What Is Stone Veneer?
A veneer is a thin piece of decorative material that covers something else. Different kinds of veneers can be used in building exteriors, kitchen cabinets, and even your teeth!
Stone veneer is also sometimes referred to as stone siding or stone cladding. It is essentially a thin layer of cut stone or stone-like material that’s attached to a structure for decoration and protection. The pieces are cut thin from real stone so that you get a truly natural appearance without the weight of full-bed rock. Since they are cut thin they aren’t intended to be weight-bearing. Stone cladding is strictly for decorative purposes and for protection against weather and wear.
What are the different types of stone veneer?
Exactly what is stone veneer made of? There are generally three types of stone veneer: faux stone veneer, natural thin stone veneer, and full bed veneer. Each type is made from something different or it has a different thickness.
- Faux stone is also called manufactured stone because it’s man-made to look like real stone. It’s typically a combination of cement, natural minerals, and pigment. This type of manufactured faux stone can be extremely durable and beautiful. They are convincing duplicates, nearly identical to the real thing. However, depending on the manufacturer, sometimes products that are called faux stone are actually a type of durable synthetic polymer, resulting in ultralight veneers. Care should be taken in researching specific products.
- Natural thin stone veneer is a real stone that comes from mountains, riverbeds, and stone quarries. It’s cut into one-inch depths and sometimes shaped for a look that’s a bit more polished than raw stone, but still has that elegant and rustic beauty.
- Full bed veneer is the same as natural thin stone veneer, except it’s cut thicker. It’s usually between three and five inches thick.
What are the benefits of using stone veneers?
People love the look of natural elements in homebuilding. Whether it’s stone veneer siding, natural wood siding, a cozy wood deck, or an elegant stone patio, people love the earthy elegance offered by organic rock. If it’s real rock siding you want, but the price, weight, and installation are problematic, then this may be a great option for you.
Cost
Compared to building with real stone blocks, opting for natural veneers is more affordable. And while they can be more expensive as an initial purchase, their durability and the long-term price value they add to a home or property makes them a good investment.
Lightweight
Not only are the stones themselves cheaper, but you don’t have to worry about structural reinforcements as you do with whole stones. Veneers aren’t as bulky, so you can add them to existing walls or fireplaces without worrying about the structure. They’re also easier to handle, transport, and install than traditional stone masonry. You still need to install a metal lath and a layer of mortar to install the veneers, but it’s a simpler process.
Durable and Long-lasting
Stone veneers are amazingly durable, fire-resistant, eco-friendly, and recyclable. Additionally, they increase the value of a home and are nearly maintenance-free.