When it comes to selling a home, the exterior condition of the house can have a huge impact on buyer appeal. The problem with today’s market is that there is so much competition amongst sellers, leaving the average buyer with more than his fair share of similar houses from which to choose. One way to truly set your home apart from the rest is to give it certain distinctive qualities that other houses in your area cannot match. Stonework and masonry can play a valuable role in achieving this goal.
What is stonework and masonry?
Stonework and masonry, also known as stone masonry, is a form of construction that involves arranging individual stones to create some form of structure. Typical stone masonry services include outdoor projects such as landscaping, walkways, facades, and patios. A mason can tackle everything from a simple stairway to an elaborate backyard koi pond. However, stone masonry services are not limited to the exterior of the home. Ever see an indoor fireplace surrounded by gorgeous stone? Chances are, you were looking at the work of a mason. Many stone masonry projects involve custom creations. So if your goal is to fashion a distinctive look that is exclusive to your home, then stone masonry is a good way to go.
Masonry requires advanced training and skill, which is why masonry services can be quite expensive. While some forms of stone masonry are decorative in nature, a mason can also be brought in to deal with items such as walkway and sidewalk repairs. If you’re looking to hire a mason, then make sure to check that the individual in question is licensed and insured before you spent a significant amount of money on stonework or repair services.
Who needs stonework and masonry?
Stonework and masonry is a great way to add value and visual appeal to a home. So any homeowner planning to sell in the near future should consider having some stonework done. Additionally, anyone with a patio, sidewalk, or walkway needing repair should contact a mason in order to get the problem fixed.
Benefits of stonework and masonry
Stonework and masonry can add to the value of any home by making it more visually appealing. When it comes to selling your house, you get one chance to make a first impression on buyers. A designer walkway can instantly improve your home’s curb appeal, and a crafted stone patio can be an attractive addition to a home’s outdoor living space. Since stone masonry often involves custom designs with spectacular stones, it can add an element of uniqueness to the home that other houses in the area won’t be able to match. In a tough housing market, the right stonework can really help a home sell.
Downside of stonework and masonry
The major downside to stonework and masonry is the cost involved. Stone masonry is a craft that involves extensive training coupled with pricey materials, and therefore, masonry services do not come cheap. Unless a specific repair is in order, masonry is typically considered a luxury, not a necessity. While the presence of magnificent stone will certainly improve the appearance of your home, your money might be better spent on other types of home improvement. Most buyers, for example, would rather see an upgraded kitchen than a custom-designed stone patio. If your purpose for hiring a mason is purely decorative, then consider the other areas of your home that might need enhancement and put your money into something that is more likely to give you a higher return on your investment.
Also, be aware that an experienced mason will often come equipped with an extensive photo gallery of gorgeous creations for you to review as a reference for your own project. Before you fall in love with a particular style or design, make sure that you and your mason are on the same page as far as funding goes. The cost of stonework can vary significantly from a couple of thousand to a couple of hundred thousand dollars. So try to get a sense of what your budget can buy before you start building that designer backyard in your head.
The bottom line
If you’ve got enough room in your budget to add stonework to your property, then it can certainly be quite the worthwhile investment. With the help of a licensed mason in your area, you could be on your way to a home that will surely stand out above the rest.
