In a post-pandemic world where interest rates are soaring and housing costs show no signs of easing, many homeowners’ mindsets are shifting from upgrading houses to upgrading the house they already own. More than a third of Americans now believe they’ll never move again, making home improvements less of a luxury and more of a long-term investment.
One upgrade gaining serious traction? Masonry. From brick siding to custom patios, homeowners are finding smart, sustainable ways to boost both beauty and value without uprooting their lives.
Why Masonry is a Smart Investment
As inflation stretches budgets and mortgages lock families into their current homes, the value of “forever home” thinking becomes clear. Brick and stone improvements offer durability, functionality, and curb appeal – all in one upgrade. And unlike cosmetic tweaks, well-done masonry work protects the very bones of your home.
Atlanta-based masonry expert Erica Cabrera says her team atLJIA Masonry sees a growing number of homeowners focused on preservation. She explained to TrustDALE that people are really wanting their houses to last, so her masons often recommend repairing or renovating the mortar on brick or stone siding (called “tuckpointing”). Though being a relatively small maintenance project, tuckpointing helps keep homes solid for decades.
And she’s right! Poorly maintained masonry can lead to bowed walls, cracking steps, or worse – water intrusion that will damage your home’s foundation. A few proactive repairs now can save tens of thousands in structural problems later.
What Adds the Most Value? Start Outside
Among the most popular (and valuable) projects? Patios. Especially in the South, where outdoor living is part of the lifestyle, patios are more than a place to relax. They’re a direct extension of the home’s usable space.
Cabrera explained that her team has seen a major uptick in projects for new or updated patios. This makes sense for a few reasons: not only do patios contribute to more relaxing and livable outdoor spaces, they also help prevent erosion and protect the home’s foundation. Many homeowners may also take it a step further by adding outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or screened-in porches to create multipurpose areas that feel like an outdoor room.
Beyond patios, other value-adding projects include:
- Reinforcing or replacing deteriorating steps
- Custom stone walkways
- Brick siding repairs
- Decorative retaining walls with built-in seating
These features don’t just increase resale value. They improve everyday enjoyment and reduce the need for constant maintenance.
Choosing the Right Masonry Partner
If you're considering a masonry project, choosing the right professional is critical. Cabrera advises making sure to ask about options for cost-effective materials. Sometimes homeowners don’t know if they should go with stone, brick, or block. A good masonry expert will help you figure out what’s practical, long-lasting, and aligns with your budget.
Design is also part of the package. Many top-tier masons, like Cabrera’s team, create drawings or mock-ups so clients can visualize the end result before any work begins. This collaborative process helps homeowners make confident decisions and ensures the final product fits their lifestyle.
Make Your Forever Home Work for You
In a time when moving is more complicated, and more costly than ever, it makes sense to invest in the home you have. Masonry projects deliver protection, elegance, and lasting value with minimal upkeep. Whether it’s a sturdy new patio or revitalized stone siding, these updates don’t just preserve your house—they make it feel like home for the long haul.
Looking to get started?
Explore masonry professionals like LJIA Masonry and other certified experts, all backed by a $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee, on TrustDALE.com.
