It has to be said. Most homeowners totally underestimate the difference the right exterior upgrades can make. And at Smucker Exteriors, we think that’s a shame. Here’s why.
Because old siding, cracked walkways, and splintering porches mean you’re missing out on making your home not only more beautiful, but also more valuable. That being said, there is some good news.
Giving your home a serious boost in curb appeal—while making a healthy ROI—doesn’t require gutting your current exterior. In fact, with the right stone masonry or stone veneer exterior, you can completely transform the look, feel, and value of your home without breaking the bank…
And with more stylish, durable, and affordable modern materials than you can shake a stick at, you’re sure to find the perfect way to invest in your home’s exterior in 2025. Here are a few of our favorite examples (and why they might become favorites of yours as well).
1. Stone Veneer Exteriors
For a budget-friendly way to upgrade the look of your home, stone veneer siding is hard to beat. (Pun intended.)
This siding material is manufactured to replicate the look of natural stone. Most often, it’s created using colored concrete, and not only do stone veneer exteriors look amazing, they’re also one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make—recouping an incredible 153% of the upfront costs. And that’s not all.
Here are a few more benefits of stone veneer exteriors:
- Mimics the visual impact of natural stone
- Prices from ⅓ to ½ the cost of stone construction
- Lighter weight than stone (and therefore easier to work with)
- Wide range of colors and textures are available
- No major structural work required to install
2. Custom Stone Patios
If you want to transform your backyard into the local hangout spot, custom stone patios are the way to go.
Durable materials like flagstone, slate, or limestone add character and function to your outdoor space. And unlike wooden decks, stone masonry is able to stand up to Pennsylvania’s varied seasons for decades without wear and tear.
So whether you’re hoping for a summer cookout spot or a peaceful nook to sip coffee in the morning, there are plenty of reasons to love stone patios.
- Materials can last 25-50 years
- Stone patios often make a 100% ROI on resale
- Loads of shapes, colors, and patterns to choose from
- Turns your backyard into functional extension of the home
3. Outdoor Fireplaces & Stone Kitchens
Outdoor fireplaces and kitchens are exploding in popularity across southeastern Pennsylvania—and for good reason.
Combined with stone masonry, these modern amenities not only extend the functional living space of your home, but look remarkable as well. Plus, stone offers additional fire resistance (a big plus for cooking), style, and durability—all major selling points when choosing materials for your outdoor living area.
- Outdoor kitchens increase useable home living space
- Stone kitchens are fire resistant and highly durable
- Adds a luxury feel and significant boost in resale value (55-200% ROI)
4. Stone Walkways, Garden Paths, & Entryways
Never underestimate the charm of a beautifully laid garden path. And for that matter, a natural stone entryway will forever be the perfect way to welcome family and friends to your home.
In other words, stone pathways are the perfect upgrade for homeowners wanting a boost in curb appeal, resale value, and charm. And materials like Pennsylvania bluestone, flagstone, or slate provide an elegant, stately feel that never goes out of style.
- Simple and effective landscape design enhancer
- Increases functionality and accessibility through the yard
- Slate pathways can last several hundred years
- Pavers of all types recoup as much as 50-75% of total cost
5. Retaining Walls
If you have a sloped yard (or perhaps dream of a terraced garden), retaining walls are a necessity—so why not take the opportunity to build something that’s both structurally sound and beautiful?
Granite, limestone, and sandstone all make excellent choices for building retaining walls that prevent soil erosion, define flowerbeds, and add major visual appeal to your yard. So if you’ve got to do it, do it right.
- Prevent drainage issues and soil erosion
- Stone adds a structured, finished look to your landscaping
- Walls will last for decades with very little maintenance
Why More Pennsylvania Homeowners Are Investing in Stone
While stone masonry and stone veneer exteriors are stunning to look at, these exterior upgrades aren’t just for show. In fact, stone and manufactured stone accents are one of the smartest, most durable, and profitable additions you can make to your home.
While each masonry renovation will bring its own charm and function, all stone and manufactured stone projects carry the following benefits.
- Low Maintenance: Stone requires very little upkeep—especially in comparison to wood, vinyl, or composites.
- Longevity: Quality stone masonry can easily last 50+ years without serious wear.
- Increased Home Value: Stone masonry projects often recoup their total cost or more upon resale—making these upgrades a favorite among PA homeowners.
- Timeless Appeal: Stone never goes out of style. Period. How many other materials or color schemes can say the same?
Ready to Upgrade Your Home’s Exterior?
When it comes to exterior upgrades, stone is and will remain a classic choice. Its durability, charm, and well-deserved boost in curb appeal is unparalleled. And with so many manufactured stone and paving products available, you can create a space that’s unique and lasts for decades to come.
So if you’re thinking a stone veneer exterior or stone masonry project may be in your home’s future, reach out to Smucker Exteriors. Our crews have been serving Pennsylvania homeowners for over 20 years—and we’re still passionate about exceeding our customers’ expectations to this very day.
So give us a call. Because Smucker Exteriors knows how important your home is. It needs to be safe, comfortable, and a place you can be proud of. And sometimes, that means upgrading your home’s exterior with one of the best materials available:
Manufactured and natural stone.
Don’t wait. Reach out today for a free quote and consultation.
