Stone has long been a structural and decorative staple for builders, homeowners, and designers looking to incorporate aesthetics, opulence, and natural elements in a design. However, stone is costly to obtain and transport. In recent years, the use of manufactured stone veneers on homes and commercial buildings has skyrocketed and has so far outpaced the demand for natural stone. Manufactured stone veneers are used to grace the surface of fireplaces to create cozy retreats, wrap columns for a stately finish, or cover the façade of commercial buildings to transform their appearance.
Manufactured stone veneers are thin, lightweight, fabricated alternatives to natural stone. The product is a mixture of cement, mineral oxide pigments for colour, aggregates, and other additives that are poured into stone-like rubber moulds and baked. The veneers are manufactured to resemble the natural appearance of stone and have a flat back for easy installation. Unlike natural stone, manufactured stone veneers are not weight-bearing; they are solely for decorative purposes.
The robust demand for manufactured stone veneers is expected to continue to rise as builders, homeowners, and designers explore the many benefits of the material—the driving force behind the demand for this innovative product. Below are five reasons why veneers are becoming more popular.
1. Versatile
Consumers like a versatile product—it is more useful as it offers multiple applications and benefits. Manufactured stone veneers are one of the most versatile masonry products on the market. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, they can be installed in a variety of ways to enhance the aesthetics of a space. Indoors, can be used for kitchen countertops, feature walls, shower walls, or columns. Outdoors, can be used as siding, on retaining walls, for walkways, and to embellish fireplaces or surface entryways.
2. Wide range of options available
Manufactured stone veneers offer builders and homeowners a wide range of options for their design projects; seemingly unlimited textures, patterns, shapes, and colours are available. Manufacturers can fabricate veneers to mimic just about any stone that exists in nature—in copious amounts—and in recent years, they have been expanding their product lines to include stone veneers beyond nature’s look and texture. Regardless of the design, chances are there is a veneer that can complement it.
Consumers are no longer limited by nature’s offerings. Projects requiring uniformity, particular colour schemes, or cuts in large quantities are easily facilitated by the stone veneer manufacturing process. The ability of the industry to replicate veneers in any quantity also makes sourcing and installation easier for builders and homeowners wishing to improve on pre-existing projects.
3. Budget-friendly
High transportation and installation costs make solid stone expensive—a deterrent for many consumers who desire the look of stone. With manufactured stone veneers, consumers can attain the same long-lasting, aesthetic qualities of natural stone at a fraction of the cost, making them a viable alternative for those looking for a budget-friendly solution. The lower cost of manufactured stone veneers has put stone designs within reach that some consumers could not otherwise afford.
4. Made for easy installation
Manufactured stones are lighter than their stone counterparts and thus are easier to install. Their flat backs affix more readily to multiple substances, including wood, metal, and concrete. The pieces are pre-arranged and require no cutting or shaping—allowing them to be installed quicker, saving time and money.
While it is ideal that an experienced stonemason installs the veneers, their easy installation makes them perfect for DIY projects.
5. Product evolution
In previous years, the reputation of manufactured stone veneers was tarnished by their poor quality and mediocre imitation of the real thing. Today, advances in technology and manufacturing processes have allowed manufacturers to create quality brands of stone veneers that are stronger, more durable, and more realistic. Unless very closely inspected, it is difficult to tell the difference between the manmade product and the real thing.
Modern stone veneers now weather like natural stones, have built-in hygienic properties and are mould and mildew resistant. Most are made to withstand fire and smoke—a plus when it comes to indoor applications.
Connect with a stone supplier in Surrey
If you are planning to remodel using manufactured stone veneers and need a supplier in Surrey, contact us at Pacific Art Stone. We supply a wide range of manufactured stone veneers and other masonry products ideal for your next residential or commercial project. We are known for offering high-quality products, and regardless of the product selection you make, we guarantee you will be satisfied.
Contact us today regarding your queries or visit our store to view samples and speak directly with one of our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives.
