If you’ve recently started researching the various stone veneer options that are on the masonry market today, you have probably come across the terms “full stone veneer” and “thin stone veneer.” If you’re like a lot of other homeowners, though, you may not really understand what these two phrases mean. Not to worry! That’s where this guide comes in.
As you look over the next few sections, you will find overviews of these two popular types of stone veneer masonry products. You will also discover what some of the benefits are when it comes to each option. By the time you reach the end of the article, you should have a good idea of which stone veneer choice best meets your needs.
Full Stone Veneer: The Basics & Benefits
Full stone veneer is sometimes called 4-inch veneer and has long been a preferred option for homeowners who can’t use total stone construction for one reason or another. As a general rule, full stone veneers are larger and more durable than thin stone veneers. Since they have more surface area, they tend to be more detailed than their thin stone counterparts, which adds visual appeal, particularly on exterior projects where most passersby will be some distance away.
Full stone veneer options are also, however, more expensive due to their size and weight. If you are interested in doing any masonry installations involving full stone veneer at your home, the price is probably one of your major considerations. The cost of these veneers can vary widely depending on how much you need and what type of stone you’re interested in. The denser the stone, the more you are likely to pay; granite, for instance, is very dense and usually costs more than a light stone, such as sandstone.
These stone blocks are immensely durable and are better for outdoor projects than thin stone veneer styles. They can withstand high winds, sleet, rain, and snow without sustaining damage. If you have plans for exterior masonry services in the near future, you should select full stone veneers.
Thin Stone Veneer: The Basics & Benefits
As the name of thin stone veneer suggests, the pieces are thinner than those used in full stone veneer projects. Instead of 4-inch blocks, thin stone veneer is sliced into 1.5-inch blocks, resulting in an extremely lightweight product that is budget-friendly for most homeowners. These stone pieces are especially ideal for surfaces that cannot support the weight of full stone veneer products.
It does, though, bear noting that thin stone veneer options are relatively new to the market and have not been used as long as their full stone counterparts. This means we don’t really know how they will hold-up over the course of many decades. If, however, you are doing interior projects, such as accent walls, thin stone veneer masonry is probably your best option; you won’t run the risk of cracking your drywall under the weight of full stone pieces.
It’s a good idea to get quotes from several masonry contractors in your area before you hire someone to do your job. This way, you will not only be able to compare prices but will be able to determine which professional you feel most comfortable working with. It’s important to feel good about any masonry services experts you allow into your home, so having a few options is the best course of action.
If you are interested in having a stone veneer, whether full or thin, masonry installation done for your home or business, contact DeLuca Masonry Construction LLC today!
