How Is Stone Veneer Made?
Stone veneer is a popular building material for creating beautiful, long-lasting exterior walls. It has been used in residential and commercial buildings for centuries, but it’s now quickly becoming one of the most desired materials for home decor. At Harristone, we have many different stone veneer options for you to choose from. Stone veneer is created by attaching thin layers of natural stone onto a backing material, usually metal or fiberglass. This makes the stone easier to install and less expensive than traditional solid stone building materials. But just how is stone veneer made?
Types of Stone Veneer
The type of stone veneer you choose will depend on the look and feel you are trying to achieve. Different types of stones can be cut into thin layers for use in stone veneer. Popular choices include granite, sandstone, marble, slate, and limestone. Each of these materials has unique characteristics that can contribute to the overall appearance of the finished product. The three main stone veneer types are faux stone veneer, natural thin stone veneer and full bed veneer.
Faux Stone Veneer
Faux stone veneer is made from a combination of cement and plastic. This type of veneer has the look and feel of real stone but it’s much lighter in weight. The colors are typically more uniform than natural stone, which can be beneficial if you want a consistent look across your entire project.
Natural Thin Stone Veneer
Natural thin stone veneer is made from pieces of real stone cut into thin layers and typically affixed to a substrate such as concrete or foam. This type of stone veneer provides the most realistic look but is more expensive than faux stone veneer. It’s also more difficult to install as the natural stone can be prone to cracking and breaking.
Full Bed Veneer
Full bed veneer is similar to natural thin stone veneer, but it uses thicker layers of real stone instead of thin sheets. This type of veneer is best for large projects such as walls, fireplaces, and other vertical surfaces. It has a more distinct, rugged look than faux or thin stone veneer and is much heavier as well.
Why Use Stone Veneer?
Stone veneer is often used instead of traditional solid stone building materials for several reasons. It’s more lightweight and easier to transport and install than traditional stone blocks or bricks. Stone veneer also doesn’t require any mortar for installation, which makes it a quick and easy job. Plus, stone veneer is much more cost-effective than solid stone building materials.
How is Stone Veneer Made?
Stone veneer begins with a thin layer of natural stone, such as granite, marble, or slate. Depending on the type of project and the desired look, different stones can be used for different finishes. The stone is cut into thin slabs and then attached to a backing material. The backing material is usually metal or fiberglass, and it helps the stones adhere together and stay in place.
Once the stone has been attached to the backing material, it’s ready for installation. This process can be done by professional contractors or people who want to do it themselves. Stone veneer is typically installed on the exterior of a building, but it can also be used for interior walls and other applications. Installers must take special care to ensure the stone is securely attached to the wall and won’t move or shift over time.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process for stone veneer starts with selecting a source of natural stones. The stones are cut into thin slices between ⅛ to ¼ of an inch thick. Once the stones are cut, they’re attached to a backing material. This backing material can be made from metal or fiberglass and helps the stones stay in place and adhere together.
Advantages of Stone Veneer
Cost Efficiency
Stone veneer is much more cost effective than traditional solid stone building materials. It’s also easier to transport and install, resulting in fewer labor costs for the contractor.
Design Versatility
Stone veneer offers a variety of design options that can be used to create unique and eye-catching looks. From classic stone walls to contemporary fireplaces, stone veneer can create stunning designs for any project.
Durability and Longevity
Stone veneer is much more durable than traditional building materials. It can withstand extreme temperatures and heavy rains without fading or deteriorating. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and repair if necessary.
Harristone Has Any Stone Veneer You Need
Stone veneer is an attractive, cost-effective alternative to traditional solid stone building materials. It’s lightweight and easy to install, and it offers a variety of design options for any project. Stone veneer is incredibly durable, making it an excellent option for interior and exterior applications. Whether you’re looking to update your home or create an eye-catching feature in your landscape, stone veneer is a great choice. At Harristone, we pride ourselves on having the best stone veneers you can imagine and our products will make your house the home you always wanted. We have locations in Salt Lake City, Park City and in outside states. Contact us today to learn more about our stone veneer services.