Natural Stone Versus Manufactured Stone Veneers
The debate continues regarding natural stone versus manufactured stone veneers in landscaping and other home improvement projects. Similar to the debate over real wood floors and wood laminate, natural stone and veneers have supporters on both sides. Natural stone veneer is an incredibly beautiful material for building; however, it is also heavier and usually more expensive. Many supporters of manufactured stone veneers argue you can obtain the same aesthetic value by using the more affordable option of veneers.
What Are Stone Veneers?
There are true natural stone veneers, made from thinly cut pieces of real stone. However, most stone veneers are not stone at all, only cement, polymers, pigments and some natural stone added to create the effect of natural stone appearance. Both these products are thin coverings made to provide a structure with the appearance that it’s completely constructed from natural stone, without the high cost. Common uses for veneers include:
- Fireplaces
- Exterior and interior home walls
- Fencing
- Outdoor kitchen areas
- Water features
Choosing Between Natural Stone And Manufactured Veneers
If aesthetics is the only concern, you will probably choose manufactured veneers over the natural stone variety. Manufactured veneers are lighter, saving on shipping costs. Also, they are uniform and easier to install. However, this does not mean there aren’t also benefits related to using natural stone veneers. For the authentic look of natural stone without actually using entire stones to build a structure, the closest you can get is natural stone veneers.
Both types of veneers can be used in almost all projects where natural stones could be used. However, many contractors and landscapers recommended natural stone or at minimum natural stone veneers for water features, as the manufactured veneers do not hold up as well to the impact of water.
Posted on behalf of Find Local Landscapers