Stone is a timeless material that works with any architectural aesthetic. It can be one of the most rewarding materials to use. And, it’s one of the most versatile. Looking into stone veneer? Here’s how visiting a stoneyard in Bergen County, NJ, can make your decision easier.
Related: BLUESTONE, LIMESTONE, AND OTHER STONE OPTIONS TO CONSIDER IN ULSTER COUNTY AND SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY
But first, why use stone veneer? Through the ages, stone has been the primary building material. It’s incredibly tough, durable, and of course, filled with beauty and character. However, stone blocks are extremely heavy, and difficult to cut. This makes building retaining walls and other vertical elements difficult and therefore adds to the cost of installation.
Today, you can achieve the timeless look of natural stone using stone veneer. The veneer is thin and is designed to be installed over a concrete block base. A veneer cannot be used as a structural element, like solid stone blocks.
In addition to natural stone veneers, you could opt for engineered stone veneers (concrete veneer made to look like natural stone). These modern veneers have come a long way in recent years in terms of authentic natural stone look and durability.
Between natural stone and manufactured stone, the choices can be overwhelming. Visiting a stone yard can help you narrow your choices and make the final decision easier.
Getting Familiar with the Products
First, you can see various veneers in person. It’s hard to get a “feel” for a product online or in a catalogue. When you see a veneer in person - preferably installed outdoors in a realistic setting - you can decide whether it actually delivers the look you’re going for. This is important for several reasons.
Natural stone will always look natural, but you may be limited in color choices, which may not blend well with your home’s style. With engineered stone, you’ll have a greater range of colors which may make engineered stone veneers a better choice for hard-to-match home colors.
Higher end engineered stone veneer will look the most realistic. In particular, the experts at the stoneyard will help you look for products that don’t give you an obvious repeating pattern and feature the most authentic natural stone look.
Be sure to take home samples of all materials you’re considering, and view the samples in the area they will be installed, in various weather conditions: sun, clouds, and rain. All products look different in various lighting conditions, and moisture enhances and darkens colors. You want to be sure to get a product you’ll be happy with no matter the weather.
Checking Availability
The current global supply chain problems have a strong impact on the availability of both natural stone and engineered stone veneers.
You may have your heart set on a particular product only to find out that lead times are many months out, or that the product is no longer available. Talking to your stoneyard representative will ensure that you will be able to order enough of a product for your project - as well as potentially order more in the future should you want to expand its use elsewhere in your landscape.
If you’re willing to wait, you could pre-order a product; but if you want to move your project along and a product you want is on back-order, a stone veneer employee can help you with alternative choices that give you the look you want in a currently available product.
Working with Pros
Whether you’re interested in a DIY project or want to get a recommendation for a top local mason, the stoneyard is the place to go.
