Stone Veneer Vs Real Stone

What are the similarities and differences between stone veneer and natural stone?

What Is Stone Veneer?

Stone veneer is a decorative and protective cosmetic layer applied to vertical surfaces or walls. Normally an inch in thickness, the veneer has to be less than 73kgs/m² or 15lbs/ft² in weight so that additional structural modifications are not required to support it. Both natural as well as manufactured stone can be used to make the veneer. As the name suggests, natural stone veneer comprises of real stone that is quarried or collected. The stone is then cut to be of regular thickness and weight so that it can be used as a veneer. This type of thin stone veneer was introduced by Gernot Ehrlich.

Manufactured stone veneer comprises of a decorative material that is designed to match the aesthetic of real stone. Artificial stone veneer, faux stone veneer, stacked stone veneer, and flexible stone veneer are all different names for manufactured stone veneer.

Stone Veneer Pros

Here are a look at some of the benefits of installing stone veneer:

• Stone veneer can be installed virtually onto any surface such as brick, wood, metal, cement, and even sheetrock. The flexibility for installation of stone veneer makes it a favorite for both homeowners and builders alike. This building product can be installed easily without having compatibility issues with substrates.
• Stone veneer is not as heavy as other building materials. This makes it possible to install them without adding too much weight to the home or business they are being installed on. It also means it takes less effort to get them to the job site.
• Stone veneer weighs less and also costs less because it is easier to transport to distributors and to job sites. Natural stone is much heavier and requires additional shipping costs. Veneer is also less costly than natural stone, so it is a great option when keeping construction costs down is important.
• Veneer is flexible and easy to install around rounded or curved areas. Natural stone is not flexible and veneer makes it easier to complete the installation around tricky areas.
• Stone veneer is easier to cut to fit into the areas you need it. Getting the needed size and shape is easier with stone veneer.
• Stone veneer is more consistently colored so it is more uniform throughout the installation. There is also an incredibly wide selection of colors, styles, and sizes of stone veneer to choose from. This makes matching the color scheme or decorations of a home easier.
• Fireplaces can also be upgraded visually with the look of stone veneer. The material is heat resistant and can help give your fireplace that custom stone look that so many people desire.
• It is easy to care for stone veneer as it isn’t porous like natural stone. This means it stays cleaner and won’t hold onto dirt or grime.  You won’t need special cleaners and will be able to use regular household cleaners to keep your veneer looking great!
• Veneer is made to last with shock resistant and durable materials. Once your home or business has stone veneer installed it will be a trouble free and durable solution for your property.
• Stone veneer is color fast and will not fade with the rain and incredible heat of summer. It will stay looking great for many years to come.

What Is Natural Stone?

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.

Natural Stone Pros

Here are a few of the advantages associated with natural stone:

• Extreme popularity of use.
• Natural appearance.
• Heavy and dense.
• Colorfast.
• Durability.

Uses Of Stone Veneer And Natural Stone

Manufactured veneer stone is simply not strong enough to be used structurally for building purposes. Veneer stone can hold up to its own weight, but is incapable of holding additional weight. Natural stone can be used structurally, yet it has seen somewhat of a decline in popularity recently. If you desire authentic stacked stone, though, then natural stone is the only option for construction. Natural stone like travertine is used mainly for walls, flooring and pathways.

Appearances

One downside linked to stone veneer installation is the material’s color fading commonly over time. Manufactured stone generally comes with an enticing price tag, but the appearance leaves much to be desired. It can come with repetitive patterns and little thickness for support. Natural stone does tend to have a pleasing appearance, though. The colors of natural stone will fade with sunlight exposure, but this process will take a much longer time compared to stone veneer.

Should You Install Natural Stone Or Stone Veneer?

One reason why many home and business owners opt for installation of stone veneer is predictability. Stone veneer comes in predictable sizes and it is much easier to cut than natural stone. Natural stone may be your best bet for high-end installation projects.