Exterior Home Upgrade: A Clean Stone Addition That Improves Curb Appeal and Value

See how adding stone transformed this home’s exterior—creating contrast, structure, and a more finished look without major construction.

Joseph Hajek

Project Coordinator

Hi, I’m Joseph, and I worked with this homeowner on a straightforward exterior upgrade designed to improve both appearance and long-term value.

The home was in great condition, but the siding made the exterior feel flat and lacked the contrast needed to really stand out. It didn’t quite reflect the quality of the home itself.

The goal wasn’t to remodel everything—it was to make a smart upgrade that would improve curb appeal while also adding a more durable, finished look.

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A Proven Exterior Upgrade Without a Full Remodel

Updating Vinyl Siding • Remove Vinyl and Install the Stone

Not every upgrade needs to be dramatic to be effective.By adding stone along the lower portion of the home, this project created contrast, structure, and a more grounded appearance, while keeping the existing siding intact.

✅ Remove the vinyl siding and install

✅ No substrate clean up required

✅ Completed in days, not weeks

A Simple Upgrade That Adds Structure and Contrast

A simple upgrade turned this builder-grade exterior into a clean, custom look adding depth, contrast, and a high-end finish without major construction.

Before

Exterior Home Upgrade Before

The Goal

Exterior felt flat and lacked depth
Needed more contrast and definition
Improve curb appeal without overbuilding
Maintain most existing siding
Make a smart, lasting upgrade

After

Exterior Home Upgrade After

The Solution

Add stone along the lower façade
Create contrast with siding
Introduce texture and structure
Improve overall curb appeal
Achieve a more finished, high-quality look

What Does an Exterior Home Upgrade Like This Cost?

Most homeowners are surprised how cost-effective upgrades like this can be. Projects like this typically range between $3,500–$7,500, depending on the size of the home and layout. Many homeowners choose upgrades like this to improve both curb appeal and long-term resale value.

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Project Details

Products Used: Panels
Color: Arctic Smoke
Install: Remove Vinyl and Install

Yes, GenStone can be installed over any flat surface.

Absolutely, over the past several years, the Cost vs Value report has consistently ranked adding faux stone as the #3 highest ROI home improvement project.

Arctic Smoke Color Guide

This color was chosen to create a clean, modern contrast that works across a wide range of home styles while maintaining a natural stone appearance.

Trusted by Homeowners Across the Country

Best representative I have talked to

Kenai Kenai Panel

Ellie is the best person I've talked with as a representative from a company in years. She was informative and knew what she was talking about. She answered my questions accurately and politely. She kept in touch until I got the product samples I had ordered. She did not high pressure me to buy something. She estimated the amount of stone panels I would need and gave me a good total cost. When I called back to place my order, I asked to speak with her again. I actually got her.

Ellie Peretz

Assistant Manager

Beautiful Results

Stacked Stone Kenai

We were very pleased from the ordering process to our finished project. Evan helped us determine quantities and finishing products. The product came well packed and undamaged. From start to finish we worked on this project 2 days. Not bad for 2 senior citizens. We love the way it looks and are hopeful GenStone will provide the insulation we are looking for on this exposed wall.

Evan Trevenna

Senior Project Coordinator

Wish I had more places to use Genstone

Stacked Stone Desert Sunrise

Great product it was a breeze to install and all it needed was a hand saw and the caulking gun and the supplies provided by Genstone. But I want to compliment the staff at Genstone for their assistance. Bri and Zach were very helpful. They were very quick to fix a problem with my order and I had my new order within 2 days. Thank you very much. I only wish I had more places in my townhouse to use Genstone. Thank you

Zach Erhardt

Manager

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Our Project Coordinators are here to help you plan every step—from choosing the right color to making sure your installation goes smoothly.

1-800-425-0788

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