Stone has been a favorite building material for a long, long time. As technology has risen to meet challenges, it has resulted in several innovations in siding material. One of them is faux stone panels. In this article, CLAD Siding highlights the best makers of faux stone, as well as the key differences between faux stone panels and stone veneer siding. Let’s get into it!
Faux Stone Versus Stone Veneer Siding
Before we get into the best makers of faux stone panels, it’s a good idea to understand the differences between this man-made material and natural stone veneer. Obviously, the biggest distinction between the two is that one is natural and the other is not.
Faux stone is a completely different beast. Though it retains much of the look of genuine stone – some prime examples are very close to the real deal in terms of aesthetics – it’s a manufactured material. Composed of a foam-like material, faux stone is much lighter, less expensive, and a lot easier to apply since it does not require mortar, grout, or a stone ledge. Panels typically are larger than natural stone or veneer, as big as 2 feet by 4 feet (and even up to 4 feet by 8 feet).
Stone veneer, on the other hand, is made of quarry stones. The most popular kinds include granite, basalt, limestone, and slate. The siding comes in two options: full veneer and thin veneer. A full veneer is cut from 3” to 5” in depth (and, in some cases, as deep as 8”). It must be installed on a stone ledge due to its weight. Thin veneer is cut to a depth of 3/4” to 1 1/4”. It’s installed onto an existing surface with mortar, much like brick.
Pros of Faux Stone Veneer
Easy to Install
As previously mentioned, one of the biggest selling points of faux stone panels is the ease of application. It doesn’t require many of the labor-intensive elements that its natural counterpart does. Instead, it is attached to a surface simply with glue.
Mostly Durable & Warrantied
Though it’s susceptible to damage, when placed in areas where there’s less likelihood of issues, this type of siding can hold up pretty well. In fact, it’s common for these panels to come with a 50-year warranty.
Weather Resistant & Insulating
The siding is highly weather-resistant, and unlike genuine stone, it provides amazing insulation. This is appealing to those in hotter or colder climates.
Cons of Faux Stone Veneer
Mass-Produced
Though it’s more cost-effective overall, the nature of faux stone – it’s mass-produced – can be an issue. If you’re looking for a more natural siding with unique variations, you might want to look at some other options. However, if you’re in search of a highly consistent look, this is a great choice.
Not Eco-Friendly
Just keep in mind that it must be properly installed to avoid moisture issues, and it’s also not a very eco-friendly siding material.
Susceptible to Damage
The downside is that since it is both made of a foam-like material and secured with adhesive, it is nowhere near as durable as natural stone, particularly in areas when there’s a greater chance of impact.
Pros of Stone Veneer
Authentic Looking
Composed of cuts of natural rock, stone veneer provides a more authentic look and feel. If you’re a fan of varying textures, colors, shapes, and sizes, then you might lean towards this variant. Nothing beats real stone, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its drawbacks.
Sustainability
Stone veneer does have the leg up on faux veneer when it comes to sustainability – it’s a highly abundant material that can be repurposed.
Cons of Stone Veneer
Cost
Though natural stone veneer is more durable and genuine, it comes at a cost. More specifically, weight and actual money. Both applications should be performed by an experienced siding professional, but stone veneer requires more labor and skill.
Moisture & Venting Problems
Its rigid nature can pose some issues. This comes in the form of moisture and venting problems. Cracks can develop, resulting in water damage and mold. And it’s known to cause damage to household vents.
When weighing your choices, keep in mind your main objectives. Are you mainly concerned with budget and labor? Then faux stone panels might be the ideal choice. Absolutely want the distinct and varying aesthetic and higher durability of the real deal? Then natural stone may be your next home siding choice.
Best Manufacturers of Faux Stone Panels
Do you have your heart set on faux stone? There are so many benefits to this amazing siding, as we discussed above. If you’re ready to beautify and protect your home’s exterior, now’s the time to get better acquainted with your options. As with any other siding, not all companies offer top-quality products. That’s why we’ve curated a group of the top makers of faux stone siding. Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be able to make a confident decision!
Eldorado Stone
Having won multiple awards, Eldorado Stone stands out from the crowd. A favorite among siding contractors and customers alike, the manufacturer is known for its original, charming, and realistic products. What separates Eldorado from much of the competition is its dedication to making panels based on stones that provide the optimal visual appeal.
GenStone
Popular amongst DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike – you can find their products in big home improvement stores across the country – GenStone is proud to proclaim that their faux panels are half the cost of standard masonry work. Highly accessible with a nice variety of finishes, the manufacturer has seen rapid growth in recent years.
Texture Plus
Manufactured in the United States and offering fantastic warranties, the faux stone panels from Texture Plus are highly durable and beautiful. Typically coming in a panel size of 2 feet by 4 feet, these products are a cinch to work with (as well as being cost-effective). From Carolina Stone to Cut Granite to Riverstone, there’s a wide selection available.
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This is a shortlist of the top manufacturers. We definitely recommend consulting with folks that have recently had this type of siding installed on their home. Qualified stonemasons and contractors can help, but it’s good to have a bit of knowledge in your back pocket.
Whether considering faux stone panels, stone veneer, or any other host of siding options, you need a reputable, licensed stone siding contractor. CLAD Siding makes it painless to locate, compare, and hire the best (for less) in your area. Click here to request your free quote!
