Frequently asked questions on Natural Stone Veneer

Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Stone Veneer

What are the advantages of using a natural stone veneer rather than a manufactured stone product?

Natural thin stone veneers have many of the same benefits and cost saving elements of manufactured stone veneer with the added gain of being a natural weather resistant product. Since natural stone siding has proven to be of better durability and strength than manufactured stone, they will hold there beauty year after year and can receive pressure washing. Real stone veneer also tends to hold up better to sunlight and won't fade like cultured stone. There is un-matched beauty and color in natural stone often much more vibrancy too. Additionally, stone veneer made from natural rock is much more resilient to chipping and breakage.

Where is Natural Stone Veneer quarried?

Stone veneer is quarried from multiple locations in and out of the United States. Connecticut, Wisconsin and other parts of the east coast are home to the largest stone veneer quarries in the US. Each area producing stone products of vast color ranges with unique distinguishing variations in each.

How should my Natural Stone be Installed?

You should hire a licensed and insured masonry contractor for your stone installation. Its best if you purchase the stone before hand and have it professionally delivered to site. Check credentials and asked to see work performed. Improper installation is costly in materials and repair.

What is the difference between Grouted and Drystack Installations?

For either dry stack or grouted the surface prep is the same. Installation is similar too, the big difference is whether the units are modular in size or is there a significant variance in shaping and size. That will greatly impact pricing of the install and time to complete. Determining whether you should go dry stack or grouted relies upon overall exterior design of the home. However it is known that natural stack stone has a universal application in modern home design.

How much dust and cutting is involved in Natural Stone Veneer?

Natural stone veneer products can be wet cut and also hammer cut. Grouted thin stone can be virtually installed all by hammer cuts with very little dust produced. Modular stone veneers require little grinding versus a bluffstone veneer or other veneers that have stones of all varying shapes and size. These are the veneers that require ample grinding to go together tight and level and are not suitable for interior applications.

Should I seal my Natural Stone Veneer?

There are many contributing factors to whether your stone should be sealed or not. Most of the time, it is not needed however certain more porous stones do benefit from the use of a sealer. If a sealing is needed or requested it is essential a breathable sealer is used.

Mineral Deposits and Color Variations in Stone?

Since natural stone veneer is a product of the earth variations in color and streaking is to be expected. This is why it is best to have the entire job stocked out so that the stone can be evenly blended during install.

How should I clean my Natural Stone Veneer wall?

Natural stone grouted or drystack can be scrubbed with a mild detergent mixed with water. Pressure washing is a great way to clean the stone as well. Sealing the stone after installation helps reduce the frequency of needed washing.