Throughout the ages, stone has been utilized as a formidable building material. It provides amazing structural stability, which led to its popularity as the go-to material for protection against the elements. As time has passed (and construction technology has changed), stone is no longer needed solely for its strength. It’s now a popular siding choice. This is due to its beautiful aesthetic, lending a charming and striking flair to any home. In this guide, CLAD Siding discusses key differences between two main siding choices: stone and stone veneer.
Natural Stone Siding
Prized for its decorative qualities – the unique textures, patterns, and colors can make a home pop with major curbside appeal – stone siding easily claims the title as one of the most attractive cladding options around. Made up of quarry stone (including slate, granite, basalt, and limestone), this siding choice is a timeless and durable winner!
As a 100% natural material, real stone is taken out of the ground or quarry and cut to your desired measurements. Though it was a popular choice for many centuries, stone is now rarely used as a structural material. No two stones are exactly the same, providing a distinct and stunning effect that works in a number of applications, from walkways to home exteriors.
When it comes to natural stone siding, it comes in two flavors: full veneer and thin veneer.
- Full veneer: Full veneer is typically available in 3” to 5” depths, but can also go as deep as 8”.
- Thin veneer: As for thin veneer, as the name implies, it is much thinner at an average depth of 3/4” to 1 1/4”.
As we all know, stone is heavy. Full veneer requires a lot more structural support (in the form of a stone ledge) and labor. It also requires the skill of a seasoned stonemason for optimal results. Thin veneer, on the other hand, doesn’t have nearly as much weight. With flat backing, it can be installed on an existing surface with mortar, pretty much like brick.
Stone Veneer Siding
Okay, so we now know a little bit about natural stone. What about stone veneer? Technically, the two types of natural stone siding mentioned above are veneers. In this case, when referring to stone veneer siding, we mean manufactured stone.
As opposed to genuine stone, manufactured stone is obviously manmade. There are two main categories: cultured stone and faux polyurethane.
Cultured Stone Siding
Cultured stone siding is composed of lightweight concrete that is then poured into molds. These molds come in various shapes, sizes, and textures, helping to replicate the look and appeal of genuine stone without the higher cost or weight.
Faux Polyurethane Siding
Faux polyurethane siding, on the other hand, is a mixture of polyurethane, fire retardants, and UV inhibitors. This results in a super lightweight, foam-like material. As with cultured stone, it can be molded and customized to fit the exact aesthetic of your property.
Differences Between Stone And Stone Veneer
Whether it’s full stone veneer or faux polyurethane, these types of siding add a striking look to your exterior. And compared to many other siding choices, they both provide ample durability and low maintenance. But how do you choose which one to put on your house?
When choosing a stone or stone-like siding material, you need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. What might work for one application may not be the best for another, and vice versa. Below, we’ve included the pros & cons of each main type, natural stone and manufactured stone. Equipped with this knowledge, you should be able to confidently decide which option suits your style, budget, and more!
Pros and Cons of Natural Stone
Pros of Natural Stone
- Authenticity: When you want the real deal, look no further than natural stone. Coming from nature, nothing is removed or added. This results in a material that is both appealing and unique. Each stone has its own character, which is virtually impossible to come close to when compared with manufactured stone siding. Simply put, natural stone adds amazing textures, tones, and variations that are a delight for the eyes!
- Durability: As well as being authentic, stone is a highly durable, sustainable, and versatile siding material. Since it’s impervious to sunlight damage, you don’t have to worry about it cracking, fading, or peeling. And when installed properly, genuine stone can last up to a century!
- Variety: On top of that, it comes in a multitude of types, patterns, and colors. From igneous (like granite and basalt) to metamorphic rock (like slate and marble) to sedimentary rock (like limestone and travertine), there are so many options.
Cons of Natural Stone
- Expensive: But, of course, there’s a price to pay. Due to how it’s sourced (particularly from a quarry), plus its weight and the skill required to install it, natural stone is not a cheap option. Yes, you can choose to go with a thin stone veneer, but compared to cultured stone, this is still a more costly option. Just be prepared for the funds and labor needed to install this on a home.
- Moisture issues: Along with how resource-intensive it is, natural stone has a few other issues. If installed improperly, moisture can be a big issue.
- Venting: Also, due to its rigid nature and the use of mortar, it can lead to issues with venting. If you’re unable to deal with a crack or hole in a vent soon enough, this can lead to pest infestation as well as water damage.
Pros and Cons of Stone Veneer
Pros of Stone Veneer
- Budget-friendly: Stone veneer, or manufactured/cultured stone, is a more affordable alternative to natural stone. Offering much of the visual appeal of the real deal, without the immense weight or cost, this is the perfect pick for those on a budget.
- Lightweight: At the top of the list, of course, is affordability. Unlike stone, which is labor-intensive and super heavy, cultured or faux stone is much easier to handle. Plus, you don’t need to install any extra support on your home.
- Low-maintenance: It’s also low-maintenance, requiring cleaning with a hose or low-pressure power washer once a year or so.
- Diverse options: Offered in an array of colors, finishes, and textures, cultured stone siding can match any aesthetic.
- Sustainable: It’s also sustainable. This is because, though manmade, it can be recycled.
- Energy-efficient: Faux polyurethane, for example, offers better energy efficiency compared to real stone or even cultured stone. This is a big plus, particularly if you live in a hotter or colder climate.
Cons of Stone Veneer
- More susceptible to damage: On the downside, manufactured stone is more susceptible to damage. Concrete can be destroyed by severe cleaning, while faux polyurethane can be bent in by impact damage. In either case, you’ll want to be extra careful with it compared to real stone.
- Not always sustainable: If you go with faux polyurethane, you’ll need to know that this material is not sustainable. In some instances, it can be recycled later on. But for the most part, it isn’t composed of sustainable materials. If this isn’t a concern for you, however, it can be a great alternative to the expense and labor of natural stone siding.
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In need of skilled (and affordable) stone siding installation by a licensed siding contractor? From faux polyurethane to natural stone, CLAD Siding easily connects you with a highly reputable stonemason without a hassle. Click here to request your free quote today!
