The top masonry upgrades to boost curb appeal in the Quad Cities

The top masonry upgrades to boost curb appeal in the Quad Cities

Byramasonry

When it comes to improving your home’s exterior, few materials make a statement like brick, stone, or block. Masonry adds timeless character, durability, and elegance that paint, vinyl, or siding simply can’t match. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or just want to create a more welcoming entrance, upgrading your property with professional masonry work is one of the most effective ways to boost curb appeal and long-term value.

At R.A. Masonry, we specialize in brick, block, and stone construction, restoration, and waterproofing throughout Moline, IL, and the surrounding Quad Cities. Our skilled masons help homeowners transform ordinary exteriors into lasting works of craftsmanship that complement the architectural style of their homes.

Here are some of the top masonry upgrades that can instantly elevate the look and feel of your property.

Why masonry makes the best first impression

Your home’s exterior is the first thing people see, and first impressions matter. Masonry offers both beauty and practicality, combining natural textures and lasting strength. Unlike many modern materials, brick and stone improve with age, gaining character and richness over time rather than fading or peeling.

The benefits of investing in masonry include:

      • Durability: Brick and stone withstand the Midwest’s harsh freeze-thaw cycles better than wood or vinyl.
      • Low maintenance: Masonry requires little upkeep compared to painted surfaces.
      • Timeless style: Quality masonry never goes out of fashion and enhances any architectural design.
      • Increased value: Homes with brick or stone exteriors often sell faster and command higher prices.
      • Energy efficiency: Masonry’s thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures, improving comfort and efficiency.

For homeowners across the Quad Cities, masonry is both a visual upgrade and a smart financial investment that pays dividends in longevity and style.

1. A new brick or stone entryway

Your front entrance sets the tone for your entire home. Replacing dated concrete steps or a plain porch with brick or stone masonry instantly makes the entry feel more welcoming and refined.

Popular entryway upgrades include:

      • Stone or brick steps with matching sidewalls
      • Custom porch columns or masonry pillars
      • Brick or natural stone walkways leading to the front door
      • Masonry stoops with integrated planters or lighting

At R.A. Masonry, we use high-quality materials sourced from trusted regional suppliers, ensuring your new entryway complements your home’s existing design while standing up to local weather conditions. A well-crafted masonry entry creates both beauty and lasting function for years to come.

2. Stone or brick veneer accents

If your home’s siding looks flat or outdated, consider adding a stone or brick veneer. Veneers provide the texture and richness of full masonry walls without the added structural weight or cost.

Veneer applications are ideal for:

      • Front facades and accent walls
      • Chimney exteriors
      • Garage surrounds or lower wall bands
      • Porch columns and bases

Brick and stone veneers come in a wide range of styles, from sleek modern lines to rustic fieldstone, making it easy to match your home’s aesthetic. Professionally installed veneers by R.A. Masonry add instant visual depth and architectural interest, turning a plain exterior into something memorable.

3. Custom retaining walls and garden borders

A well-built retaining wall does more than hold soil; it defines outdoor spaces and adds character to your landscape. Masonry retaining walls can transform sloped or uneven yards into usable, attractive areas that enhance your property’s overall design.

Common uses for retaining walls include:

      • Creating elevated garden beds or seating areas
      • Supporting driveways or walkways on sloped properties
      • Framing patios or outdoor living spaces
      • Preventing soil erosion in landscaped areas

Retaining walls can be built from natural stone, decorative block, or brick to complement your home’s existing style. Our team at R.A. Masonry designs and constructs retaining walls that are as strong as they are beautiful, providing long-term stability and curb appeal.

4. Driveway or walkway edging

Even small masonry details can make a big difference. Adding brick or stone edging to your driveway or garden walkways creates a clean, polished look that enhances your landscape design.

Benefits of masonry edging include:

      • A clear visual boundary between lawn and pavement
      • Protection against erosion and grass overgrowth
      • A consistent design theme that ties your yard together

Brick and stone edging is durable enough to withstand harsh weather and lawn maintenance tools, ensuring your investment stays sharp and attractive for years.

5. Upgraded mailbox or pillar features

A custom masonry mailbox or pillar is one of the simplest ways to add elegance and personality to your property. It’s a small project with major visual impact.

Homeowners often choose:

      • Brick or stone mailboxes with decorative caps
      • Matching gate pillars or light posts
      • Address engravings or inset metal plaques

These features can be designed to match your home’s exterior materials for a cohesive, upscale look. At R.A. Masonry, we often pair new pillars or mailboxes with entryway improvements to create a unified, eye-catching front landscape.

6. Chimney restoration or rebuilding

A deteriorating chimney can quickly detract from your home’s appearance, and even become a safety hazard. Cracked mortar joints, loose bricks, and leaning structures not only look unsightly but also allow water to enter your home.

Signs your chimney may need repair include:

      • Missing or crumbling mortar
      • Leaning or misaligned structure
      • White staining (efflorescence) on brick surfaces
      • Water leaks inside the home near the fireplace

At R.A. Masonry, we specialize in chimney repairs, repointing, and complete rebuilds, restoring both structural integrity and curb appeal. Whether your home is a mid-century brick ranch or a historic stone property, our licensed masons can match existing materials for seamless restoration.

7. Masonry planters and outdoor features

Adding stone or brick planters, seating walls, or accent columns can make your yard look more intentional and refined. These small details frame outdoor spaces beautifully and allow you to showcase seasonal plants and landscaping.

Masonry outdoor enhancements can include:

      • Built-in garden planters with matching retaining walls
      • Low seating walls surrounding patios or firepits
      • Masonry steps connecting different elevation levels
      • Decorative columns, arches, or small garden walls

These custom features elevate your outdoor living area, turning an average yard into an elegant, inviting space perfect for entertaining.

8. Masonry cleaning, repointing, and restoration

Not all curb appeal upgrades require new construction. Sometimes, your existing brick or stone just needs professional attention to look its best again. Over time, weather exposure, pollution, and moisture can cause discoloration or mortar deterioration.

Restoration services from R.A. Masonry include:

      • Cleaning: Safe, non-abrasive methods that remove stains and organic growth without damaging brick.
      • Repointing (tuckpointing): Replacing deteriorated mortar joints to strengthen and restore masonry surfaces.
      • Sealing and waterproofing: Applying breathable coatings that protect against moisture intrusion.

These services can dramatically improve your home’s appearance without altering its historic or architectural character. Our team ensures every repair blends perfectly with your existing materials for a cohesive finish.

9. Outdoor fireplaces or fire features

For homeowners who enjoy spending evenings outside, an outdoor fireplace or fire pit made from brick or stone adds warmth, charm, and luxury. Beyond boosting curb appeal, these installations create functional outdoor spaces for relaxation or entertaining.

Popular design options include:

      • Freestanding stone fire pits surrounded by seating walls
      • Outdoor brick fireplaces for patios or decks
      • Integrated fire features paired with outdoor kitchens

Every fire feature we build at R.A. Masonry is designed for safety, durability, and seamless integration with your landscape. These upgrades not only look stunning but also increase your home’s overall value and usability.

Case example: enhancing a Rock Island home’s exterior

A homeowner in Rock Island, IL, contacted R.A. Masonry to modernize their 1950s brick home without losing its original charm. We installed a new stone veneer on the lower half of the exterior, added matching brick columns at the front porch, and built a small retaining wall to frame the landscaping.

The finished project completely transformed the home’s curb appeal. The property’s classic character was preserved, while the updated stonework added dimension and sophistication. This project demonstrates how strategic masonry enhancements can breathe new life into any home.

Why hire R.A. Masonry for your masonry upgrades

At R.A. Masonry, our reputation is built on craftsmanship, professionalism, and attention to detail. Every project, whether it’s a small entryway repair or a full facade renovation, is handled by skilled, licensed masons dedicated to exceeding expectations.

What sets us apart:

    • Licensed, insured, and locally trusted
    • Deep knowledge of Illinois climate and soil conditions
    • High-quality materials sourced from reputable suppliers
    • Transparent communication and honest pricing
    • Decades of combined masonry experience

We don’t just build with brick and stone, we build trust through reliable service and proven results.

Areas we serve

R.A. Masonry proudly serves homeowners throughout the Quad Cities, including:

    • Moline, IL
    • Rock Island, IL
    • East Moline, IL
    • Silvis, IL
    • Davenport, IA
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • Milan, IL
    • Coal Valley, IL

Our services include masonry installation, brick and stone restoration, foundation waterproofing, and chimney repair, helping homeowners enhance their properties with durable, high-quality craftsmanship.

Upgrade your curb appeal with R.A. Masonry

Transform your home’s exterior with professional masonry craftsmanship from R.A. Masonry

From retaining walls and stone veneers to chimney restoration and entryway upgrades, our team delivers lasting beauty and value for homes across the Quad Cities. Let us help you create a stronger, more stylish property that stands out for all the right reasons.

Call (309) 230-6064 or request an estimate online to schedule your consultation today. We proudly serve Moline, Rock Island, Davenport, and surrounding Illinois and Iowa communities with trusted, professional masonry services.