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Faux Stone Panels Advantages

Do You Think Natural Stone Veneer Lasts Long? Think Again.

Ready To Renovate? Do Not Hesitate

House Under Renovation
House Under Renovation

Thousands of businesses from hotel developers to interior designers love the traditional and beautiful look of stone or exposed brick. When people decide to renovate their home or business and they are looking to create a stone or brick look they immediately think that the natural products are stronger then the alternatives.

This is a misconception that is slowly being reversed because of the problems that arise with traditional masonry projects. When building or renovating stray away from conventional methods in order to avoid problems in the future.

Stereotypes lead most people to use natural elements because that is all they are familiar with. People have the strong sense that stone is stronger then its alternatives. This is a big mistake because the porous characteristics of natural elements make it easier for them to get dirty. The stones get mildew inside of it and make it very hard to clean. Polyurethane stone panels do not have this problem because of the closed cell structure. Thake a quick look at the catalog: http://www.fauxstonedepot.com

The image below shows at how badly the stone has been discolored. This is a great example of natural stone veneer and why it is not good to use on projects that are exposed to water on a consistent basis.

Heavy Stone
Heavy Stone

Stone Veneer Projects Take A Lot Of Time 

Stone veneer projects require a lot of time to install due the need for a stone cutting saws, mortar, grout and time for the mortar to dry correctly. Although, there have been many advances in the stone industry nothing can change the chemical makeup of the stone or how long it takes to install. The faster the pace, the more damage may occur in the future due to loose fitting stones.

Gray stone veneer
Gray Stone Veneer Example

There are stone veneer slabs that have been sold in smaller sections in order to attract more customers, but the price and installation is still very expensive compared to the new alternatives available. Stone veneer like the white quartz in the picture can run about $14 a square foot. Even with this method the choices in style and color are still very limited.

Another addition to the material cost is the installation procedure which requires a mason. This issue can double the price per square foot. Another added cost is the equipment that may need to be rented for the project if a contractor is not being used. If somebody wanted to tackle the job themselves they may not have all the tools necessary so they would have to rent the equipment.

The maintenance of stone veneer is also very expensive because it requires a mason to come out to the site and make specific cuts and seal the whole surface. The repairs cost as much as the installation especially if the project is using a different mason than the one who installed it.

Fortunately, with the advances made in chemistry and technology there are many alternatives that side step the nightmare of using old stone. Avoid the headaches and the mess by checking out the alternatives before renovating to save money and time. Stone does not compare to the benefits of using imitation stone panels.