Which Home Improvements Last the Longest?

When homeowners spend big money on improvements, they want long-lasting results.

As a real estate appraiser with 20+ years of experience, I’ve inspected and valued thousands of homes – from the newly renovated to the outdated money pits.

One thing is for sure – some upgrades hold their value for decades, while others quickly become outdated or require frequent replacement.

With so much research, effort, and money being spent on our homes, we want to reap the benefits of home improvements for as long as possible. This means making improvements that not only add value but stand the test of time.

But with so many options available and ever-evolving trends, how are we supposed to know which home improvements last the longest and continue to add value over time?   

After seeing the results firsthand, I’ve put together a list of 13 home improvements that deliver lasting benefits when it comes to value and functionality. 

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement is an excellent alternative to traditional wood or vinyl siding.

Not only does it have a longer lifespan, but it requires very little maintenance.

This type of siding is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, making it highly durable and resistant to rotting, warping, and insect damage.

It can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a viable choice for homeowners in different regions.

Fiber cement siding comes in a variety of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to customize the exterior to match their style preferences.

The best part – you won’t have to repaint it and deal with chipped paint every few years like traditional wood siding. 

Fiber cement siding may need some touch ups every 15-20 years, according to home builders, making it one of the most long-lasting siding options.

With proper installation and general maintenance, fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years.

Modernized Kitchen Layout

Kitchen remodels are always a popular home improvement project, and for good reason.

A well-designed kitchen can add significant value to your home, while also improving functionality, convenience, and everyday enjoyment.

If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, focus on modern layouts that have stood the test of time rather than trending fads.

Open-concept designs with an abundance of storage space, efficient working layout, and high-quality materials will continue to be popular and timeless for the foreseeable future..

By investing a bit of effort into a modern kitchen layout, you can enjoy the space and reap the benefits for years to come.

Once you have some foundational pieces and a highly functional space, a minor kitchen remodel with updated countertops or high-end hardware or trending accents can be easily changed out or replaced from time to time.

Adding a Master Bath

Adding or expanding a master bath is one of the most value-boosting improvements a homeowner can make.

Not only does it enhance your comfort and convenience, but it also adds to resale value with a big ROI.

A well-designed master bath with quality materials and timeless features can hold its value for decades. Features like walk-in showers, double vanities, and quality tile or stone finishes are sought-after and less likely to become outdated.

To ensure longevity, choose neutral color palettes and classic fixtures. Spa-like features such as soaking tubs and heated floors also add long-term value and luxury.

Real Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a classic choice that never goes out of style. Luxury vinyl is in for the moment – This isn’t the first time an alternative to real hardwood has “stolen its thunder” for a period of time.

Not only does hardwood flooring add warmth and beauty to a home, but it has excellent durability.

With proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last for generations, unlike other flooring options that often need replacement every 10-15 years.

Or, in my case, every 5 years because I have teenagers and dogs. 

Real hardwood also continues to add value to a home, as it’s considered a quality upgrade, and is highly sought after by prospective home buyers.

There are various types of hardwoods to choose from: Oak, maple, cherry, and walnut, each with a unique grain pattern and color.

Energy Efficient Windows

Energy-efficient windows can be good for the environment as well as the homeowner’s wallet.

Efficient windows help reduce energy consumption by keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer.

They provide better insulation, reduce outside noise, and filter harmful UV rays.

While energy-efficient windows may cost a bit more upfront, they can save homeowners money in the long run through reduced energy bills.

Plus, they maintain your home’s value and can be a great selling point for potential buyers.

A Quality Roof

Don’t scour the earth for the cheapest option the next time you need a new roof. 

A good quality roof is one of the most essential components for protecting your home from the elements.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular and budget-friendly choice. However, some average quality shingles may need replacement every 15-20 years. Higher quality architectural shingles can last 40+ years, according to Better Homes & Gardens.

Choosing highly durable materials like metal or slate can extend the lifespan of a roof further – up to 50 years or more.

Investing in a quality roof not only adds to and maintains a home’s value but also provides peace of mind for homeowners. 

Cost will vary depending on the size and materials used, but the average cost is estimated to be $15,000 to $25,000 for a mid-sized home.

New Garage Door

A new garage door may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about impactful home improvements, but this can greatly improve a home’s curb appeal without costing a fortune. 

Not only does it improve the appearance and curb appeal of a home, but it provides added convenience and security.

Older garage doors tend to be less energy-efficient. Replacing them with a newer version can also help save on energy costs.

In 2025 there’s an abundance of affordable options for sleek, modern, and efficient doors. 

*Regular maintenance of tracks, springs, and cleaning will extend the life of your garage door.

Bonus: The ROI of installing a new garage door is reported to be 100% or more!

Replacing Wood Porches & Decks With Composite 

Wooden porches and decks may give a home a charming look, but they require ongoing maintenance to prevent rotting, warping, chipped paint, and other damage from the elements.

Replacing them with composite materials can alleviate these issues and provide a longer lifespan for your outdoor living space.

Composite materials are also more eco-friendly, being constructed from recycled materials.

Upgrading HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are standard components for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home.

Outdated or inefficient HVAC systems can lead to higher energy bills, discomfort, and can have negative impact on resale value if you’re planning to sell anytime in the near future.

Upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient systems can save you money in the long run and can increase the value of the home.

Solid Surface Countertops

Kitchen renovations are one of the top home improvement projects known to increase a home’s value.

Replacing old laminate or dated tile countertops with solid surface options like granite, marble, quartz, or even concrete can give the kitchen a more luxurious and updated look.

These materials are also more durable and easier to maintain than lower quality options.

Open Up a Closed-In Layout

Many older homes have a confined layout with small, separate rooms that make the space feel cramped and outdated.

Apparently, this layout was popular at one time.. I guess when people openly expressed their desire to be separated from everyone else under the same roof. 

Although we still feel that way at times, opening up the floor plan by removing walls or creating larger doorways can create a more spacious and modern feel to the living area.

In the 50’s, segmented rooms, galley kitchens, and separate dining rooms were the norm.

However, with today’s lifestyle and trending designs, open floor plans are much more desirable. 

And this trend shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon, especially for main living areas like the kitchen and living room.

Almost every new home I come across is still incorporating an open-concept design in the main living area in some way.

What does this mean? Buyers still want it.

Update Old Plumbing and Wiring

While the cost and extent of a needed upgrade will vary depending on the size and age of the home, outdated plumbing and wiring can be a major turn off for potential buyers.

Old pipes can lead to water damage and electrical systems that are not up to code can pose safety hazards.

Upgrading these systems may not be as exciting or transformative as other upgrades, but they are essential for maintaining the integrity and value of a home.

Updated plumbing and electrical components can save you from repair nightmares later on. If you preserve these key “hidden” components, trust that you are preserving the interior spaces as well.

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Adding Insulation and Improving Energy Efficiency

Improving a home’s insulation and energy efficiency can save money on utility bills and make the space more comfortable to live in.

(This means it will be more desirable to potential buyers down the road.)

This may involve adding insulation to walls and attics, sealing air leaks, and upgrading windows and doors.

The world of insulation has seen many improvements and innovations over the last decade. For those of us who live in older and often drafty homes, good insulation and energy efficiency may not have been an affordable option.  

However, with rising energy costs and increasing environmental concerns, it’s becoming more and more important and feasible to implement these upgrades when renovating or purchasing a home.

Maintenance Items vs. Instant Value Boosting Improvements

While it may be tempting to focus on the flashy, high-end home renovations that promise a big ROI, it’s equally important to perform basic maintenance items and upgrades to your home’s infrastructure and mechanical systems.

When a home is appraised (or put up for sale), many homeowners expect a value increase that closely matches money they’ve put into home improvements.

However, this isn’t always the case.

Some of the items mentioned here, like roofs, windows, and mechanical systems, are considered “maintenance items’ by appraisers. 

What Does this Mean?

This means that while these upgrades may not necessarily add significant value to the home, they are vitally important for maintaining your home’s condition and value.

Neglecting to maintain items that virtually any home buyer will expect to be functional and useful for years to come (like a roof) can decrease your home’s value.

Potential buyers may see unaddressed maintenance items as red flags or costly repairs they’ll have to take on themselves. 

That’s not something most buyers want to deal with right after buying a home. 

So, while it may not be as exciting as a gourmet kitchen or luxury bathroom, investing in basic maintenance and quality upgrades can actually be more valuable in the long run.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re improving your existing home or purchasing a new one, it’s important to consider both instant value-boosting improvements and the maintenance items that will keep your home worth just as much, if not more, than what you paid for it. 

Flashy upgrades are always tempting, but don’t neglect the basic components and efficiency upgrades that are necessary for maintaining your home’s value.

Investing in long-lasting improvements, like those mentioned above, will not only increase your home’s value but also make sure you can enjoy it for years to come.

Tell me all about your latest improvement projects in the comments!