Masonry adds so much character to an outdoor living space. If you’re wondering whether it’s better to go with natural stone, concrete block, or stone veneer, read on about the many benefits of adding stone veneer to an outdoor space in Orange County and Sullivan County, NY.
What is stone veneer?
The term “stone veneer” is a bit misleading. It can refer to both thin-cut natural stone veneer that is meant to be installed over a concrete or other base; or, it is a manufactured product made using a mix of Portland cement, aggregates, and iron oxides for color.
Both are great choices. With natural stone veneer, you’ll get unparalleled character as each stone is completely unique. However, natural stone can be hard to source, tricky to cut and install, and rather heavy.
Manufactured stone veneer is a product that is gaining traction because it is lightweight (about half the weight of similarly sized natural stone veneers), easy to cut and install, uniform in size, and readily available. Manufactured stone veneer is also cheaper, and often less wasteful than natural stone. Installation speed is achieved by using interlocking stone panels along with corner elements that snap together. However, it is more brittle than natural stone veneer, you may notice repeating patterns, and it may fade noticeably over time.
Both natural and manufactured stone veneers can range from 2-8” in thickness; a sub-category, “thin stone veneer,” can be as little as 1-2” thick. A veneer can be applied over any hard, smooth surface.
For the purposes of this article, “stone veneer” in the following section will apply to both natural and manufactured stone, unless otherwise noted.
Where Stone Veneer Is a Great Choice
Stone veneer is a highly versatile material. Here’s where stone veneer can be a cost-effective and attractive solution:
1. Retaining Walls
A retaining wall constructed with a concrete block core and clad with stone veneer adds beauty to an otherwise utilitarian feature. Stone veneer is available in many styles, whether you want a rugged rustic look or a linear minimalist look. You can achieve the look of stacked flagstone; tumbled quarry stone; or sleek modern plank-style panels with stone veneer.
Stone veneer works well on curved surfaces. A stone veneer installation is a great solution for a curved seating area around a fire pit or a retaining wall that follows the contours of your property.
2. Outdoor Kitchens
Stone veneer is a solid choice for outdoor kitchens since it’s weatherproof, beautiful, easy to clean with an all-purpose cleaner.
Use stone veneer around the grill, to give your grill station a finished look. Install stone veneer over a wood-fired pizza oven.
3. Outdoor Fireplaces
Outdoor fireplaces often feature stone veneer. Many are made using fireproof concrete blocks and then clad with veneer for a custom look.
Where Stone Veneer Should Be Used with Caution
Natural stone and manufactured stone veneers can be used in many situations, but never as a structural element or as flooring due to its thinness.
If your plans call for masonry in the vicinity of a pool or hot tub, be sure to treat stone veneer surfaces with a sealant recommended by the manufacturer. Chlorine and other pool chemicals can cause discoloration or fading. Sealant can help protect the stone veneer, but you’ll want to hose these surfaces off frequently to avoid damage.
