What That Star on a House Actually Signifies

If you’ve ever walked through older neighborhoods, you may have noticed a curious feature on the exterior of some homes: a metal star affixed to the brick or siding. It can be large or small, decorative or plain, but it often makes you wonder—what does it actually mean?

While it may look like a quirky decoration, that star often has a practical and historical purpose.

1. A Structural Reinforcement

The most common reason for a star on a house is structural. These stars are actually the visible ends of anchor bolts or tie rods that run through the home’s frame to the opposite wall.

Why does this matter? Over time, homes can shift or walls can bow outward. The tie rods, anchored with the star-shaped plates, help stabilize the structure and prevent major damage.

In older homes, especially those built in the 18th and 19th centuries, stars were a simple, visible way to keep a house standing strong.

What That Star on a House Actually Signifies