Nov 1, 2023 | Architecture, How To's
From the world of home improvement and construction, the use of stone veneer has been steadily gaining popularity, and it’s no wonder why. In 2023, this versatile material continues to captivate homeowners, architects, and builders with its timeless elegance and remarkable durability. If you’re considering natural stone veneer for your next project, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is Natural Stone Veneer?
Natural stone veneer is a thin layer of genuine stone that is cut and shaped to resemble traditional solid stone. It offers the same aesthetic appeal as solid stone but at a fraction of the weight and cost. This thin layer is typically attached to a backing material for ease of installation, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Benefits of Using Natural Stone Veneer
1. Aesthetics
One of the most compelling reasons to choose natural stone veneer is its unmatched beauty. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of slate or the classic elegance of limestone, natural stone veneer offers an array of textures, colors, and patterns to complement any architectural style.
2. Durability
In 2023, homeowners are prioritizing durability, and stone veneer delivers. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for exterior siding, and it can last for generations when properly maintained.
3. Eco-Friendliness
Natural stone veneer is an environmentally responsible choice. It is a natural material that requires minimal processing and is sourced sustainably. Using it in your construction or renovation projects can contribute to a more eco-friendly home.
Popular Applications for Stone Veneer
The versatility of natural stone veneer allows for a wide range of applications:
1. Fireplaces
Transform your fireplace into a stunning focal point with the timeless beauty of natural stone veneer. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary look, there’s a veneer option to suit your style.
Elevate the aesthetic of any room by creating an eye-catching accent wall with stone veneer. It adds depth, texture, and a touch of luxury to your interior spaces.
3. Exterior Siding
Enhance your home’s curb appeal with the durability and elegance of natural stone veneer siding. It’s available in various profiles and finishes to match your design preferences.
Stone veneer isn’t limited to indoor use. It can also be used to create beautiful outdoor features such as garden walls, pathways, and water features, adding a touch of nature to your landscape.
How to Install Custom Stone Veneer
While professional installation is an option, many homeowners in Las Vegas, Arazonia and all over the world, are exploring the DIY route. Here’s a simplified overview of the installation process:
- Prepare the Surface: Ensure the surface is clean, flat, and structurally sound.
- Apply a Moisture Barrier: Install a moisture barrier to protect against water infiltration.
- Mix Mortar: Prepare mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply Mortar: Spread mortar on the surface and back of the stone veneer.
- Set Stones: Place stones onto the surface, pressing firmly to ensure a strong bond.
- Grout and Seal: Fill gaps between stones with grout and seal the veneer to protect it from the elements.
Maintenance and Longevity
To maintain the beauty and durability of your natural stone veneer, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regularly clean the surface with a gentle cleanser and a soft brush.
- Apply a stone sealer to protect against stains and moisture.
- Inspect for any loose or damaged stones and repair them promptly.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Aspects
In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, natural stone veneer stands out as an eco-friendly choice. Its minimal processing and natural origins make it a responsible material option. Additionally, its thermal mass can contribute to energy efficiency in your home.
Choosing the Right Stone Veneer
When selecting natural stone veneer for your project, consider the following factors:
- Climate considerations (suitability for your region’s weather)
- Architectural style and design preferences
- Budget and cost considerations
Cost Considerations and ROI
While there may be a higher upfront cost compared to some alternatives, it offers long-term value. Its durability, timeless appeal, and potential to increase property value make it a worthwhile investment in your home.
Conclusion
In 2023, Stone Veneer continues to shine as a popular choice for homeowners and builders looking to enhance their properties. Its aesthetic appeal, durability, and eco-friendliness make it a standout option. By following the guidance in this ultimate guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and create stunning, enduring projects with natural stone veneer.
Remember that each project is unique, and it’s essential to consult with professionals or suppliers for specific advice and product recommendations tailored to your needs. To view samples and ask questions, visit www.naturalstoneveneer.com
Dec 30, 2021 | How To's
Whether it is upgrading a fireplace or adding a feature wall, homeowners often debate between man-made stones and natural stones. Choosing between the two can come down to personal preferences as well as important factors such as cost, texture and color. Let’s look at some of the key differences between the two.
Man-made stones are manufactured by using technology to mimic the realistic qualities of a natural stone such as texture and color. With time, technological advances have allowed man-made stones to be manufactured in large quantities which helps create a lower price point for the stone. Since man-made stones are manufactured, their colors are created with pigments that are just found on the outside while being concrete on the inside. Natural stones are quarried from the earth and their beauty lies in their features of imperfection, raw textures and color variations that have been formed over millions of years. This beauty lies throughout the stone itself.
Natural stones are vastly unique. No two stones are alike. The color of the natural stone is acquired from the minerals found in the stones. These minerals give the natural stones their personality and they can withstand any environment, which is one of the reasons why they maintain their color and texture throughout their life and uphold their value. Natural stones are more durable and ever-lasting. The same can’t be said about man-made stones. Man-made stones can deteriorate over time and can be damaged when exposed to natural elements like sunlight, dirt, oil, rain and wind.
When selecting a stone for your next home project, keep in mind the differences and make an informed decision to get the best outcome possible. It is very important to go through the pros and cons. This will ensure that there are no surprises at the end of the project. Oftentimes, the price of the stone is the only aspect kept in mind without realizing the installation cost of the final project.
Dec 15, 2021 | Interior Design Ideas, Uncategorized
Imagine driving up to a mountain lodge. You await that warm and homey feeling when entering the lodge. The fireplace is enveloped in a stone masterpiece. You can smell the melted chocolate from your hot cocoa as you enjoy the warmth surrounded by your loved ones!
Fireplaces are an essential part of a lodge and a statement to any home. They are a gathering point for families and a wonderful place to make memories.
Investing in a stacked stone fireplace can add value to your home and increase your living environment. Old brick fireplaces always need a facelift. Over the use of their life, dust, soot and dirt collect into the crevices making them difficult to clean. It will never look as good as it once did.
Natural Stone fireplaces age with beauty. Even with their use, these stones will tell a story for years to come.
Thinking of renovating a fireplace? Here are four different types of fireplaces in four different natural stones that would help you achieve a stunning stone masterpiece.
Ledgestone
This is an ideal stone for those looking to add the warm and homey feeling one gets when up to a mountain lodge. This stone is rustic and raw, with a rugged face and natural hewn edges, this series is as natural and raw as it gets.
Rock Face
What is old is new again, and this is true for our Rock Face series. This trend is inspired by the mid-century modern style of the 1960s and Palm Springs California, making it suitable for modern and traditional settings.
A Marble Affair 3D
The 3D Panels series consists of precision-crafted natural stone panels. The pieces are cut with the grain revealing a naturally lighter and enchanting grayscale color. These are designed to project a contemporary look by combining the most beautiful characteristics of natural stone with modern design thinking.
Lavastone
With clean sharp lines and amazing shadow effects, lavastone strips are our most sophisticated creation. Precise cuts allow for easy installation of this contemporary series of natural stones. These clean lines give the fireplace a modern and sophisticated finish and go extremely well with modern technology and furnishings.
Jul 27, 2020 | Green Architecture
Ongoing Journey Towards Sustainability
In the era of Covid-19, many countries are trying to tackle the global health crisis with various testing methods; in the US by measuring the rate of infection and recovery rates, in the UK measuring the Coronavirus R-value, and the overall growth rates worldwide. Since we value and care about our clients’ safety, health and happiness, we are on a mission to help you know more about our Dolomitic Limestone-based products and make better purchase decisions for your architectural and design needs – the sustainable way.
The flow of energy at a specific living or working field is relative; as well, it is interconnected with its surrounding elements. To improve overall energy efficiency, we must consider the all-embracing environment. Thus, it is essential to understand the thermal control process and measurement properties including the energy factors, insulation system, and moisture movement.
What is R-value?
R-value is shorthand for the thermal resistance. Walls are mostly made up of several layers, so different materials are calculated in different ways. According to Energy.gov, the R-value is determined by “the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. The amount of R-value you’ll need depends on your climate, type of heating and cooling system, and the part of the house you plan to insulate.” Moreover, you may have heard of the U-value a.k.a. thermal transmittance of a building structure. As an engineering term, it is the inverse of the R-value.
When measuring the R-value, take into consideration the above map chart proposed by our partners at Lowe’s where you can enjoy the luxury of buying our Sustainable & Natural Stone products from the comfort of your home. We can ship across the country and all over the world.
There are two other energy codes, which are significant for industry professionals. The K-value (λ), also known as thermal conductivity, indicates the material’s ability to conduct heat. However, the C-value (thermal conductance) depends on its thickness component.
Below we state five scientific takeaways:
- The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation, and the more energy you will save.
- The lower the U-value, the better its ability to insulate.
- The lower the material’s K-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness.
- The better insulated a system is, the lower the C-value will be.
- Heat is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units).
By following such guidelines, you will able to conserve energy around your property. Get in touch with your technical professional for a special consultation. Let’s protect and sheath our walls; just as we do to protect ourselves from the Coronavirus disease (Covid-19)!
What is insulation?
Insulation is the use of specific materials (cellulose, fiberglass, and foam) for walls and attics to minimize heat transfer. Consumers can lower their energy payment bills and achieve their comfort as a result of planning an insulation system in the house or commercial space.
During winter, heat exchange occurs from a heated space to an unheated one – i.e. the roof. Heat movement can even be through walls and ceilings whenever there is a difference in temperature. Whereas, during summer days, heat crosses from an external area to an internal area. Having windows make a difference as well. Our Stone Veneer products are seamlessly natural as they are a great source of insulation along with the other multi-layered materials.
What is moisture movement?
Humidity! What can you do about it? The addition of insulation material to a wall is likely to change the way moisture moves through it. The moisture content may fluctuate depending on the local weather conditions, time, and sun’s exposure vis-a-vis the building. Applying the thermal values will ease the process and avoid pitfalls when it comes to moisture distribution, thermal performance, and layers’ health. Our Stone Veneers are unique and weather-resistant. You can enjoy peace of mind to the fullest!
It is said that each season has its treasure. With the risk of climate change and current environmental issues, we are truly confident to offer our clients Stone Veneers that are sustainable and natural all at once. They will have the luxury to enjoy their place every day of every season, all thanks to our fully-packed NaturalStoneVeneer.com products. Thin veneers are directly applied to surfaces or layered walls; they can be prepared and installed without reduction of the interior space.
Are you aware of the continuous global efforts towards sustainability? Now it’s the time to develop your space with an adequate thermal control system to maximize the energy efficiency that serves you the best way. We have a wide variety of Dolomitic Limestone Stone Veneer products that are durable and environment-friendly; you won’t need to replace them for a century or more. Choose Natural Stone Veneer since we CARE about you and your family. Click here to Download our Catalogue!
Jul 21, 2020 | Architecture
Stone is a mystery yet to be discovered.
Stone is always a natural one; it cannot be anything else.
When we think of stone, we remember the breathtaking Dolomites in Italy, the Stonehenge in England, the Washington Monument in D.C., the Sphinx of Giza, and many other stone crafts and landmarks that make a great difference in our lives. And of course, Natural Stone Veneer precious client projects; we call them “masterpieces.”
What is Stone Veneer?
Historically adopted and used in Rome and for the façade of the Colosseum, Stone Veneer is a quarried architectural product that can be held for different purposes and needs in residential and/or commercial projects. The quality of the stone matters; thus the stone veneer is known to give any exterior or interior space an unrivaled aesthetics and color capabilities. NaturalStoneVeneer.com is known to be the pioneer in fabricating Stone Veneer in the local market. We were the first to introduce this concept; in addition to the corners and caps for a proper finished design.
How Stone Veneer is fabricated?
Nature offers many variations of stones such as the limestone, travertine, onyx, marble, serpentine, slate, sandstone, quartz, granite, and the Dolomitic Limestone. Unlike manufactured stones, we at Natural Stone Veneer fabricate the Indonesian Dolomitic Limestone, and we give our stones the final finish without alteration of the natural physical significance. The stones undergo a delicate production process in our factory. Furthermore, at our Las Vegas HQ showroom, we have a wide variety of ready stone pallets and containers in stock to be shipped nationally and internationally. We are a proud member of the American Institute of Architects – AIA Las Vegas Chapter.
Is Stone Veneer Expensive?
Cost-effectiveness is a crucial factor when clients are shopping for stone material, whether through a direct point of sale or online. Therefore, they can simply select from the diversified modern or classic collections of stone veneers and corners with special prices. Our stone comes in random individual pieces glued together creating a panel for easier installation.
Our top-selling finishes include Rocky Mountain, Tuscan Ashlar, Biscotti, and Split Face hand-chiseled stone. You will find them on the Lowe’s website; requesting a sample is highly advised before placing any order. We are also available to receive your queries at our HQ in Las Vegas if you’re visiting us!
Top 5 Advantages of Stone Veneer
- NATURAL BEAUTY
Stones embody sustainable and organic elegance. Let’s dig deeper into the natural stones’ makeup to understand their mineral composition and formation. According to Natural Stone Institute, sedimentary rocks are recognized as bonded and layered stones, as each layer builds upon the other during the formation process. Limestones and marbles change and metamorphize to become a denser material. Igneous formation occurs inside or outside of the Earth through volcanoes.
Types of stones and their characteristics should be reviewed to make the right decision when it comes to your construction objectives and applications. The Dolomitic Limestone is a fantastic creation, which may contain fossils or shell formations; while being smooth enough to use it as a classic thin veneer; we are specialists in this kind of stone. Just by realizing the natural beauty and spirit of the stone, we will already fall in love with it.
- EASY APPLICATION AND CARE
With the expert’s guidance, natural stones are easy to choose, install, maintain, and care. It will be easy for your installer to grab a panel and apply it on the wall since we carefully prepare and gauge the stone in our factory. To achieve the best results, the installer should examine the entire shipment when purchased and be prepared to work to ensure color blend assortments that can be enjoyed for a lifetime!
- DURABILITY
Suitable for outdoor and indoor use, the Dolomitic Limestone Stone Veneer has many strengths: mostly known for its durability, high density, high resistance to water, fire, and other elements. It is also best for harsh environments, for example, pool or seaside. NSV products are tested and certified to meet the highest quality of architectural specifications.
- VARIETY
The Dolomitic Limestone stone veneers can have some color variance of up to 40% due to the natural essence. If you are an Architect, a Contractor, or a Home Owner, you can mix and match desired colors and finishes as we provide stone veneers that feature over 15 different color variations, as well as unlimited, cut-to-size finishes and sizes.
- VALUE
Think investment! If you wish to keep your property as a “generational” residence/workspace, or even resell it to a potential buyer; your stone design can be a showstopper because of its diverse benefits. The stone also has a high environmental impact due to its natural form (R-value).
The Competitive Advantage of Natural Stone Veneer
The key to excellent product selection will open the door for clients’ satisfaction and additional purchases in the future.
We value our clients who are Architects, Contractors, Designers and Home Owners in the course of “high involvement” routine in the selection process; by consulting and delivering our product and service the best and safest possible means.
Having a team of high-skilled industry professionals who take care of the tiniest details, we consider our clients ‘PARTNERS’ and we believe in MUTUAL SUCCESS.
Do you want to know more about Stone Veneer? Check out our Modern and Classic collections here and let us hear from you to help you create a beautiful design with our stone veneer art!
