Stone veneer siding can create a distinctly upscale feel to your home’s exterior. It gives your house a high-end look that prospective home buyers will love.
Curb Appeal
Stone has long been a staple material for some of the most iconic architecture in the world, and it can bring similar elegance to your home’s exterior. According to a recent Zonda Media report, manufactured stone veneers are one of the top renovation options for homeowners looking to improve their property value.
A well-designed stone veneer siding makeover can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal, making it easier to stand out. You can use it as a complete façade or to accent certain architectural features, such as dormers or front porch columns.
In addition to increasing your home’s visual appeal, stone veneer siding will help it retain its value over time. Potential buyers will recognize the sophistication of your home’s design and be more willing to pay top dollar for it. That’s because curb appeal has a major impact on the overall resale value of your house.
Durability
Unlike wood siding, which can be damaged by rain and moisture, stone veneers are made to resist both. They can withstand weather conditions and protect your home from pests like carpenter ants and woodpeckers.
The biggest drawback of stone veneer siding is that it can leak into your home’s interior walls if not installed properly, leading to mold and wood rot. This can be caused by a need for a proper moisture barrier underneath the veneers or by contractors prioritizing looks over function, leaving gaps around windows and doors where water can accumulate.
Avoid these problems by hiring a professional siding contractor to install your stone veneers and planning your project during the off-season to get it done more quickly and save on hourly labor costs. Also, plan to clear the area surrounding your home for the siding installation as much as possible, including trimming trees and shrubs, moving cars out of the way, and storing outdoor furniture.
Energy Efficiency
Stone veneer siding is a great insulator, preventing drafts from entering your home. It also helps reduce energy costs by protecting the walls from heat and cold. This will help lower your utilities and make your home more comfortable during all seasons.
Manufactured stone veneer, or faux stone siding, is a popular alternative to natural stone. It is made of a concrete mix cast into molds of various stones to recreate the appearance of real stone. It is much cheaper than natural stone and provides a similar look.
In addition to material costs, installing stone veneer will depend on your location and contractor experience. Typically, you can expect to pay between $2-$4 per square foot for labor. In most cases, getting several quotes from reputable contractors is best to ensure you get the best price. This will help you avoid unexpected costs and delays.
Maintenance
Both natural and manufactured stone veneer are low-maintenance options that add to the organic look of a home. Homeowners prioritizing durability and low-maintenance siding are a good fit for these products.
Unlike wood or vinyl, stone veneer doesn’t need staining or other treatments to maintain its appearance. Regular cleaning with a hose or power washer is all that’s needed to keep it looking fresh.
If you plan to replace the existing siding with stone veneer, you can expect additional costs to cover removing the old materials and any needed repairs or replacements. The costs will also depend on the size of your project and whether any structural walls are being affected.
Typically, contractors must remove the existing underlayment and drywall before installing the new stone veneer. This is a necessary step to ensure that the underlayment and the underlying structure of the wall can support the weight of the stone veneer.
