Do you want to add some earthy accents to your home or landscaping? Natural stone veneer is the perfect solution.
This building material is increasingly popular because it’s real stone that’s cut thin enough to be relatively lightweight. It’s certainly much lighter than full bed stone veneers. Plus, it can be installed without building a block or concrete base.
Natural Stone Veneer Is the Builder’s Choice
Natural stone is the real deal. It’s quarried from the earth and is strong, durable, and stable.
Because it comes straight from the earth, it’s eco-friendly and resists natural elements. And since it’s real stone, it can be cut in a way that cast stone veneer can’t.
Cut Options
The cut of the stone is key to the layout of your design. The following options are available for natural stone veneer:
1. Round and Oval
- Since most stones are round or oval, this cut gives the most natural look, as if built from stones right from nature.
- This is a popular cut for fireplaces or any wall aiming to capture that old farm look.
2. Rectangle
- The rectangle cut is a universal cut that can be used in most applications. It conveys a sense of sturdiness and balance.
- This is one of the more classic cuts.
3. Square and Rectangle
- It’s not uncommon to see centuries-old castles and forts that incorporated rectangle and square stones. They worked together to convey solid sturdiness.
- This is partly why the square and rectangle cut denotes a classic “old world” appearance. It’s especially effective in larger applications.
4. Ledge Cut
- Ledge cuts are done at a width of two to four inches and are available in varying lengths.
- They can be used alone to create that “stacked” look seen in more modern and contemporary designs.
5. Mosaic Cut
- This veneer incorporates points and angular shapes in a mix of small, medium, and large sizes.
- Because this cut is so showy and interesting, it’s a good choice for larger areas where the contrast of the shapes and sizes can take center stage.
6. Mix It Up
- Keep in mind that you’re not limited to any single one of the above-listed cuts. If your one-of-a-kind design calls for a whole mixture, then go ahead and mix it up!
Color Options
The options for color in these veneers is expansive.
You might want a natural palette of earthy reds, creams, browns, grays, or a combination of these. But there’s always room to mix in some different hues too. Try a bolder blue, black, or purple.
Your stone veneer supplier can help you with all of the different color combinations and point you in the right direction.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation of these veneers requires a clean surface sheathed with metal lath. There should be a vapor barrier included beneath the lath for outdoor installations. Generally:
- Stone veneer is applied directly to brick and concrete surfaces with the proper thin set mortar base. It’s similar to applying tile.
- Using mortar, a scratch coat is applied. After it cures, additional mortar is used to adhere the stone veneer to the mounting surface.
- After the installation and drying process is complete, a sealer is applied to protect the surface.
- All that’s required for maintenance after that is periodic cleaning with a hose or a stiff brush and soapy water.
It’s Time to Get Started!
If you’re in the market for natural stone veneer, we hope this guide makes things a little clearer.
And when you’re ready to get the process started, just contact us. We’re ready to show you everything this dynamic building material has to offer!