With its unbeatable allure, combined with rich textures and unique colors, manufactured stone adds instant sophistication to any space. While it’s been a go-to for outdoor facades for decades, thin stone veneer takes things indoors, offering a versatile solution for bringing that natural beauty right into your home. From cozy fireplaces to stylish kitchen backsplashes and even mudroom makeovers, the creative possibilities with stone veneer are seemingly endless.
Here are four of the inventive ways stone veneer is being incorporated into interior design, showcasing its versatility and charm in unexpected ways.
Rustic Stone Kitchen Island
Photo courtesy: Horizon Stone.
Stone Nursery Accent Wall
For parents-to-be who appreciate the timeless appeal of neutral tones, a neutral scheme exudes quiet luxury and brings a sense of tranquility to the space. This stone veneer accent wall adds depth and texture to the serene environment. The natural tones and subtle textures of the stone complement the neutral palette beautifully, creating a warm atmosphere while adding visual interest to the pace. This stone accent wall is also a durable, low-maintenance backdrop that can easily adapt to changing styles and trends as the child grows up. It’s a versatile canvas for decorating and personalizing the space, which allows parents to create a soothing and serene environment for their little ones to thrive in.
Photo courtesy: Horizon Stone.
Stone Veneer Vanity Wall
A stone veneer accent wall behind a freestanding modern bathtub or vanity elevates the space with aesthetic appeal and long-lasting durability. The natural, “stacked” look adds rustic charm, bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside. This accent wall adds timeless elegance to the bathroom, creating a captivating focal point that enhances the overall ambiance. The stone veneer’s organic textures and earthy tones also complement this serene, spa-like atmosphere. And unlike conventional wall coverings like paint or wallpaper, the stone veneer is also highly resilient, withstanding moisture, wear, and tear, preserving its striking appearance for years to come.
Photo courtesy: Horizon Stone.
Outdoor Stone Fireplace and Lounge Area
Amber Lewis of Amber Interiors, celebrated for her cozy interior design aesthetic from her home’s exterior to the outdoor fireplace and lounge area in her California renovation. Inspired by a blend of old European architecture and the rugged beauty of the California coast, Amber’s design ethos infuses the outdoor space with timeless elegance and modern comfort. The stone-clad fireplace and lounge area create a focal point for year-round enjoyment. The cohesive use of stone ties the outdoor elements together while harmonizing with the natural surroundings, including the majestic oak trees framing the property, fostering an earthy, serene ambience perfect for relaxation and entertainment.
Photo courtesy: Horizon Stone.
With countless creative possibilities, incorporating stone veneer into your design aesthetic adds depth and character to any space.
Manufactured stone veneer is often top of mind for exterior facades—but the same benefits (and more) make it an ideal option for commercial interiors. From ease of installation to eye-catching aesthetics, manufactured stone can create a look designers love while infusing warmth, authenticity, and style into the space.
Why Is Manufactured Stone Suitable for Commercial Interiors?
Many of the traits that make manufactured stone veneer a go-to product for building exteriors carry over to the interior—and then some. Among the benefits for commercial spaces:
• Design versatility: Commercial interiors, particularly those used by the public, rely on beautiful aesthetics to portray an image and make customers feel welcome. Manufactured stone veneer’s sheer abundance of profiles, styles, and colors means specifiers can meet nearly any design need. Seeking a contemporary, linear look? You got it. Want something rustic and textured? It’s available. You can even find MSV that replicates the look of barn siding or other woods—splinters not included. Plus, there are looks and colors available that simply cannot be found in nature.
• Consistent appearance: Natural stone can vary greatly from piece to piece, over time and across locations; and it is not an unlimited resource. Because it is manmade, manufactured stones can replicate the varied look of natural stone, but with looks and colors can then be replicated over and over. This allows franchises to create consistency from location to location. It also allows individual stones to be replaced if they somehow get damaged.
• Biophilia: Biophilic design, which help building occupants connect with nature, is an ongoing trend. Manufactured stone veneer allows designers to marry indoors and out while creating calmer spaces—and do so without the higher cost of real stone.
Image courtesy Westlake Royal Building Products.
• Lighter weight: Manufactured stone veneer’s lighter weight typically doesn’t need special structural support, and it’s suitable for some areas where natural stone is too heavy, such as barrel ceilings.
• Ease of installation: The lighter weight also makes MSV easier to maneuver into interior spaces for installation. Plus, the manufacturing process creates shapes that fit together nicely, so there’s typically less cutting and repositioning required versus the unpredictability of natural stone.
What Commercial Interiors Applications Make Sense for MSV?
Manufactured stone veneer offers design versatility for a range of applications in commercial lobbies, waiting areas, and much more. Try it for accent walls, fireplaces, and columns, and even for wayfinding and signage.
A few examples include:
• Hospitality: Cozy lobbies are welcoming to guests. Use MSV for a feature wall behind the check-in desk or wrapping the front of it, add style to interior columns, or infuse warmth around the fireplace. Franchises can easily replicate looks for familiarity and consistency, helping to create a sense of belonging.
• Healthcare: More and more hospitals are recognizing how warm interiors, versus cold, blank walls, can help in patient healing and well-being. In areas of the building where a sterile environment isn’t needed, such as lobbies and waiting rooms, MSV can easily add a comforting feeling or be a bit reminiscent of home. Stone signage can help draw attention to adjacent wings.
• Schools and libraries: Similarly, the warmth of stone and the biophilia it provides can ease stress in schools and add a calm, quiet appeal to libraries.
• Office lobbies and waiting areas: Manufactured stone’s versatility can strike nearly any vibe—whether you’re outfitting an ultra-modern urban accounting firm or the rustic headquarters of an outdoor store. The possibilities are endless to meet each company’s unique aesthetic for the perfect first impression.
• Restaurants: Add MSV as durable, eye-catching décor behind the bar, in lobbies, and more. This is another application where franchises can benefits from manufactured stone’s consistency.
Image courtesy Westlake Royal Building Products.
No matter the location, application, or design vibe, manufactured stone veneer offers a host of benefits for commercial interiors. Browse our manufacturer members to get started creating the ideal design for your next project.ation of what you can expect to see with the finished project.
Along with considering the style, texture, and color of manufactured stone veneer as it pertains to personal tastes and the home’s décor, it’s also important to weigh how lighting will impact the way the stone will look on the completed project. Lighting can play a great role in how vivid stone colors appear, whether the stone application is on the outside or inside of the home.
Understanding the lighting conditions under which the stone will be viewed will help you identify the stone color that achieves the desired look of the home.
Exterior Stone Applications
Daylight, or more specifically, direct sunlight versus indirect sunlight, affects how we perceive stone color. In the image above, notice how direct sunlight has a dramatic effect on the color of the stone. Direct sunlight can also create dramatic shadow lines, providing increased visual appeal.
As you look at the stone colors in the shaded parts of the home, it begins to take on a completely different look and feel. Colors become less vivid, creating a softer, more subtle look. Shadow lines are reduced and sometimes eliminated.
Interior Stone Applications
Lighting can have a tremendous influence on how we perceive color inside the home as well, as shown in the picture above. Light reflected from painted walls, stained wood, and colored carpeting can provide dramatic color shifts that can make the stone color appear different creating an impressive atmosphere within your home.
When choosing manufactured stone veneer products for exterior or interior purposes, be sure to look at samples within the environments in which they will be installed. This will provide a truer representation of what you can expect to see with the finished project.
How to Properly Care and Maintain Installed Manufactured Stone Veneer
Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a popular choice for both interior and exterior applications, offering the timeless look of natural stone while being more lightweight and cost-effective. Whether you’re a mason professional or a homeowner, proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and durability of the installed veneer.
Toro Stone™ Cream / Canyon Stone
General Care Guidelines for MSV
Regular Inspection
The first step in maintaining MSV is conducting regular inspections. Perform a visual check every few months or at least once per season to ensure there are no obvious cracks, loose pieces, or other signs of wear. This is especially important for exterior applications exposed to the elements.
Key Areas to Inspect:
Weep Holes & Drainage: Make sure any weep holes or drainage systems are clear of debris to prevent water buildup behind the veneer, which could lead to mold, mildew, or structural issues.
Mortar Joints: Look for any gaps or cracks in the mortar, which could allow water infiltration or compromise the veneer’s stability.
Cracks or Chips: Examine individual stone pieces for cracks, chips, or discoloration.
Toro Stone™ Chardonnay / Fieldstone
Cleaning the Veneer
Manufactured stone veneer can accumulate dirt, dust, and environmental debris over time. While it doesn’t require intensive cleaning like some other surfaces, periodic cleaning helps maintain its aesthetic appeal.
Steps for Cleaning:
Gentle Wash: Use a soft-bristle brush and mild soap solution (preferably a pH-balanced cleaner) to scrub the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals or power washing, as they can damage the finish or grout joints.
Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse with clean water after cleaning to remove any soap residue.
Avoid Abrasive Tools: Steel wool or wire brushes can scratch the surface, so use non-abrasive materials for scrubbing.
Stain Removal: For stubborn stains, you can use a stone-safe cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water but always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Prosoco products are recognized by industry professionals to be the most effective, reliable and practical products for final clean down on new construction projects. For more information, please visit www.prosoco.com
Proper Moisture Management
Water is one of the primary culprits when it comes to damage to stone veneers. While MSV is designed to handle some exposure to moisture, it’s important to manage water infiltration properly.
Seal the Surface
Applying a high-quality water repellant or penetrating sealer can help protect the veneer from moisture damage. These sealers reduce water absorption and prevent staining, while still allowing the stone to “breathe.” A sealer should be applied every 2-3 years, depending on the local climate and the type of exposure the stone experiences.
Check Flashing and Drains
Ensure that proper flashing is in place to direct water away from the stone veneer, especially around windows, doors, and joints. If water is allowed to collect behind the veneer, it can cause structural damage or create conditions for mold and mildew growth.
Toro Stone™ Blanc / Reclaimed Brick
Repairs and Touch-Ups
Over time, minor damage to the stone veneer can occur, whether from weathering, accidental impacts, or general wear. The good news is that MSV is relatively easy to repair.
Fixing Cracks and Chips:
Small Chips: For small chips, a simple touch-up with matching grout or mortar may suffice. Use a grout filler that matches the color and texture of the stone.
Larger Cracks: For larger cracks or damaged stones, you may need to replace the individual stone veneer. Carefully remove the damaged stone, clean the area, and install a new piece, ensuring the mortar is properly applied.
Repointing Mortar Joints:
If mortar joints start to deteriorate or crack, it’s essential to repoint them promptly. This helps maintain the structural integrity and aesthetic of the veneer. To repoint, scrape out the old mortar, clean the joints, and apply fresh mortar. Be sure to match the color and texture of the original mortar for a seamless look.
Toro Stone™ Lone Peak / Canyon Stone
Protection During Extreme Weather
In regions with harsh winters or extreme heat, it’s important to take additional precautions to protect the stone veneer.
Winter Care:
Ice and Snow: Avoid using deicing chemicals (such as salt) on or near your stone veneer. These chemicals can cause surface damage over time.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water that infiltrates the stone and freezes can cause it to crack or pop loose. Make sure the surface is sealed properly and ensure that the veneer has good drainage to prevent water buildup.
Summer Care:
Heat Exposure: While manufactured stone is quite resilient to heat, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause surface discoloration or fading. Use shade structures or awnings if the stone is exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods.
Toro Stone™ Intense Red / Vintage Brick
Final Thoughts for Masons and Homeowners
Maintaining manufactured stone veneer isn’t complicated, but it requires a consistent effort to inspect, clean, and repair as needed. Regular inspection and maintenance not only enhance the aesthetic value but also extend the lifespan of the veneer, making it a wise investment for any property.
For masons, ensuring that the installation is done correctly in the first place, with proper flashing, drainage, and joint construction, is key to minimizing future maintenance. Homeowners, meanwhile, can rest easy knowing that with just a little care, their stone veneer will continue to look as beautiful as the day it was installed.
Top 5 Trends in Manufactured Stone Veneer and Thin Brick Design for 2025
As we move into 2025, the design world continues to evolve with new innovations in building materials. Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) and thin brick are leading the charge, offering both aesthetic appeal and durability for a variety of applications. These materials are highly sought after for their versatility, low maintenance, and wide range of styles, making them ideal for both residential and commercial projects. Whether you’re designing interior walls, exterior facades, or landscaping features, these materials are transforming the way we approach architecture.
Here’s a breakdown of the top five trends in manufactured stone veneer and thin brick applications, design, and innovation for 2025.
Toro Stone™ Charcoal / Reclaimed Brick
1. Sustainability: Eco-Friendly Materials and Green Building Practices
Sustainability is a major priority for both designers and homeowners in 2025. Manufactured stone veneer and thin brick are now being produced using eco-friendly materials and methods to reduce environmental impact.
Energy-Efficient Production: Advances in manufacturing techniques now make it possible to create thin brick and MSV products with less energy consumption and reduced waste, making them more sustainable than ever.
Recycled Materials in MSV and Thin Brick: Both manufactured stone veneer and thin brick manufacturers are increasing the use of recycled aggregates and materials such as post-consumer glass, recycled concrete, and natural stone dust. These sustainable building materials reduce the carbon footprint while maintaining the high-quality look and feel of traditional stone and brick.
Low-VOC and Non-Toxic Finishes: As the demand for healthier indoor environments grows, more MSV and thin brick options are being offered with low-VOC or VOC-free finishes. This makes them ideal for residential projects, particularly in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms where air quality is essential.
Toro Stone™ Terra Cotta / Fast Set
2. Larger Formats and Customizable Options for Stone Veneer
In 2025, bigger is better when it comes to both manufactured stone veneer. There is a noticeable shift toward larger panels and customizable formats, particularly in modern and minimalist designs.
Large Format Stone Veneer Panels: Large, seamless panels of manufactured stone veneer are becoming increasingly popular for creating dramatic feature walls, facades, and columns. These oversized panels require fewer joints, resulting in a clean, polished look with less maintenance.
Custom Shapes and Patterns in Thin Brick: Designers are also experimenting with more intricate layouts using thin brick. Custom shapes, such as chevron, herringbone, and vertical stack patterns, are becoming popular for adding texture and visual interest. Thin brick’s flexibility allows for creative expression, enabling designers to integrate modern or rustic elements depending on the project.
Modular Stone Veneer: Modular stone veneer systems are being developed to fit together seamlessly, allowing for customized looks and easy installation. Whether using larger panels or brick-sized pieces, these options provide flexibility without compromising design integrity.
Toro Stone™ Cappuccino / Treble Stone
3. Blended Colors and Mixed Textures: Creating Depth and Interest
A major design trend for both MSV and thin brick in 2025 is the blending of textures and colors to create depth and a layered aesthetic. These materials are becoming more versatile as designers explore new ways to combine different stone and brick finishes.
Textured Thin Brick in Modern Spaces: Thin brick is being used in new ways, especially in contemporary spaces where the focus is on subtle textures and natural finishes. By selecting bricks with a variety of surface textures—ranging from rough to smooth—designers can create feature walls that look sophisticated yet grounded in nature.
Mixed Textures in MSV and Thin Brick: One of the most exciting trends is the combination of different textures within a single installation. Whether pairing smooth, polished stone veneer with rough-hewn stone or contrasting matte and glossy finishes in thin brick, the juxtaposition of materials adds visual complexity and sophistication.
Gradient and Color Transitions: Color gradients and subtle transitions are trending for both MSV and thin brick. Designers are opting for materials that offer soft fades from light to dark, mimicking the natural aging process of stone and brick. Earthy tones, such as warm browns, greys, and terracotta reds, are increasingly popular as they evoke a timeless, organic feel.
Toro Stone™ Blanc / Reclaimed Brick and Hill Country / Cobblestone
4. Indoor-Outdoor Integration: Seamless Transitions with MSV and Thin Brick
The trend for seamless indoor-outdoor living continues to grow, and both manufactured stone veneer and thin brick are key materials in creating these fluid transitions between spaces.
Accent Walls and Feature Fireplaces: Thin brick is being used to create stunning accent walls, often paired with other materials like wood or metal for a contemporary design. MSV’s versatility makes it perfect for framing focal points like fireplaces, creating a striking visual element in both living rooms and outdoor settings.
Outdoor Living Spaces with MSV and Thin Brick: Outdoor kitchens, patios, and fire features are increasingly designed using manufactured stone veneer and thin brick to create visually cohesive spaces that blend with interior design. MSV’s durability against the elements and thin brick’s ability to integrate with various styles make them ideal choices for landscaping features like retaining walls, planters, and garden paths.
Indoor Walls and Exteriors: MSV and thin brick are being used to connect indoor and outdoor spaces with a uniform look. Many homeowners are using MSV on exterior facades, and then repeating similar patterns or textures inside to create a harmonious flow. This is particularly true for luxury residences, where the goal is to create a unified aesthetic across the entire property.
Toro Stone™ Lone Peak / Canyon Stone
5. Handcrafted and Artisanal Designs: Personalized Finishes for MSV and Thin Brick
In 2025, the desire for bespoke, artisanal craftsmanship is influencing the design of both manufactured stone veneer and thin brick. Consumers are seeking more personalized options that offer a distinctive, high-end appeal.
Luxury Finishes with Enhanced Durability: In response to the demand for more durable and long-lasting materials, MSV and thin brick are now available with advanced surface treatments that improve their resistance to stains, scratches, and fading. These luxury finishes allow the materials to maintain their aesthetic appeal for years, even in high-traffic areas.osed to intense sunlight for extended periods.
Handcrafted Thin Brick: While thin brick has traditionally been machine-made, many manufacturers are offering handcrafted versions that provide unique texture and detail. These artisan-crafted bricks have slight variations in color and texture, making them ideal for creating custom-designed feature walls or pathways that feel both authentic and high-end.
Custom Stone Veneer Patterns: Custom-designed MSV is now a growing trend for both commercial and residential properties. Many builders are working with manufacturers to create one-of-a-kind textures and patterns that reflect the personality of the space. From ancient, weathered looks to sleek, modern finishes, MSV can be tailored to suit specific project needs.
Toro Stone™ Rosse / Reclaimed Brick
Conclusion: The Future of Manufactured Stone Veneer and Thin Brick in 2025
The year 2025 promises to be an exciting time for both manufactured stone veneer and thin brick design, with advancements in sustainability, customization, and aesthetic innovation transforming the building materials industry. From eco-friendly production practices and larger, seamless panels to the blending of textures and colors for dynamic wall designs, these materials are offering endless possibilities for both commercial and residential projects.
As architects and designers seek to create unique, high-quality spaces, MSV and thin brick will continue to be the go-to choices for those looking to blend beauty with functionality. Whether used for exterior facades, interior accent walls, or landscaping features, these materials are shaping the future of modern architecture with timeless elegance and unmatched durability.
If you’re planning a project in 2025, embracing these trends will not only enhance the visual appeal of your space but also contribute to a more sustainable and lasting design solution.
As the heart of the home, the kitchen is not only where we prepare and enjoy meals, it’s the rally point for family life—from impromptu discussions to afternoon homework sessions to parties with friends. Yet, so much of what we think of during the kitchen design process is focused solely on function over form. From appliance specifications to laying out an array of storage solutions, we make a flurry of decisions about how the space will flow and where to stage specific items for easy access. We may make a few aesthetic choices for kitchen accents along the way, such as plumbing and lighting fixtures or cabinetry hardware, but even those can be largely based in functionality.
For a space as universal and iconic as the kitchen, is there more we can explore to infuse character into its very walls? Absolutely.
Here are a couple of ways you can enhance your kitchen by making a few quick changes to what’s on the walls:
Embrace a Bold Brick-Splash
One of the most expressive areas in any kitchen is the backsplash. Whether the space is a tight galley kitchen or an expansive layout with a large island and breakfast nook the open wall surface between cabinetry and countertops can represent your greatest opportunity for incorporating eye-catching design into the beating heart of the home.
For those looking to incorporate a touch of texture on the walls, brick remains your best bet when it comes to rustic allure. Particularly now that brick veneer comes in a sophisticated assortment of light and dark color palettes, such as Chalk Dust or Ironside TundraBrick, maybe the time is now to embolden your backsplash with brick.
Open Windows, Open Walls
Windows and accent walls are other options for adding natural texture. Whether your windows are voluminous, tucked in above the sink, or sandwiched between cabinets, a light stone accent wall can help pull off a kitchen transformation.
There are also any number of texture and color combinations that can strike the perfect aesthetic balance for the walls of an eat-in area, breakfast nook, or open shelving display. The most important thing to remember when updating an accent wall is to tie in some of the other color tones you see in the space as a whole. For example, you can use a subtle mix of taupes and bronze highlights to play off a prominent butcher block on the kitchen island, or you can choose a mix of eggshell and ivory hues to reinforce a set of white Shaker-style cabinets.
Some stylistic choices are expressed even better in contrasts, so don’t rule out the power play of white-on-black or gray-on-white.
For many of us, the kitchen represents a wealth of untapped potential when it comes to introducing discussion-worthy design selections to our most intimate and familiar spaces. As the beautiful backdrop for both “everyday” and enduring memories, the kitchen just may be the next place for you to dig in, renovate and refresh.
When it comes to the home exterior, the options available are as varied as the architectural styles themselves. Across the country, our diverse regional climates, cultures, and traditions also influence our homes’ facades—from the rustic charm of a New England stone cottage to adobe-inspired facades of the Southwest. Among the choices, four popular exterior styles stand out: traditional siding, brick, stone veneer, and stucco.
Manufactured stone veneer and stucco are two options often considered together. So which is the better option for your project?
Overview of Manufactured Stone Veneer
Stone veneer mimics the look of authentic stone but is thinner and lighter. Most people choose stone veneer to enhance the curb appeal of their homes since the aesthetic appeal is a gorgeous, timeless, and rustic look. Stone veneer is suitable for houses throughout various regions, especially in areas where natural stone might be too expensive or impractical, and can add a touch of sophistication and charm to nearly any architectural style.
Overview of Stucco
Stucco is a versatile exterior finish made from a combination of cement, sand, and water, serving as a durable and weather-resistant coating for buildings. It can have a smooth or textured surface. Stucco is often found in warm and dry climates, prevalent in the Southwest, where the exterior insulation helps keep homes cool during hot months. It’s also popular in other parts of the country where homeowners are looking for that sleek aesthetic appeal and durability.
So which is better? Choosing stucco or stone veneer will depend on cost, durability, and your personal aesthetic preference.
Cost of Manufactured Stone Veneer vs. Stucco
Regarding cost between the two, stone veneer tends to have a broader price range, ranging from $13 to $22 per square foot for professional installation; stucco typically averages around $14.50 per square foot. That said, it’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on factors like region, house size, and even special finishes. While stucco may appear slightly cheaper on average, stone veneer offers the advantage of mimicking the upscale look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost, which makes it an excellent option for homeowners looking for a sophisticated appearance without breaking the bank. In fact, manufactured stone veneer was found to have a 153% return on investment, according to the 2024 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report
Durability of Manufactured Stone Veneer vs. Stucco
While stucco and manufactured stone veneer both offer impressive durability, stone veneer is superior. Stucco offers fire resistance, color versatility, and a lifespan of more than 50 years with proper care. But stone veneer surpasses stucco in terms of durability, withstanding extreme weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, heavy rain, and snow while remaining resistant to rot, insects, and other damage. Requiring only occasional cleaning and minimal repairs, stone veneer maintains its structural integrity effortlessly. Its ability to endure for generations without extensive maintenance makes stone veneer the perfect choice for homeowners prioritizing durability.
Style & Aesthetics of Manufactured Stone Veneer vs. Stucco
When it comes to style and curb appeal, stucco and stone veneer have distinct advantages. Stone veneer exudes timeless elegance and luxurious aesthetics, perfect for homeowners seeking a classic yet inviting look. Stucco offers design versatility, ranging from modern and sophisticated to simple and rustic, making it adaptable to various architectural styles. For aesthetics, the choice ultimately depends on taste.
Whatever the choice, consider factors like cost, durability, and personal style when making selections. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between aesthetics and practicality for home and lifestyle.
One of the many benefits of using manufactured stone veneer (MSV) versus natural stone is the broad array of color options, no matter your project’s location and geography. But how do you go about choosing manufactured stone colors that best fit the needs of the home’s exterior?
We checked in with Chad Riley, marketing director for stone at Westlake Royal Building Products, to gather a few do’s and don’ts for narrowing down the color options
Tips for Choosing Manufactured Stone Colors
The vast array of color and texture options can be overwhelming, but there are a few easy steps to follow when you’re looking to whittle them down.
Start with the architectural style: Certain colors complement specific architectural and historical styles better than others. For instance, earth tones may be more suitable for a Craftsman-style home, while a modern home might benefit from a monochromatic scheme.
Consider the environment: The landscape and natural surroundings can provide useful cues, helping you select colors that harmonize with the local environment and create a cohesive look.
Look to the roof and other parts of the exterior: Particularly when you’re remodeling the exterior for greater curb appeal, you should prioritize manufactured stone veneer options that will complement the color of the roof and any existing siding or trim.
Use color theory: Basic color theory can help in selecting a palette that’s either analogous for a harmonious effect or complementary for more contrast.
Consider a balance with surrounding homes: Though you want the home to stand out from others around it, it’s also important not to clash.
Factor in lighting conditions: Before deciding, you may want to consider how a color will look in various lighting conditions throughout the day and across the seasons. Don’t just look at samples in the showroom—take them to the home to observe on different sides of the facade at different times of day.
Understand climate: The local climate may play a factor in color choice: Lighter colors may be preferable in hot climates because they reflect heat, while darker colors can be more suitable for cooler climates.
Tools for Choosing Manufactured Stone Colors
Your MSV manufacturer is a great resource for helping to choose colors. Along with leveraging samples, many companies offer a range of tools to help you find the perfect option for your project. These include design guides, ebooks, and pre-designed color blends. There also are an array of manufacturer-provided online visualizer tools that allow you to experiment with different colors on a virtual model of the home.
Ultimately, you want to land on a selection that not only works in context but also feels like an appropriate reflection of the homeowner’s personal taste. From a longevity perspective, this means choosing a color and texture that they’ll be pleased with for years to come while also bearing in mind the future resale value of the home.
Last but not least, don’t let cost be the only deciding factor. Higher-quality products with better colorfastness can be worth the investment.
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.
