From ease of installation to aesthetics, there are many key differences between cultured stone veneers and natural stone veneers.
In a nutshell, cultured veneer stone is comprised of a thin layer of decorative stone utilized for feature walls and home facades but is not designed to be load-bearing. Conversely, natural stone veneer comes from real, quarried stone cut into thin pieces and placed onto your home’s façade. Its textures, tonal variations, and irregularities give the end result a natural, rustic appearance. This was the only option for hardscaping projects till about the 1960s when cultured stone was first introduced.
Cultured stone, a man-made product designed to mimic natural stone in appearance, is lighter and easier to install than its natural stone cousin. It’s made of concrete and aggregate materials that have been pressed into molds, then stained, painted, or sprayed in natural-looking patterns and colors.
At first glance, the two options may seem very similar, but there are some key differences to consider. Your masonry contractor in Michigan can further outline the differences and help you settle on the best option. Here at Dennis Robert Masonry, we specialize in the installation of cultured stone veneer.
Installation Process
The biggest advantage to using cultured veneer stone is the ease of installation, thanks to its light weight and density. Manufactured stone is not only lighter, it’s easier to cut and handle – plus it can be attached to a variety of surfaces (even drywall).
Natural stone, on the other hand, can only be installed on porous stone, block or concrete. It’s not as flexible as cultured veneer so it can’t be easily manipulated to fit a curved surface. And because natural stone is denser than cultured stone, it’s harder to cut.
Aesthetics
The winner in this category is subjective and will depend on the tastes of the individual homeowner. The most natural-looking option for your home design is a natural stone exterior due to its inherent beauty and natural texture. Because no two stones are the same, your façade will not feature a repetitive pattern.
Real stones are available in unique and varied colors, while cultured stone relies on paints and stains to mimic that natural look. While offering a good imitation, the paint in cultured stones can fade over time with sunlight and element exposure. But because they are man-made, cultured stone veneers come in a wider variety of colors and styles. Finally, because you can control the colors and patterns of cultured stone you want, you can achieve a more consistent appearance.
Cost
Initially, natural stone veneers will cost more than cultured veneers. However, natural stone lasts longer so the cost may even out over time because you won’t have to replace it as often. If you’re looking for a lower cost alternative, both in terms of material and labor, cultured stone veneer is the more affordable option. Cultured stone veneers give you a cost-effective alternative to natural stone with minimal maintenance requirements.
Maintenance
Speaking of maintenance, cultured stone veneers only need minimal upkeep. Plus, they resist stains, fading, and cracking, which means you’re choosing a durable and low-maintenance option that lasts the test of time. Keeping a natural stone veneer in good condition takes a lot of regular care, from cleaning to repair or replacement of loose stones. Natural stone also needs to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and moisture infiltration.
Request a Free Quote For Cultured Stone Veneers From Dennis Robert Masonry
We are experts in installing cultured stone veneers for Michigan homes. Book your free consultation and quote when you contact us today at +1 (248) 794-0066 or complete our online form.
