Reconstituted stone veneer is molded, making it lighter than natural stone. Natural stone may require wall ties and footings, increasing installation costs and complexity. Reconstituted stone veneer is lighter, adheres easily to various surfaces, and allows installations that are typically challenging and expensive with natural stone.
Installation FAQs
Are all Veneer Stone products natural stone?
All of Veneer Stone’s lightweight products are reconstituted stone, offering several advantages over natural stone: lighter weight, easier installation, availability, cost-effectiveness, customizable colours, and prefabricated corner pieces.
What maintenance is required for our products if any?
Periodic washing to remove surface dust and debris is all that is required. Most products are virtually maintenance free.
What is our reconstituted stone made of?
Our stones are cast in molds using a blend of crushed limestone powder, a small amount of cement, and fade-resistant mineral oxide pigments.
What are the benefits of using hand crafted stone?
Handcrafted stone costs approximately one-third to one-half less than natural stone, eliminates the need for wall ties or footings due to its lightweight, and has a lower waste factor compared to natural stone. Our prefabricated corner pieces allow for easy installation around corners.
Will reconstituted stone fade?
The base colour is blended throughout, and durable mineral oxide pigments are integrated during casting. Similar to natural stone, there are minimal noticeable colour changes over years of weathering.
Can our stone products be used on wall area adjacent to swimming pools?
Our products perform similarly to other high-quality lightweight reconstituted stones. However, continued exposure to chlorine and other chemicals may affect coloration. For areas frequently exposed to water, we recommend protection with a breathable masonry sealer.
NOTE: A sealer may affect the stone colour and may create a gloss or matte finish. Always test a small area beforehand.
What kind of surface is necessary in order to apply our product?
Our stone products adhere well to prepared, clean, untreated, structurally sound surfaces such as wallboards, plywood, paneling, cement board, or masonry walls. Refer to our installation instructions for details.
How heavy are the stone products?
Weight varies by style, ranging approximately from 19 to 60 kilograms per square metre depending on the product.
Can the stone products be used on both exterior and interior applications?
Yes, our products are suitable for both exterior and interior applications, allowing you to blend indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly.
Can I install Veneer Stone myself?
Installation can be performed by individuals with basic stone masonry understanding. Please consult our user installation guide.
How important is a good stone installation?
Proper installation enhances the beauty of the product. Factors like profile type, colour selection, stone pattern, and grouting technique significantly influence the final appearance.
Does the colour go all the way through?
Yes, each stone has a base colour blended throughout, with additional colour variations integrated during casting. Handcrafted variations may result in slight differences from sample boards.
Can our stone products be cut?
Yes, our products can be easily cut or trimmed using tools such as a hatchet, wide-mouth nipper, handheld grinder with a masonry blade, or a brick saw.
Should I seal the stone?
While not required, sealing provides added protection and easier cleaning. Use a silane or siloxane-based penetrating breathable masonry sealer. Always test a small area first as sealers may affect colour and finish.
Can we install Veneer Stone around a fireplace?
Yes, Veneer Stone can be installed around a fireplace, ensuring the veneer is at least 20cm away from any open flame.
Should I colour the mortar?
Mortar tinted with iron oxide colours enhances the application by matching or complementing the stone colour.
Product colour variations
Our handcrafted products use naturally occurring aggregates, resulting in variations in colour shade between batches. To achieve a consistent appearance, select products from each pack at the project’s outset.
Where can I install Veneer Stone?
Veneer Stone can be applied to any structurally sound surface with the proper preparation. It fits nearly any building plan — large or small, interior or exterior, new residential or commercial projects — or on any remodel.
What is the average thickness of our stone products?
Average thickness is 2-5 centimetres, depending on textures.