One of the biggest benefits of manufactured stone veneer is the sheer number of styles, profiles, and colors. With seemingly endless options replicating what’s found in nature, there’s a look for every home and every taste. However, this can make the selection process a little overwhelming. So how do you go about choosing a manufactured stone veneer?
Consider these questions as you narrow the choices.
What Is the Style of the Home?
Like any cladding material, it’s important to choose a stone profile that meshes well with the exterior house style. For example, profiles with a more linear layout and clean edges, such as Ledgestone, are often ideal for transitional or contemporary homes. Fieldstone and brick profiles are well-suited to more traditional exterior styles. And irregular, rounded profiles, like River Rock, offer a perfect finish for country homes and cabins. (Learn more about common profile types here.) That said, there’s no one end-all-be-all solution—leverage manufacturers’ design tools to try different profiles on your home to see what works best.
What Is the Home’s Exterior Color Palette?
With a host of colors from earthy browns to dark grays, it’s easy to find a hue that suits the tone of your home. If the stone is being used as an accent, such as for a vertical bump-out or a half wall, consider the colors of the other cladding materials. Stone colors can complement the other siding in a slightly lighter or darker shade. In contrast, if the primary cladding is lighter in tone, a bolder stone choice could create a dramatic, eye-catching accent. Another consideration is the siding material’s undertone; if it has gray or red undertones, for example, the stone color could reflect that (or vice versa).
What Does the Rest of the Neighborhood Look Like?
Differentiating your home from others down the block is important—but standing out too much might create an eyesore. As you’re weighing colors and styles, consider how the finished façade will look alongside others in the community, especially if the homes are close together.
Where on the Home Will the Stone Be Used?
The application of manufactured stone may, though it doesn’t have to, play a role in the visual weight of the stone you choose. Larger stones and visually “heavier” profiles, such irregular looks like River Rock, may feel overwhelming to the eye across an expansive façade. Leveraging design programs can help you gauge the way the finished product will look all together versus a few samples.
What Is Your Taste?
Above all, it really does come down to your personal preference. If you like a particular look, go with your gut. Ultimately, it’s your home and should reflect what you love and enjoy. Unlike painting your house pink, there are few ways to go wrong with manufactured stone because it replicates what’s found in nature so it’s appealing across the board.
What Is Your Budget?
Like any building material, there are cost differences from brand to brand, depending on materials and other factors. Though there isn’t as much variation from company to company, it’s still something to think about if you’re on a tighter budget.
Where Are You Located?
Though manufactured stone veneer is widely available across the U.S., there may be some limitations on availability for all profiles and colors depending on location. Work with your local dealer or use manufacturers’ online dealer locators to determine what’s available before falling in love with one particular product.
Some manufactured stone manufacturers offer online design tools that allow you to experiment with different looks on an image of your home. Leverage those tools to try different colors and profiles in combination with other materials to see what works best for you.
Find an MSV Producer near you today. Learn how you can hire a contractor that holds a CMHA certificate in MSV installation here!
Manufactured Stone Veneer VS Siding: How Do They Compare?
The exterior of the home offers the ultimate first impression, and cladding plays a prominent roles. Choosing the right material can make the difference aesthetically as well as in the home’s long-term performance. But what is the best option when comparing manufactured stone veneer vs. siding? Manufactured stone is one of numerous options for the façade—and one of the soundest investments. But how does it compare to other cladding materials?
Cost & Return on Investment
When placing manufactured stone veneer vs. siding side by side, manufactured stone is often the more premium-priced option when it comes to first cost, especially compared to traditional vinyl siding. But the price tag is only part of the story.
Manufactured stone veneer offers the highest return on investment of any cladding material – by a significant percentage. According to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, manufactured stone veneer recoups 153% of its cost. This dramatically greater than all other cladding materials, including fiber cement siding replacement (88.4%) and vinyl siding replacement (80.2%).
Aesthetics
Manufactured stone veneer directly replicates stone found in nature – typically using actual stones to craft molds – typically at a lower price point than the real thing. Vinyl and fiber cement siding surfaces often are designed to replicate wood grain, but authenticity can vary greatly from brand to brand and is often reflected in the cost.
Not only does it look natural, MSV brings stone profiles and colors that consumers may not otherwise be able to get because quarried stone (and clay for brick) is usually sourced locally. Manufactured stone veneer allows buyers to choose a stone look that may be difficult (or impossible) to get at their location due to supply, distance, or cost.
Appearance
Beyond just authentic looks, manufactured stone veneer delivers a solid look on the wall, with blends and shapes limited only to the installers imagination. Vinyl siding can appear wavy on the wall if not fastened properly and shows visible seams.
Durability
Cement-based products are known for their durability, reliability, and longevity, and manufactured stone is no exception. Manufactured stone veneer and fiber cement siding are durable through all types of extreme weather, including wind, heat, and fire. Manufactured stone colors weather in similar ways to natural stone.
Installation
With panelized installation, vinyl siding has a lower learning curve and can be hung by siding contractors and experienced DIYers. Manufactured stone veneer is installed by masons and does take time to develop expertise. CMHA offers an MSV Installer program that provides fundamental MSV installation guidelines and industry best practices. This helps ensure better quality work as well as highly valued credentials.
Longevity
Lifespans and warranties for all three cladding types can vary greatly depending on quality, though all three outperform wood. Manufactured stone veneer lasts a minimum of 25 to 50 years, though its life expectancy is likely much greater as evidenced by the existence of concrete going back centuries. According to Today’s Homeowner, stone siding has a lifespan of more than 100 years, fiber cement siding can last up to 60 years with proper care, and vinyl siding lasts 30-40 years.
Maintenance Manufactured stone veneer, vinyl, and fiber cement all boast low-maintenance properties, with each requiring just occasional cleaning. Depending on the brand and the paint, fiber cement siding will eventually need to be repainted and recaulked, which MSV and vinyl will not require. Ultimately, choosing a cladding material comes down to a balance of preferences and priorities—first and foremost being what overall aesthetics is the buyer seeking and what is their budget. From there, weigh options for lifespan, maintenance, performance, and more before making final selections.
Building materials face deterioration from a variety of threats, the most serious and persistent being water and moisture. Although masonry is known for its durability of relative ease of maintenance, all building materials require proper installation—especially when it comes to moisture management.
It’s impossible to control all moisture entering a building, but there are many tactics to manage the moisture so that damp materials dry out quickly and water can exit quickly. Architects and installers must take a holistic look at the building envelope, including sheathing, weather resistant barriers (WRBs), drainage planes, and attachment systems that will help keep moisture out of the assembly, as well as important details such as flashing, transitions between materials, and sealants to ensure as much water as possible is being shed from the building.
Root Causes of Water Damage
Moisture-related problems in building enclosures have three root causes:
• External sources of moisture such as humidity, rainwater, and groundwater • Internal sources of moisture such as plumbing leaks, cooking, bathing, and even perspiration and respiration • Construction moisture that is present in building materials such as concrete and lumber.
Bulk water, capillary water, and water vapor are the three types of moisture that pose the most threat to building envelopes and must be mitigated through moisture management strategies. Bulk water from rain, snow, or groundwater can be the most damaging and enters the building from an opening in the envelope or a driving force such as air pressure or gravity.1 Bulk water can be controlled with proper flashing, sealants, and rain screens that work to drain any incidental water that does get behind the façade despite other waterproofing measures.
Capillary action is the movement of water and vapor through porous materials such as stone and brick due to the forces of adhesion, cohesion, and surface tension. Water wicks through these materials against the pull of gravity — think of rising damp in concrete or masonry. Two nonporous materials placed closely together can also provide a channel for capillary action to occur. The U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy notes, “Capillary action can best be controlled by providing a capillary ‘break’ such as plastic, metal, damp-proofing compound, or another impermeable material, or by leaving air spaces that are too large for capillarity to occur.”2
Moisture can be transported on air and enter a building through uncontrolled pressure sources such as the wind stack effect or controlled sources such as air handlers that move moist air past the building envelope and through even the tiniest of holes.
Water vapor can also pass through a building through vapor diffusion, which is dependent on the driving forces that push it into the building as well as how permeable the building materials are. Vapor barriers are used to slow down the movement of water vapor into a building. There are very specific guidelines for the permeability rating of these barriers and where they should be placed based on the climate where a specific project is located.3
Dangers of Moisture Intrusion
When water is not properly managed, it can be detrimental to the durability of the building as well as occupants and property inside the building.
Moisture intrusion can cause condensation within the walls, which ultimately deteriorates wood materials, causing sheathing and framing to rot. When insulation inside walls becomes wet, there is a significant reduction in thermal values. Metal components such as structural fasteners may rust and corrode, and adhesives will ultimately fail in the presence of excess moisture. Efflorescence, a white deposit of surface salt on the exterior of a building, can occur on masonry, which can also be damaged during freeze/thaw cycles as moisture within the masonry expands and contracts. Water-soluble materials such as gypsum can even return to solution.
Uncontrolled moisture allows mold and mildew to grow within walls, and eventually it will take hold inside the building and HVAC systems, posing a significant danger to the health of occupants. Damage to paints, coatings, furnishings, and interior components will eventually ensue.
Moisture Management Strategies
To avoid the negative effects of water intrusion, there are important building practices to follow when designing wall assemblies and specifying materials. Working from the inside to the outside of a wall assembly, specifying an appropriate type of sheathing and a compatible weather resistant barrier is the first layer of moisture management. If appropriate, a rainscreen system and weep screed can also be designed into the wall assembly to further drain incidental water. For example, manufactured stone veneer uses a rainscreen product in conjunction with a weather resistant barrier, or in some cases as the sole WRB, for installation.
Proper sealing is the next line of defense and includes meticulous attention to flashing and caulking details. Flashing should be installed around windows and doors, at all penetrations, and in various areas throughout the roof such as step flashing and roof diverters. Next, appropriate fasteners and sealants must be applied that are compatible with the material substrate. It’s vital to know how different materials interact and separate dissimilar materials if they may cause moisture penetration, corrosion, or another reaction that could compromise the structural integrity of materials and the building itself when improperly handled. Material connections are supremely important, as well, particularly when they are two very different products.
MSV Specifications for Water Management
Moisture issues can arise from rain or rain that is driven by wind into a wall assembly and by inward vapor drive. Bulk water intrusion and vapor drive can lead to damage and rot in sheathing and structural members in both wood- and steel-framed structures. Inward vapor drive can occur because WRBs are vapor-permeable, and moisture stored within the MSV or mortars can be driven by the sun and heated through the WRBs directly into the sheathing and stud bays. If the cladding is in contact with the barrier, water can linger in those locations, causing them to remain wet for extended periods of time. This can happen in both hot and cold climates.
In MSV installations, a two-layer WRB system provides a drainage plane to protect against capillary draw. Including a rain screen system between the WRB and stone veneer creates a drainage space that better prevents water intrusion. This ventilated air space allows bulk water to drain out, but also serves as a capillary break, meaning water penetrating behind the cladding is intercepted. The use of other fundamentally sound design details, such as rough opening protection and sill flashing beneath windows and doors, is particularly effective against water intrusion. Including diverter flashing at the roof/wall intersections, saddle flashing at low-to-high walls, flashing at floor lines, and deck flashing can all help to prevent moisture-related issues.
To avoid the negative effects caused by humidity, rain, and wind, it is crucial that trained professionals install MSV products. Improper installation — most often stemming from transitions around windows, penetrations, and exterior light fixtures — coupled with the fact that improper installation is not immediately evident, can lead to severe damage and increased costs. Defective installations cause more obvious damage in wetter climates, but in areas with less rainfall, moisture can stay hidden for years until it manifests as a much larger issue.
In general, to avoid the negative effects of water intrusion, the following top six building practices should be done correctly:
• Weather-resistant barriers • Flashing around windows and doors • Step flashing and roof diverters • Detail flashing • Flashing at all penetrations • Weep screed
CMHA offers an MSV Installer program. The course teaches installers fundamental MSV installation guidelines and industry best practices. Not only will it ensure better quality work, but the certificate is a highly valued credential by consumers and the broader marketplace.
Elevate Your Home with Stone Veneer: 5 Perfect Places for Accent Walls
In the world of home construction and DIY, creating an accent wall isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making a bold statement. These accent walls, also known as feature walls, are where craftsmanship meets character, and they’re more than just a visual interest; they’re a game-changer for your project.
While paint and wallpaper have their place, they can’t match the enduring value and impact of stone veneers and architectural tile. Accent walls not only elevate the aesthetics but also add substantial value to a property, and it’s simple to maintain, ensuring your home interiors remain a source of awe for decades.
Choosing the right spot for an accent wall might seem challenging, but often, the room itself provides strong cues. Here, we delve into five strategic settings perfect for your stone veneer accent wall.
Artepiso Orchid
1.First Impressions Matter
Remember, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Stone veneer on a wall greets your guests and sets the tone for your entire space. It’s the introduction that demands attention and admiration.
The placement of the Artepiso Orchid wall tiles in the space above acts as a focal point for anyone who may walk through the front door. These playful tiles, like any framed art, are sure to get the conversation started and create a welcoming atmosphere as soon as guests enter the house.
Light and easy to install, Artepiso 3D architectural tile adheres to most surfaces with a simple and inexpensive installation. They can also be painted for an attention grabbing splash of color.
Beon Stone® Carbo Classic
Pangaea® Fieldstone Cambrian
2.Accentuate the Architecture
Craftsmen know that great rooms deserve great features. Stone veneer can turn ordinary walls into stunning showcases. Fireplaces, floating room dividers, and walls with architectural details become canvases for your creativity.
A masterful example of this approach can be achieved with Be.on Stone® Carbo Classic veneer panels. Rather than installing shelves in the cutout section of the kitchen shown above, a stone matching the style around the adjoining room was applied, with artwork placed over it. From this vantage point, it gives the appearance of a window that offers a peak at the stone wall continuing behind it.
Ready to accentuate your home walls with another quick renovation, then look no further than your dated fireplace. Building materials like thin stone veneer and Pangaea® Fieldstone Cambria, seen above, transform any drab fireplace wall or surround into the family’s room’s best feature. See more fireplace inspiration in our blog, 5 Interior Projects To Tackle This Winter with Stone Veneer.
Pangaea® New England Quarry Ledgestone
Artepiso Andes
3. Chase the Light
Sometimes, all you need to find the perfect spot for your accent wall is to follow the light. Let the natural light be your guide, drawing visitors’ eyes to your masterpiece. However, be cautious with walls that get intense backlighting or the window views will overshadow the veneer.
When crafting the room with those captivating waterfront views in mind, practicality was key. The choice of Pangaea® New England Quarry Ledgestone veneer wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a smart decision. It blends seamlessly with the elegant wood paneling on the ceiling, all while ensuring the natural light from those massive windows takes center stage.
For those of you who like to get creative with lighting, consider adding some excitement with Artepiso 3D architectural tiles, seen here in hexagonal Andes shapes. These tiles boast intricate grooves and peaks, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. And if you want to kick it up a notch, apply a coat of vibrant, glossy paint to make them shine even brighter.
Cultured Stone® Echo Ridge Country Ledgestone
4. Read the Room
Look at the room’s layout; it often reveals the ideal accent wall location. Is there a wall where all the furniture converges? Maybe one housing a fireplace or TV? That’s your focal point, and that’s where stone veneer shines.
Take a look at the arrangement of the above living room, featuring Cultured Stone’s® Echo Ridge Country Ledgestone veneer. Would a feature have made better sense anywhere else? Note how the veneer calls out to the stone visible through the window on the home’s exterior.
Dutch Quality Winesburg Plank 4&6
5. Beside Views
In the bedroom, the most impactful accent wall is typically the one behind the bed. It highlights the bed as the most important feature of the room (which it is), and with the right material choice, can look like an extension of the headboard itself. And when you’re laying in bed, the view of an accent wall straight ahead may not have the calming effect you need.
Take a look at the red and brown hues of the Cultured Stone® Winesburg Weathered Plank 4&6 veneer. This manufactured stone was molded to precisely replicate the grain and character of reclaimed barn wood; its artistry and craftsmanship are molded to replicate the warmth of reclaimed barn wood.
We Make It Easy!
Creating a statement with stone veneer has never been easier. six brands of natural and manufactured stone veneer products available in hundreds of colors, shapes and sizes, Instone is your partner in making your vision a reality.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Stone Veneer Fireplace Upgrades
Ready for a decorative fireplace makeover? If that old brick fireplace doesn’t quite match your home’s new vibe, there’s no need to fret. Think of it as an opportunity rather than a challenge.
Swapping out the dated look for a stylish stone veneer fireplace is simpler than you might think. And guess what? In most scenarios, you can leave those bricks right where they are.
Sure, red brick fireplaces have that quintessential American charm. But, if yours looks a bit weary after years of cozy fires, it might be time for a change. While some folks opt for a quick brick fireplace makeover with heat-resistant paint, nothing beats the elegance and value boost of a naturalstone facade.
Wondering about the how-tos? Whether you’re thinking of adhering stone veneers directly onto the bricks or using nifty tools for an extra-sturdy bond, we’ve got the lowdown. Take a look at your options and tap into Instone’s treasure trove of resources to guide you every step of the way.
Prepping for Interior Stone Veneer
Before you dive into your fireplace transformation, it’s essential to set the stage for a smooth installation. Start by laying a tarp around the fireplace area. This step ensures that any stray mortar or debris doesn’t play havoc with your floors.
Next, give those bricks some TLC. It’s important to remove any dirt, dust, or loose materials that could compromise the adhesion of the stones. A vacuum with a brush attachment should do the trick for most of the cleaning. For stubborn spots, a gentle wipe with a damp sponge will work wonders. And if you come across areas of the brickwork that are crumbling or a bit unstable, consider giving them a light sanding to create an even surface.
Choose Your Backing
Option 1: Metal Lath
Want to ensure that your stone veneer clings on like a champ? Enter the metal lath. This meshy marvel is not only strong but also flexible. Shape it around your fireplace, get it to hug those corners, and even trace out that fancy mantel.
After drilling or nailing the lath into the bricks, you’ll want to apply a scratch coat over its entire area. Fill all of the gaps with mortar, build about ½ inch layer on top of the lath, and comb over it with the trowel’s teeth to create grooves for the stones to grip to. Once the scratch coat dries, you can begin applying mortar to the back of the stones and attach them to the surface.
Option 2: Cement Board
Want a simpler DIY? Then cement board might be your best bet. It offers a clean slate, making your veneer application smooth and easy. After fastening the cement board to your fireplace, you’ll want to spread a scratch coat, groove it nicely, let it dry, and then give it time to dry.
Then you can apply mortar to your stones and install them with ease.
Option 3: Direct Application
Got a fireplace in tip-top condition? Why not skip the lath or cement board and go direct? Apply the veneer straight onto the brick, but make sure those bricks are ready for the spotlight — means no crumbling faces, loose bricks, unstable cracks, or other substances on the fireplace that could weaken the bonding.
A tiny caveat: if your bricks have a paint job, it’s best to opt for either Option 1 or 2.
If you choose traditional stone veneer take the time to do a little prep. Before you begin, make sure your stones are clean and lay them out in your desired pattern.
Be sure that you have all the necessary materials at hand. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing your chosen type of stone veneer. In most cases, you’ll need your trusty trowel, type S Mortar, and a masonry saw before getting started.
For more detailed instructions, check out these comprehensive guides for Cultured Stone and Pangaea.
If you’re seeking inspiration for your fireplace makeover, take a look at these inspiration pages.
And if the DIY route isn’t your cup of tea, you can find a certified installer near you by searching our database.
Let Instone Make it Easy
Navigating the world of stone veneer fireplaces can be overwhelming, but don’t sweat it! Instone’s network of suppliers is ready to guide you. They’ll help you pinpoint the perfect method and materials tailor-made for your project. Ready to rock that decorative fireplace transformation? Contact Instone today for a dealer in your area.
5 Interior Home Projects To Tackle This Winter with Stone Veneer
Stone can set the tone for your interior home makeovers. Whether you need a mancave makeover to host late-night card games, an elegant dining room redo to impress guests, or an elevated entertaining space to lift spirits during holiday gatherings, stone veneer is your MVP. Adding a touch of stone to your home bar, fireplace, or feature wall can take your home entertaining spaces to the next level.
Ready for some heavy-duty inspiration? Scroll down and let’s start planning out your ultimate sanctuary with these 5 home improvement projects with stone veneer.
Pangaea® Fieldstone Cambrian
Pangaea® Fieldstone Cambrian
Pangaea® Fieldstone Westcoast
Pangaea® Fieldstone Westcoast
1. Fireplace Makeovers Add The Drama
Ramp up your fireplace game. Interior stone veneer doesn’t just add charm; it transforms a space. Imagine a floor-to-ceiling stack of stone veneer, framing a fireplace and capturing the feel of a time-honored estate.
The examples above feature Pangaea® Natural Stone products, offering a contrast in fireplace design styles thanks to a variety of available colors and patterns. For a bold look that makes the fireplace the star of the room, the last two images above feature Pangaea®’s Fieldstone Westcoast veneer. For a softer look, muted grays deliver a sophisticated, but understated impact, with Pangaea® Fieldstone Cambrian. No matter your home’s style, Pangaea has a look for you.
Dutch Quality Winter Point Drystack
2. Basement Renovations Rule On Game Day
When a home begins to feel crowded, the basement becomes the go-to space for entertaining. But hard choices await: which boxes to junk, what old gear to retire, and most crucially, which stone finish to choose.
Take this Illinois mancave makeover, where the homeowner transformed a standard basement into the ultimate entertainment hub for watching the games. The striking Dutch Quality Winter Point Dry Stack veneer sets the scene, perfectly framing the tv screen and inviting indoor fireplace. And that support beam, it integrates into the room design nicely thanks to the faux stone veneer, which mimics a natural stone pillar.
With a ping pong table, dartboard, and a flat-screen mounted over Cultured Stone®’s Arcadia Pro-Fit Terrain Ledgestone, we give this home points for having the coolest game room in town. The Pro-Fit Terrain stone veneer has staggered depths and alternating rough/smooth finishes to add depth and balance and to show this isn’t just a game room; it’s where legends are made.
Be.on®Cultured Stone®
4. A Historic Case for Stone in Wine Cellar
Archaeologists have found caves in Europe and Asia used by winemakers over 5,000 years ago. The ancient vintners knew that dark, subterranean confines were ideal for avoiding temperature swings that could ruin the fermentation process. The practice endured and gave rise to the temperature-controlled cellars that are still used to make and store wine today.
Instone honors this legacy with interior stone veneer that shout Old World gravitas. The above Beon Stone® Element Collection Carbo (left) panels and Cultured Stone® Palermo de Mare (right) veneer could be the right detail to add some traditional appeal.
Artepiso Cedar Wine on the bar
Pangaea® Sierra Ridge Roman Castlestone
Dutch Quality Sienna Drystack
Dutch Quality Sagewood Ledgestone
5. Home Bars That Have It All
What kind of vibe do you want for your personal bar? If you’re thinking bold and daring — and maybe even a little funky — take a peek at the incomparable shapes and textures of Artepiso 3D architectural tiles, like the Artepiso’s Cedar pattern tiles shown on this wine bar. The light and ultra-customizable concrete tiles can be painted any color and adhere to most surfaces with a simple and inexpensive installation.
Looking for a less modern material choice? Instone offers many material options for bars and wine cellars. The photos above showcase the multiple looks of stone veneer to create the perfect ambiance for entertaining.
Stone Veneer At The Ready for Your Indoor Renovation Projects
Got a renovation on your mind? From igniting the spark of an idea to laying down the groundwork, we’re here to help you with fresh ideas, material options, or cost estimates for your entertaining space makeover.
Instone carries six natural and manufactured stone veneer brands that offer hundreds of options for colors, shapes, sizes, and styles. Whatever your style – rustic, modern, or unique – we’ve got the goods. Hunting for something custom-made? Instone’s Fabrication and Design Services professionals are on standby, ready to assist.
Whether you’re a mason, contractor, or DIY weekend warrior, let us connect you with an Instone products dealer in your area. Contact us today!
Ensuring Longevity: Why ASTM C1670 Matters in Manufactured Stone Veneer
The New Bar For Quality
When the ASTM C1670 standard was established for adhered manufactured stone a 5 years ago it set a new bar for the quality, consistency and longevity of products used in residential and commercial projects around the world. Today a growing number of state and local governments in the U.S. are catching on, adopting this standard and enforcing its use.
One of the leaders in the push to develop ASTM C1670 was Westlake Royal Stone Solutions, the producer of Instone’s manufactured stone veneer (MSV) lines Cultured Stone and Dutch Quality Stone. According to Jeff Tew, Westlake’s director of technical and training, created the standard was essential for establishing trust in a relatively young and rapidly expanding industry. Many manufacturers offer warranties of 50 years.
“I think it’s important because there are so many companies making manufactured stone right now that it can be difficult to know which ones are making a code-compliant, quality product. Stone can look really good on a sample board, but how is it going to look years down the road?”
Jeff Tew, Westlake’s Director of Technical and Training
5 Essential Tests
To find out, MSV products are subjected to a rigorous set of tests devised by a group of scientists, engineers and industry experts assembled by ASTM International (formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials). Stone products are evaluated in five critical areas: compressive strength, freeze-thaw durability, shear bond, water absorption and density, and dimensional tolerance.
Tew said some of the test methods can be entertaining to witness. For the compressive strength test, a sample of the veneer mix is added to a cylinder form, left in place to cure, removed from the form and then placed under a round plate that pushes down on it until it explodes. The material must withstand 2,100 pounds per square inch (PSI) to earn ASTM C1670 certification.
For the shear bond test, a sample piece of the veneer is adhered to a concrete block and exposed to downward pressure until it snaps off. It must achieve at least 50 PSI.
Cultured Stone Black Rundle Alpine Pro-Fit Ledgestone
Any and all mixes of a product must be tested to earn certification. If there is even the slightest difference in the physical composition of Cultured Stone’s Black Rundle and Chardonnay Country Ledgestone veneer styles, both must be submitted for separate testing. Once they pass, they must be retested. Three of the tests are done every 12 months while the other two are done every 24 months.
“It’s not just a one and done process,” Tew said. “It takes an investment of time and money to prove your product through third-party testing.”
The Path to a Standard
The movement toward a unified quality standard for MSV reached an important milestone in 2008, when they were covered in the acceptance criteria (AC) known as AC 51. For the first time, msv manufacturers could test their material to a recognized standard in AC 51. But industry members recognized that manufactured stone needed to face its own, tougher benchmarks.
2013 saw the development of ASTM C1780 to address the installation methods for msv. Followed in 2018 by the addition of ASTM C1670 to address msv manufacturing. Tew pointed to the more stringent freeze thaw threshold as one significant difference.
Under AC 51, materials were exposed to 50 freeze-thaw cycles and could only lose 3 percent of their weight to crumbling or flaking. ASTM C1670 demanded no more than 1.5 percent loss. The tougher product will be more likely to survive the extremes of America’s cold northern and hot southern climates.
Participation in the ASTM C1670 is voluntary for manufacturers, and the standard is not enforced evenly throughout the country. However, with its 2018 inclusion in the International Residential Code (IRC), which applies to home building, and the International Building Code (IBC), which covers commercial projects, that is now changing.
The periodically updated IRC and IBC are go-to standards for governments seeking consistent parameters for all of the construction materials used in their jurisdictions. According to Tew, it typically takes a few years for states to examine and adopt the changes (in fact, revised versions of the IRC and IBC were since issued in 2021). Over the last few years, most states have adopted the 2018 version of the I-Codes or newer. That means local code inspectors in these jurisdictions are actively checking to ensure manufactured stone products are compliant and rejecting those that aren’t, he said.
Long Term Impact
ASTM C1670 should not be dismissed as another bothersome government code to meet, but embraced as a tool for businesses to protect their investments and reputations, Tew said. When you choose a manufactured stone veneer that’s compliant, you lower the odds of material failures and a costly return trip to the job site to redo the work, he said.
“I believe owners of buildings, architects and builders all in their cores want to use products that will stand the test of time because their names are attached to them,”
Jeff Tew
“I believe owners of buildings, architects and builders all in their cores want to use products that will stand the test of time because their names are attached to them,” Tew said. “Using a product that meets the standard is one way to do it. Being able to test to a clear criteria makes it easy for them to make their selections, and they don’t have to do a lot of research.”
The Power of Curb Appeal: How Your Home’s Exterior Impacts Its Value
Instone offers hundreds of stone veneer options, including this Dutch Quality® Sagewood Weather Ledgestone, ideal for traditional style home renovations to new home constructions.
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. Time and time again, Bridget McCann, a broker associate with Baird & Warner, has seen homes with more attractive exteriors sell faster and for more money than those with superior interiors. She recently sold a home in an upscale, competitive Illinois neighborhood, and the one feature that really stood out to buyers was the stunning stonework around its pillars.
“The buyers’ first reaction was, ‘Wow, this entranceway is stunning,’” McCann recalled. “As you walked up the staircase, you felt like you were at a million-dollar home because of how pretty the stonework was.”
This is the power of curb appeal.
Simply put, curb appeal is how attractive your home looks from the street. A well-manicured lawn, quality landscape stone, and a good paint job are just a few things that can make a big difference in your home’s curb appeal.
Curb appeal is a property’s attractiveness when viewed from the street and the impression it leaves on a passerby or first-time visitor. It can be driven by factors both simple and structural, including a nice lawn, quality landscape stone, a good paint job, the cleanliness of the property, and the architecture and construction quality of the home.
And it’s not just about aesthetics. Research shows that homes with good curb appeal sell for more money and spend less time on the market. A study published in The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics found that curb appeal can account for up to 7 percent of a home’s sale value.
“The curb appeal premium is more pronounced during times of housing market weakness and greater in neighborhoods with high average curb appeal,” said lead author Sriram Villupuram, of the University of Texas at Arlington College of Business.
For a modern aesthetic, Instone offers a variety of exterior stone siding selections, including this Cultured Stone® Vellum Modera Pro-Fit Ledgestone
With a decade of experience in both the real estate and construction industries, McCann knows that stone veneers on a home’s facade, natural stone walkways, and pavers flanking a driveway can all add an upscale feel to a property.
And in today’s digital age, the first impression buyers get of a property is often through its online listing on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). That’s why it’s crucial to make sure that the property’s front porch and overall image is compelling enough to draw them in for a closer look.
“You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression and the exterior of a house is always your first impression,” McCann said. “If it doesn’t have a nice exterior, you won’t want to step inside the house and check it out.”
Instone’s Pangaea® veneer products offer over 40 natural stone patterns and colors. Pictured here is Ledgestone Copper Canyon.
McCann emphasized that the use of neutral-tone stonework, such as light grays and off-whites, has been quite successful in selling homes in her suburban Chicago market. She suggested steering clear of exotic colors that cater to too specific of tastes but emphasized that well-installed and tastefully designed stones are always a plus for your curb appeal.
While stone veneer siding is not a search criteria listed on the MLS, McCann stressed that it could set your home apart from others in the subdivision and give you an edge. As buyers tend to spend more on renovating the interior, having an attractive exterior that doesn’t require further renovation is crucial. When clients ask her for advice on boosting their curb appeal for a sale, McCann doesn’t recommend making pricey investments. Instead, the focus should be on maintaining the home and avoiding letting any features fall into disrepair.
Forbes suggests three simple steps for improving curb appeal, including making sure that any stone or brick work looks clean through professional power washing to remove stains and grime and “reveals a clean, fresh look that adds to the attractive ambiance the home should display.”
“Make sure you’re keeping up with the exterior of the house – there’s no peeling paint anywhere, there’s no shingles missing on your roof, there’s no siding hanging off, or anything like that,” she said. “Get all of your ducks in a row on the exterior because poor curb appeal will cause buyers to stray.”
So if you’re looking to sell your home, don’t underestimate the importance of curb appeal. Invest in quality materials, like natural stone veneer, keep your property clean and well-maintained, and you’ll be sure to make a great first impression on potential buyers.
Contact Instone today to learn more about products and services that can help enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Cottagecore Style: Bringing Nature Indoors with Stone Veneers
Published:
Last Updated:
Author:
instone
As winter moves in, if you’re looking for ideas to cozy up your home, look no further than the cottagecore trend. This lifestyle aesthetic celebrates the slow-paced, romanticized aspects of countryside living and bringing elements of nature indoors. Cottagecore began with streams of photos on social media around 2018 and really gathered steam during the pandemic for those wanting to embrace staying home and sheltering from the fast-paced, modern world. The look is now hitting the mainstream as an interior design style that provides balance from the hustle of life as we begin post-pandemic normalcy.
What is Cottagecore Interior Design Style?
Rustic, farmhouse and antique furniture, vintage collectibles, handmade items and decorative textiles, fresh and dried flowers, warm tones of aged and well-loved pieces are just a few of the elements you’ll want to incorporate to create this vibe in your home.
If it looks familiar to you, it may be because it borrows elements of other popular design trends such as shabby chic, cottage, granny, and English country. The idea is to strive for simple pleasures and comfort with a focus on nature and sustainability. A large aspect of cottagecore is using and repurposing items you already have—or have gathered from your own rural property—such as produce and flowers and handmade items. It also involves bringing in vintage or antique items, rather than those that are mass-produced, to produce a sense of calm and tranquility.
For Tara Kelly, whose blogs on The Art of Cottagemaking and Instagrams are filled with English-cottage style decorating tips, handmade how-tos, recipes and gardening inspiration, she says cottagecore is about creating a lifestyle that speaks to you, “I grew up on a small farm, so it’s about getting back to my roots and country life,”. she says. “Cottagecore embodies a slower way of living, less reliance on modern technology and appreciating the little things, as little or ordinary as they may seem. It’s about how I choose to go about living life: engrossed in nature, putting myself and my family first, and creating things that feed my soul.”
How to Use Stone Veneers for the Cottagecore Look
Adding elements of stone to your interior and exterior environment is a seamless fit for this design style to reflect nature and old-world charm. There are several ways you can use stone veneers to easily and instantly create the cottagecore look of a quaint home in the European countryside.
Add a stone feature wall: Create interest on a bare wall by using stone from top to bottom for a feature/accent wall. This wall could be anywhere in the home, from enhancing a headboard behind the bed in the bedroom, to a living room or a dining room. The look of natural stone will warm up the space with texture and color (not to mention it will look great for Instagram photos and videos or as a backdrop for Zoom meetings.) If you don’t want to commit to a full wall, stone wainscoting can also add some natural-looking texture to a space.
Do your kitchen backsplash in stone: A big part of the cottagecore lifestyle is spent in the kitchen. If you look at any cottagecore content creator’s social pages, you’ll find photo after photo of people baking pies and pouring tea. So the kitchen is the perfect place to incorporate stone into your backsplash, making you feel you’re cooking in an authentic English country kitchen.
Redo your fireplace surround with stone: If your fireplace is outdated and just not giving snuggly vibes, you can use stone veneers to basically wrap your existing fireplace and make it look like it was built with authentic stacked stone to add character and a vintage look.
Home exterior: Spice up the entryway of your home by using stone veneer for a textured, timeless look. Use it around doorways, posts and lampposts or as a wainscot siding.
Design Inspiration: Cottagecore
Need some more inspiration? Check out our mood boards:
What Stone Veneers Work Best for Cottagecore Décor?
We suggest these stone veneer options for your cottagecore home upgrade:
Cultured Stone – a manufactured stone veneer that is made with eco-friendliness in mind by using an average of 58% pre-consumer recycled content.
Dutch Quality – a manufactured stone veneer inspired by nature. It is made using art and technology for an authentic natural stone look.
Install a stone accent in your home, gather some wildflowers from the field and you, too, can be like an Instagram cottagecore influencer pouring a long, slow cup of tea before you tuck into a freshly baked pie and crack open a vintage book in front of your stone fireplace.
Ready to go cottagecore? Make your wish list and contact us for samples of Pangaea, Cultured Stone and Dutch Quality stone veneers.
