Written by webtechs

Is Manufactured Stone Environmentally Friendly?

Diversified Builder Supply, Inc. can help! Call us today at 480-961-3780 for more for a free stone veneer quote.  We supply only the highest quality stone veneer products that will compliment your property with elegance and hardiness.

Manufactured Stone

Manufactured stone is rapidly becoming the top choice for many home design or redesign projects. It is much lighter in weight, meaning that it’s a lot easier to install. When installing manufactured stone there is no need for footings or fasteners, saving time, and most important of all money. Because it is manufactured, the stone creates less waste than stone cut from a quarry. The individual pieces are specially designed to fit within one another, meaning that no scraps are wasted because they don’t fit together. Because of this, these wall coverings have a more constant color and shape and provide a more consistent look. In most cases, they can be totally customized to display the pristine color and nature of your project.

One of the biggest drawbacks to using manufactured stone is that they’re not long lasting like natural stone but can last elegantly up to 50 years. If chipping or cracking develops, it may be apparent that they are synthetic because the material is not constant all the way through. Do some homework and find a manufactured stone company that is reputable and supplies a warranty for their product. Manufactured stone is the right choice if you are on a tight budget. Depending on the project you are thinking of, both of them offers a good deal of customization opportunities. Manufactured stone surely has more options, but natural stone is not exactly a one size fits all, either.

Environmental Benefits:

  1. Resource Efficiency: Manufactured stone typically requires fewer natural resources than natural stone. The production process often utilizes aggregates, cement, and pigments to create a stone-like appearance, reducing the need for large quantities of quarried stone.
  2. Reduced Quarrying: By reducing the demand for quarried stone, the use of manufactured stone can help conserve natural landscapes and reduce the environmental impact of quarrying operations, which can be disruptive to local ecosystems.
  3. Lightweight: Manufactured stone is lighter than natural stone, which can reduce the energy and emissions associated with transportation. Less energy is needed to transport and install the product.
  4. Versatile Design: The ability to mimic a wide range of stone types and styles means that homeowners and builders can achieve the desired aesthetic without relying on specific, often rare, types of natural stone.

Environmental Considerations:

  1. Energy Consumption: The production of manufactured stone involves the use of energy, particularly for curing and drying processes. While it may be more energy-efficient than quarrying and cutting natural stone, the environmental impact still depends on the energy source used during production.
  2. Chemicals and Binders: Some manufactured stone products may contain chemicals and binders, such as cement and synthetic resins, which can have environmental implications. These materials may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during production and may not be biodegradable.
  3. End-of-Life Disposal: Like natural stone, manufactured stone has a long lifespan, but it’s important to consider its end-of-life disposal. Recycling options for manufactured stone can be limited, and it may end up in landfills.

Installation and Maintenance:

The installation and maintenance practices for manufactured stone can also impact its environmental friendliness:

  1. Efficient Installation: Proper installation by skilled professionals can minimize waste and the need for replacements, extending the life of the product.
  2. Low Maintenance: Manufactured stone is often designed to be low-maintenance, reducing the need for ongoing treatments or cleaning, which can have environmental and health impacts.
  3. Recycling and Reuse: Some manufacturers and contractors offer recycling or take-back programs for old or damaged manufactured stone products.

In summary, manufactured stone can offer environmental benefits over natural stone in terms of resource efficiency, reduced quarrying, and versatility. However, its overall environmental friendliness also depends on factors such as the specific materials used, the energy source during production, the disposal method, and installation and maintenance practices. As with any building material, making environmentally responsible choices involves considering the entire life cycle of the product and the associated environmental impacts.

Phoenix Stone Veneer Supply & Installation

Diversified Builder Supply, Inc. is a premier supplier and installer of both natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. For more information about our full range of stone veneers we carry please call and request more information at 480-961-3780.

Written by webtechs

Natural Stone vs Manufactured Stone

Are you searching “natural stone vs manufactured stone near me”? If so, Diversified Builder Supply, Inc. can help! Call us today at 480-961-3780 for more for a free stone veneer quote.  We supply only the highest quality stone veneer products that will compliment your property with elegance and hardiness.

Natural Stone vs Manufactured Stone

  • Between the two, manufactured stone and natural stone veneers are cost comparable
  • The cost of installation is a little lower for manufactured stone, due to its repeated process of installation
  • Manufactured stone usually will have more colors available because they can be dyed inside of the mold
  • Both manufactured stone and natural stone are widely available
  • Real stone calls for a skilled mason, but looks a lot better when trimmed

Natural Stone

In the past, natural stone was the go to choice for stacked wall coverings. A lot of people love it because of its natural color scheme. Each piece is will uncover a special distinctiveness that cannot be duplicated by man. An additional benefit of choosing natural stone is how durable it is. The wall covering will last many, many years, even tolerating direct and relentless sunlight. Natural stone will not fade, chip, or peel as a result of a harsh environment. Even if the stone sustains impact damage, it will retain its beauty because of it’s through and through consistency.

One of the biggest disadvantages of deciding on natural stacked wall coverings is its cost. Getting it from the ground is demanding and difficult, pushing up the price. It’s also a lot heavier and to work with, meaning that installation is going to be more challenging as well. The choice of color can also be restricted as well considering most natural stone is locally quarried due to the cost of transporting it. Natural stone is long lasting and even if chipped can still look beautiful.

Manufactured Stone

Manufactured stone is rapidly becoming the top choice for many home design or redesign projects. It is much lighter in weight, meaning that it’s a lot easier to install. When installing manufactured stone there is no need for footings or fasteners, saving time, and most important of all money. Because it is manufactured, the stone creates less waste than stone cut from a quarry. The individual pieces are specially designed to fit within one another, meaning that no scraps are wasted because they don’t fit together. Because of this, these wall coverings have a more constant color and shape and provide a more consistent look. In most cases, they can be totally customized to display the pristine color and nature of your project.

One of the biggest drawbacks to using manufactured stone is that they’re not long lasting like natural stone but can last elegantly up to 50 years. If chipping or cracking develops, it may be apparent that they are synthetic because the material is not constant all the way through. Do some homework and find a manufactured stone company that is reputable and supplies a warranty for their product. Manufactured stone is the right choice if you are on a tight budget. Depending on the project you are thinking of, both of them offers a good deal of customization opportunities. Manufactured stone surely has more options, but natural stone is not exactly a one size fits all, either.

Phoenix Stone Veneer Supply & Installation

Diversified Builder Supply, Inc. is a premier supplier and installer of both natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. For more information about our full range of stone veneers we carry please call and request more information at 480-961-3780.

Written by webtechs

Different Types of Stone Veneers

Types of Stone Veneer

Designing with different types of stone veneers area perfect way to add curb appeal and value to any residential or commercial building! With a variety of different types of stone veneer available nowadays, DBS, Inc. is here to help you find the perfect option that lines up with your aesthetic design and project needs.

Different Types of Stone Veneers

Not all brands or types of stone veneers are the same, they can be produced uniquely and have their benefits over one another. Keep reading as this post breaks down and unveils exceptional qualities for the 3 primary different types of stone veneers most used presently – Natural Stone Veneer, Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV), and Stone Siding.

Natural Stone Veneer

Natural Stone has been utilized as a building product for centuries. An emblem of strength and durability natural stone is available in two forms, traditional full-bed, and natural thin stone veneer. Full bed is a full-thickness stone that is about four inches thick, whereas natural thin stone veneer averages one to two inches in thickness and provides the same look and feel as conventional full bed veneer. Natural thin stone veneer has become increasingly favorable over the past ten years as it provides greater design adaptability and a wider range of application opportunities. Natural thin stone veneer usually installs much quicker than full bed veneer, increasing project productivity of the experienced masons and installers handling the veneer. This type of veneer has quickly become one of the most recognized natural thin stone veneers in the industry today.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Manufactured Stone Veneers (MSV), also referred to as faux stone, is a man-made veneer that is usually made of aggregate materials and concrete that has been compressed into molds. MSV can be molded into just about any shape and size and in any finished color, making it a highly appealing and versatile finishing material. It comes in a wide range of styles and colors ranging from conventional and rustic to contemporary and trendsetting and is shown to be a reliable and budget friendly veneer option. This veneer is lightweight, is easy to cut and handle, and can be installed in a multitude of locations as it can be adhered to just about any structurally sound surface.

Stone Siding

Imagine reducing the time it takes to install stone veneer, enabling you more time to concentrate on other areas of your project! That’s precisely what Stone Siding does, the beauty of stone with the simpleness of siding. Fitting together like pieces of a puzzle, these panelized stone siding products offers the authentic appeal of conventional masonry with a current installation method. Made of lightweight aggregated materials, this high-quality fastening system installs with or nails screws and can be easily accomplished by a siding contractor, or a skilled DIY homeowner.

These veneers are lightweight meaning additional engineering or structural support is not a requirement. Each of these panel features a G-90 galvanized nail strip in addition to a built-in rain screen allowing for water drainage and required wall ventilation. These veneers are perfect for any interior or exterior project and can be installed throughout the year as there are no seasonal concerns unlike a lot of masonry products.

Diversified Builder Supply In Phoenix & Chandler, Arizona

If you live in Chandler, or surrounding cities in the Phoenix, Arizona area and want a gas fireplace installed; Diversified Builder, Inc. can help! We offer indoor and outdoor fireplace installation in Phoenix & Chandler, Arizona. We also install commercial and residential brick veneers. Contact us Today!

Written by webtechs

Natural Stone Phoenix

Whether they are interior or exterior flagstone walkways are beautiful to look at, practical and surprisingly easy to maintain. Read on to learn more.

Indoor Flagstone Walkways

Indoor flagstone walkways are remarkably easy to clean and maintain. The yare usually friendly to people who are even in bare feet because they normally have sealant and wax on the surface. providing this is the case all you will need to do is wet the flagstone walkway down and then take some all-purpose cleaning agent as well as some warm water and mop it down. Should you encounter scuffmarks, some light scrubbing combined with agents like Comet or Bon Ami will take care of it. Following the cleaning process if you observe there is a slight filmy residue a fifty-fifty mixture of water and vinegar, used in combination with a wet rag should take care of everything.

Outdoor Flagstone Walkways

Not often waxed or sealed outdoor flagstone walkways can become victims of erosion, dust and dirt. Regular mud and dirt stains need to be treated with some form of pressure washer and you can use the nozzle to spray the affected area until the dirt has washed off. In situations where the stain is more stubborn, dishwashing cleaner or dish soap can be utilized as well. Keep the spray on a lighter setting so you do not contribute further to any erosion of the surface. In cases where there are natural stains caused by tress, leaves or other fauna, organic stain removers can be utilized to great effect., but remember they will not work on stains that are non-organic. You may also wish to test the organic cleaner or a small piece of the outdoor flagstone to ensure discoloration does not occur.

If none of these methods have been successful, it may be time for something different and in this case we can commend muriatic acid. It is important to realize this is not a cleaning agent in any sense of the word but it does eat away anything it is applied too. This means it will remove the top layer of your flagstone and the portions of the flagstone that are stained will be eaten away or dissolved by the acid. Obviously you need to protect yourself when using this. So wear heavy clothes as well as goggles and obviously, gloves. Carefully read the dilution guidelines and ensure you have them completely correct. Then apply the muriatic acid to the area of the stone you want to clean. Let it sit for a few minutes while it does its job and then use a power washer or scrub it off. You need to make sure the entire area is soaked with ample enough water to fully dilute the acid. You can then finish the task by the application of masonry sealant to the stone that is now newly exposed.

Written by webtechs

Natural Stone Phoenix

Natural Stone Types

Natural stone carries with it an authenticity and customized look that cannot be beat. It is a premium building material that adds beauty and value to all of the homes and businesses it is installed in. Adding natural stone to Phoenix residences and businesses creates a sense of occasion and prestige. Some types of stone even carry with them natural bacteria control abilities that help keep visitors and residents healthier. Solid counter tops, and natural stone veneers are hugely popular building materials for the interior and exterior of homes. If you are remodeling or building a new home consider these types of stone to get the customized and luxurious look that flatters your house and makes it a home.

Slate

Slate has been used for thousands of years due to its natural resistance to the seasonal freeze and thaw cycles. It is a dense metamorphic stone that comes in red, green, gray and even purple tones when it is quarried in the United States. Slate that is procured domestically features mottled colors that have multiple shades and a nicely weathered appearance. These elements add warmth to room in your home. Slate that is imported from Africa, South America, and Asia tends to carry a more gold, copper, or orange type mottling. Slate is a hugely popular natural stone type for the roof, walls, and interior of the home. It is used for showers, buildings exteriors, counter tops, roofs, and even fireplaces.

Limestone

Limestone typically carries wonderfully natural colors that don’t fade over time. The stone naturally carries a patina from the weathering it acquired in nature. Limestone’s adaptability to be carved and adapted makes it a favorite for builders. It is easy to create custom shapes and designs because of the ease the stone is carved and shaped with. It is used both for exterior, interior, and even landscaping applications and its popularity is evident due to its use at cathedrals, universities, and courthouses. It weathers well and stays attractive for many generations.

Travertine

Travertine is created in natural hot springs and is a sedimentary rock. The flowery patters and cream colored elements of the stone are caused by the various types of sediment being deposited in these hot springs and create very diverse patterns. Travertine is used for fireplace and flooring and can be installed with or without grout. Grout does increase the durability of the stone, but it is not necessary. It is used frequently for fireplace surrounds, flooring, and even outdoors for garden walkways.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a dense, hard, and chemical and abrasion resistant, quartzite is a type of metamorphic stone where quartz grains initially belonging to sandstone; have re-crystallized. Quartzite is becoming well known as a dimension stone in the construction industry. The use of quartzite ads a pristine decorative look in a building and the use of it in construction is growing rapidly. Quartzite slabs are used to cover walls, kitchen and bath countertops, used as roofing tiles, as flooring, and staircases to name just a few of their uses.

Onyx

Onyx is a sedimentary stone produced in caves from microcrystalline quartz, turning into stalactites and stalagmites. It is more delicate than other types of stone, susceptible to both chemical and abrasive degradation, and therefore more acceptable for lower traffic areas or for vertical uses. Onyx is appreciated for its translucency; its breath taking beauty can be intensified by backlight. With colors ranging from honey colored neutrals, to white, all the way to stunning blues, reds, golds, and greens.

Soapstone

Soapstone is another type of metamorphic stone. It is largely made up of the mineral talc and is very abundant in magnesium. It is created by dynamo thermal metamorphism and metasomatism. Soapstone is chemically inert, and non-reactive to harsh chemicals, extremely dense, even denser than granite. It will not stain, and liquid can’t throughout its surface. Soapstone scratches easily and is soft; the scratches will create a patina on its surface over time which should be normal after everyday wear and tear.

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic stone, which is a stone that has been chemically and physically transformed over time due to intense pressure and heat. Marble begins its life as limestone. Under extreme heat and pressure caused by magma or tectonic plates, this limestone begins to re-crystallized itself, changing the characteristics of the rock and causing the calcite crystals to grow and interlink themselves. Marble can be found in many places around the world, from Vermont to Macedonia, but the most south after varieties come from Greece and Italy, where it is often found in its purest color.

Quartz

Quartz is the second most plentiful mineral in the Earth’s continental crust, after feldspar. Quartz makes a perfect stone for bathroom and kitchen countertops. Its non porous surface and unique blend of beauty and easy maintenance makes quartz an excellent match for any type of lifestyle. Quartz is scratch resistant and has a natural anti-microbial protection against mold.

Serpentine

A metamorphic rock made up mostly of magnesium silicate. Commonly green in color. Serpentine is thought to be formed really deep undersea by magma emerging through cracks on the ocean floor at temperatures up to around 930°F. Serpentine is very dense, scratch and chemical resistant though they are commonly classified as a softer granite.

Jade/ Jadeite

Two distinct gem materials can correctly be called jade. Jadeite is one, and the other one is nephrite. Both are actually metamorphic rocks made up of tiny interlinking mineral crystals. These interlinking crystals make both gems exceptionally strong. Jadeite comes in a wide range of engaging colors including shades of green, yellow, green, white, gray, black, brown, reddish oranges, and lavender. The coloration is often streaked or mottled, giving jadeite gemstones an interesting visual texture that carvers can use to create imaginative and intriguing effects.

Natural Stone For Sale In Phoenix

Every home and business in Phoenix can benefit from a more natural, warmer, and richer look. Natural stone helps create a beautifully customized and timeless look in our living spaces. Diversified Builder Supply, Inc. can help you choose the best natural stone for your home whether it be for interior or exterior applications. Let us help you match your architectural styles and color pallet with the perfect additions of natural stone to your home or business.