Are you familiar with the Minnesota mullet? No, not the oh-so-stylish cuts of our high school hockey teams during the MN State High School Hockey Tournament. “The Minnesota mullet, when it comes to home design, is focusing upgrades on the front exterior of the home, using more premium materials like stone and wood, and then wrapping the rest of the home in other materials like vinyl to strategically save costs on the back half,” explains Brandon Soleta, Project Development at Exteriors by Highmark.
The team at Exteriors by Highmark definitely know how to make a mullet look good.
As one of the Highmark brands, which also includes Highmark Custom Homes & Remodeling, Ruby+Suede Interior Design, Restorations by Highmark, Christian Brothers Cabinets, and Highmark Home Services, the Exteriors division focuses on everything home exterior – from windows and siding to roofing and gutters.
Spring is the perfect time to get started on those home projects. “After being trapped in your home all winter, people are ready to get outside. Starting on those home projects early allows you to actually be able to enjoy and use those spaces all through summer and fall,” says Brandon.
“Giving your home a facelift and changing out materials is one of the most effective ways homeowners can instantly improve curb appeal,” says Brandon. “Whether it’s roofing, siding, or gutters, changing out the old with the new makes a huge impact. Eden Prairie exploded in the 1980’s, and many of the homes still reflect those ‘80s styles with so much brown and taupe. Focusing on just one or two features can make all the difference. For example, updating paint colors, fixing a porch, or upgrading siding to incorporate different profiles with accents or wood shake immediately ups that curb appeal.”
And the Exteriors team ensures you’ll love the result. “We use a web-based platform called Hover to generate a 3D model of your home, allowing our team to create renderings of how it will look with different designs and upgrades,” says Brandon. “We’re known for the highest quality, not only in the materials we use, but also in the workmanship we deliver. We’re meticulous about how everything is installed, so you get that next level of craftsmanship in each project.”
“We take care of our clients from start to finish,” continues Brandon. “One of our recent projects helped a client repair storm damage, fixing leaks and replacing windows. It was a traumatic event for them, and being able to help them through the transformation of their home, and see them feel completely satisfied at the end of the project is why I love what I do.”
Your home’s exterior is worth the investment. “It’s the outer shell of your home and protects you every night – from the Minnesota winter, hail, and tornadoes. Being proactive and getting ahead of small issues makes a big difference,” says Brandon. “A lot of times, when you notice something, like rotting wood or woodpecker holes, it’s usually only the tip of the iceberg, and the problems could go deeper. It’s important to regularly check the outside of your home.”
Not sure where to begin? Start with this Spring Maintenance Checklist from the experts at Exteriors by Highmark:
1. Inspect Roof
Check for any loose or damaged shingles. Look for signs of wear, cracks, leakage, or mold.
2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Remove debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.
3. Inspect Siding
Look for cracks, holes, or signs of damage in need of repair. Clean siding with a pressure washer if necessary.
4. Check Foundation
Look for cracks or settling. Foundation movement can cause siding to separate and create stress along the roofline, increasing the risk of leaks.
5. Examine Windows and Doors
Check for any gaps, cracks, or damaged weather stripping.
6. Inspect HVAC System
Poor ventilation can trap heat and moisture in your attic, leading to roof decking damage, shingle deterioration, and premature roofing failure.
7. Test Plumbing
Hidden leaks inside walls can cause rot and moisture buildup that warps siding, damages exterior sheathing, and weakens structural components supporting your roof and siding.
8. Inspect Attic and Basement
Look for signs of pests, water damage on walls and ceilings, or insulation issues.
9. Inspect Outdoor Lighting
Clean fixtures and replace bulbs as needed. Consider installing energy-efficient LED bulbs for cost savings.
10. Deck and Patio Maintenance
Check for signs of wear, rot, or damage. Clean surfaces and reseal or repaint as needed to prolong their lifespan.
“With more than 23 years in construction, Highmark is equipped to take on any home project, big or small,” says Brandon. “From exterior upgrades to interior improvements, we have the team and expertise to guide homeowners through every step.”
From roofing and siding to windows – and yes, even the ever-coveted Minnesota mullet – Highmark delivers craftsmanship, coordination, and confidence under one trusted name.
ExteriorsByHighmark.com
"It’s the outer shell of your home and protects you every night – from the Minnesota winter, hail, and tornadoes. Being proactive and getting ahead of small issues makes a big difference."