain had taken a toll. Fading, warping, and energy loss were becoming real issues for the homeowners. They wanted something that would restore their home’s look, provide strong protection, and reduce maintenance headaches.
That’s where PlyGem siding came in.
Why We Chose PlyGem Newport Bay Dutchlap
Siding is more than just a cover for your house—it’s your home’s shield against the elements. The choice of PlyGem’s Newport Bay Dutchlap was deliberate and smart.
Benefits of Dutchlap Siding
- Distinctive look: Dutchlap siding has a slight bevel or curve at the top of each board, giving it a shadowed edge. This creates a bold, traditional look that fits perfectly with a Craftsman home.
- Durability: Vinyl Dutchlap siding is built to withstand Michigan’s harsh winters, spring rains, and hot summers without warping, cracking, or peeling.
- Low maintenance: Unlike wood, it doesn’t require constant painting or staining. A quick wash keeps it looking brand new.
- Energy efficiency: Installed correctly with proper underlayment, Dutchlap siding helps regulate temperature and cut down on drafts.
Why Newport Bay?
Color matters more than most people realize when it comes to siding. Newport Bay is rich, timeless, and versatile. It’s bold enough to stand out but classic enough to complement the Craftsman design. Against the home’s white trim, the deep bay blue immediately adds curb appeal and personality.
Adding Character with Shake Siding Accents
While Dutchlap siding makes a beautiful base, it’s the shake siding accents that truly make this project special.
We installed PlyGem shake siding around the front dormer and at the rear of the home. Shakes are designed to mimic the texture of hand-split cedar, which adds a rustic, natural feel that works perfectly on Craftsman homes.
Why Add Shake Siding?
- Dimension: Shake siding breaks up the flat planes of a home and adds depth and texture.
- Character: Craftsman homes are known for detail work, and shake accents highlight architectural features like dormers.
- Contrast: The shake siding contrasts beautifully with the smooth lines of the Dutchlap, creating a custom, high-end look.
By mixing Dutchlap and shake siding, we created a home exterior that feels both modern and timeless.
The Installation Process
At Level Up Improvement, our motto is “Do it right.” That means we don’t cut corners. On this Dearborn project, we followed a detailed process to make sure the siding wasn’t just beautiful but also built to last.
- Inspection and Prep Work
We started by carefully inspecting the old siding and the home’s structure. Any damaged or rotted material had to be replaced to give the new siding a solid foundation. This step is crucial—skipping it can lead to hidden problems later. - House Wrap and Insulation
We installed a protective house wrap and added insulation where needed. This improves energy efficiency and ensures the home is shielded from moisture. - Dutchlap Siding Installation
Our crew installed the Newport Bay Dutchlap siding with precision, making sure every panel was straight, secure, and aligned. Craftsman homes have lots of detail around windows and trim, so we paid close attention to those transitions. - Shake Accent Installation
The shake siding on the dormer and rear of the home required special care. These accents had to line up perfectly and complement the Dutchlap without overpowering it. - Finishing Touches
We completed the project with new trim details, clean caulking, and a final inspection. Our goal is always a flawless finish that makes the home look like it was built this way from the start.
The Transformation
The difference was nothing short of amazing.
Before, the home looked tired and worn. Its character was hidden behind faded siding. After the installation, the Newport Bay Dutchlap and shake accents made the house look vibrant, fresh, and full of life.
Neighbors noticed. The homeowners received compliments right away, and the curb appeal of the entire street improved. More importantly, the home is now well-protected from Michigan’s weather for decades to come.
Why Professional Installation Matters
It’s worth emphasizing: the quality of siding isn’t just about the product—it’s about the installation. Even the best siding can fail if it’s not installed correctly.
Our team takes pride in doing things the right way, every time. That means precise cuts, proper sealing, and attention to detail around edges and trim. In Michigan’s climate, small mistakes can lead to big problems, so professional installation is key.
Siding and Home Value in Dearborn, Michigan
For Dearborn homeowners, updating siding isn’t just about looks—it’s an investment.
- Increased home value: According to real estate experts, siding replacement offers one of the best returns on investment for exterior projects.
- Energy savings: With proper insulation and siding, homeowners can see reduced heating and cooling costs.
- Curb appeal: In neighborhoods like Dearborn, where many homes have history and character, a fresh exterior makes a property stand out.
This Craftsman home went from dated to stunning, and the value added is both financial and emotional.
Why Choose Level Up Improvement?
At Level Up Improvement, we specialize in siding, roofing, and exterior projects across Dearborn and Southeast Michigan. What sets us apart is our commitment to transparency, communication, and doing the job right the first time.
When we take on a project, we treat it like our own home. From material selection to installation, our focus is always on quality, durability, and customer satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
This siding project in Dearborn, Michigan is a perfect example of how the right materials and expert installation can completely transform a home. The combination of Newport Bay Dutchlap siding and shake accents gave this Craftsman house a bold new look while preserving its timeless charm.
If you’re a homeowner in Dearborn or the surrounding Southeast Michigan area, and you’re ready to upgrade your siding, our team is here to help. Whether you want a full transformation or just an update to your home’s exterior, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
At Level Up Improvement, our slogan says it all: Do it right.