Designing with stone veneer is a great way to add curb appeal and value to any project! With a plethora of different types of stone veneer available today, we’re here to help you find the right option that aligns with your design aesthetic and project needs.
Not all types or brands stone veneers are the same, they can be produced differently and have unique advantages over one another. So, keep on reading as we break down and unveil exceptional qualities for the three main types of stone veneer most commonly used today - Manufactured Stone Veneer, Natural Stone Veneer, and Stone Siding.
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV), also known as faux stone, is a man-made product that is typically made of concrete and aggregate materials that have been pressed into molds. MSV can be molded into virtually any shape and size and finished in any color, making it a highly desirable and versatile finishing material. MSV is available in a wide range of styles and colors ranging from traditional and rustic to modern and trend-setting and is proven to be a reliable and cost-effective veneer option. MSV is lightweight, is easy to cut and handle, and can be installed in a variety of locations as it can adhere to any structurally sound surface. When it comes to MSV Cultured Stone® by Boral is the industry leader and is preferred amongst homeowners, builders and architects alike. Cultured Stone® is the pioneer of manufactured stone veneer and is sure to guarantee authenticity, longevity and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Natural Stone Veneer
Natural Stone has been used as a building product literally for centuries. A symbol of strength and permanence natural stone is available in two forms, traditional Full Bed and Natural Thin Stone Veneer (NTSV). Full Bed is a full thickness stone that is approximately 4 inches thick, whereas NTSV averages one to two inches in thickness and provides the same look and feel as traditional Full Bed. Natural Thin Stone Veneer has become increasingly popular over the past decade as it offers greater design flexibility and a wider range of application possibilities. NTSV typically installs much faster than Full Bed masonry, increasing site productivity of the skilled masons and installers handling the product. Pangaea® Natural Stone has quickly become one of the most recognized natural thin stone veneers on the market today adding value through their innovative fabrication and packaging processes. Pangaea® Natural Stone is redefining the expectations of natural stone veneer.
Stone Siding
Imagine cutting down the time it takes to install stone veneer, allowing you more time to focus on other parts of your project! That’s exactly what Stone Siding delivers, the beauty of stone with the simplicity of siding. Fitting together like puzzle pieces, our panelized stone siding products from Versetta Stone® offers the authentic appeal of traditional masonry with a modern installation method. Made of lightweight aggregate materials, this high-quality mechanical fastening system installs with screws or nails and can be easily done by a siding carpenter, contractor or a handy DIY homeowner. Versetta Stone® is lightweight which means additional engineering or structural support is not required. Each Versetta Stone® panel features a G-90 galvanized nail strip as well as a built-in rain screen to allow for water drainage and necessary wall ventilation. Versetta Stone® is perfect for any interior or exterior project, and can be installed year-round as there are no seasonal considerations unlike most masonry products. With Versetta stone® the timeless appeal of stone is now even more attractive!
We hope our blog on the different types of stone veneer helps with your decision making when it comes to choosing the right stone for your next project. Whether you’re a homeowner, skilled mason, contractor, designer, or builder, CSI – All Things Stone is here to be your number one source and resource for all things stone and more! Feel free to contact us if you have any questions, or if you need help in finding where to buy stone in your area. If you would like to use our online dealer search to find a store near you, please click here to find a store in Canada, or click here to find a store in the United States.