Pros and Cons of Stone Veneer: Is It the Right Choice for Your Arizona Home?

If you have ever browsed at the timeless elegance of a stone fireplace, wall or entryway, you may have considered adding stone to your home. However, natural stone is not only expensive and heavy, it is very difficult to install correctly. That’s where stone veneer comes in, a clever alternative that delivers much of the look and feel of natural stone without all the hassle.

We get asked a lot if stone veneer is a wise choice for a home. Stone veneer has both strengths and weaknesses so let’s take a look and decide if it is the right option for you. Read on to learn more.

Pros of Stone Veneer

Stone veneer unlike real stone which can weigh several hundreds of pounds per square foot is far more lightweight. Hence it is easier to install. In fact it can often be applied to existing walls reducing the need for structural work and installation time.

As we indicated above, natural stone can be a huge investment in the product and installation. Stone veneer gives a similar appearance for a far smaller cost. According to Forbes Home, stone veneer costs between $6 and $13 per square foot installed, compared to natural stone, which can easily run $20 to $30 per square foot.

Whether it is a modern or rustic look you are after, stone veneer fits the bill, available in many different styles and colors. this versatility makes it great to match with any themed design layouts.

Stone veneer of good quality handles the elements very well indeed. Especially against UV rays and heat in our Arizona climate. Unlike natural stone, no sealing or polishing is required. Maintenance usually involves just a mild detergent and cleaning with water.

Whether you’re adding veneer to an exterior façade or an indoor feature wall, it gives your home a custom, high-end appearance that can increase resale value. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report notes that manufactured stone veneer projects consistently rank among the top for return on investment.

Cons of Stone Veneer

While stone veneer looks awesome you must always remember it is not the strength of real stone. It is not for load bearing purposes. So its best use is for fireplaces, siding and areas you want to accent, not for the retaining of walls or any projects requiring structural support.

One of the biggest drawbacks of stone veneer is the potential for moisture damage. If it’s not installed with proper drainage and flashing, water can seep behind the veneer and cause rot, mold, or structural damage over time. That’s why hiring a trusted installer, like our team at DBS Inc is crucial.

Stone veneer although very durable does not mean that it is not susceptible to the extremes of heat and occasional cold snaps we experience in Arizona. Natural expansion or incorrect installation can cause cracking in mortar or veneer joints.

Natural stone lasts for centuries. Stone veneer depending on its composition can last 25-75 years.

While veneer looks very convincing from just a few feet away, the difference is notable to someone well versed in the subject. Natural stone is unique and can never be fully replicated.

Let’s Get Stoned!

Well, in a way! Stone veneer is a super option if you want the beauty of stone without the cost, installation and weight that natural stone represents. It is budget-friendly, versatile and lightweight. However, it is not perfect and if not properly installed can lead to a shorter lifespan and moisture issues. At the end of the day, the right choice comes down to your goals, budget, and style preferences. If you’re considering a stone veneer project, DBS Inc. can help guide you to the best solution and ensure it’s installed properly for long-lasting results.

 

 

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