Exterior Roast: 5 Home Design Trends We’re Glad Are Gone

Some Trends Were Never Built to Last

After 25 years of upgrading homes across Central Minnesota, we’ve seen some exterior design decisions that have not aged well. And while every home tells a story, some chapters are better left in the past.

This lighthearted roast highlights five outdated exterior trends we’re thrilled to see fading — and what modern upgrades BD Exteriors recommends instead.

If you are considering making some on-trend or timeless exterior upgrades, contact BD Exteriors’ local shop at (320) 229-2855 or use our online form to get started!

1. Scalloped Siding That Belongs on a Dollhouse

Vinyl scallops had their moment — but today, they’re more costume party than curb appeal. Especially when they’re discolored or mismatched on gables.

What to upgrade to: Clean lap siding, LP SmartSide board & batten panels, or steel shake gable accents that match your main siding.

Our picks: LP SmartSide with crisp trim lines to elevate any gable.

Before-and-after photos of a home that received exterior upgrades.

2. Patchwork Siding from Years of Storm Repairs

It starts with a small section here… another repair there… and before you know it, your house has three different shades of tan.

What to upgrade to: A unified siding system in a single color and material. Bonus: It improves insulation and resale value.

Local favorite: Full siding replacement using LP SmartSide or Edco steel, installed clean from corner to corner.

3. Faded Roof Shingles That Were Supposed to Be Gray

UV rays + low-quality shingles = unexpected beige. A faded, patchy roof brings down your whole exterior — even if everything else is in good shape.

What to upgrade to: CertainTeed Landmark or Landmark Pro shingles in MaxDef colors that resist fading and hold their tone.

Added benefit: Enhanced algae resistance and better curb appeal from the street.

4. Rusty Gutters & Mismatched Downspouts

Bright white gutters on brown fascia? Rust stains down your siding? Gutters might be utilitarian — but when they’re falling apart, they make the whole house look neglected.

What to upgrade to: Seamless gutters custom-matched to your home’s trim and roofline, with solid brackets and proper pitch.

Avoid: Multi-color patch jobs or leaking seams that destroy landscaping.

5. Faux Stained Glass Entry Doors (Gold Trim Optional)

Remember those front doors with frosted fake stained glass and ornate brass handles? They were bold once. Now they just let in drafts and look out of place.

What to upgrade to: Bold, energy-efficient doors in matte black, deep navy, or classic red with clean glass styles.

Pro tip: Choose modern locks and insulated glass for both aesthetics and performance.

Before-and-after photos of a home that received exterior upgrades.

Don’t Just Follow Trends — Build Timeless Value

While this blog was all in good fun, it’s a real reminder that function, style, and longevity matter.

If your home’s exterior is starting to show its age — or a few unfortunate fads — BD Exteriors can help you refresh the right way with updated roofingsidingwindowsdoors, and gutters.

Serving: St. Cloud, Sartell, Monticello, Foley, Sauk Rapids, Cold Spring, Clearwater, and surrounding areas

Contact us today for a no-pressure quote!