Where veneer shows up in OC homes
- Front facades and wainscots: stone on the lower third of the house is a hallmark of Tuscan, Craftsman and Spanish remodels.
- Outdoor kitchens and BBQ islands: a stone base with a granite, quartzite or concrete counter.
- Fireplaces and fire features, inside and out.
- Retaining and seat walls: block walls faced in stone. See retaining walls.
- Columns, pilasters and mailbox pillars.
Natural thin veneer vs. manufactured stone
| Factor | Natural thin veneer | Manufactured stone |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Real stone sawn ~1 in thick | Cast lightweight concrete |
| Color | Inherent; doesn't fade | Pigmented; can fade in strong UV |
| Weight | Light enough for most walls | Lighter |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Chips | Show stone | Show concrete |
| Corners | Sawn L-shaped corner pieces | Molded corners |
Popular styles
Ledgestone / stacked
Thin horizontal strips, often as interlocking panels. Modern, shadowy texture, and the top seller for fireplaces and BBQ islands.
Ashlar
Rectangular stones in random sizes with mortar joints. Suits Craftsman, Mission and Spanish homes.
Fieldstone / mosaic
Irregular shapes for a rustic, hand-built feel. Works for ranch homes and garden walls.
Buying and budgeting tips
- Measure flats (sq ft) and corners (linear ft) separately. Corner pieces cost more.
- Pick veneer and wall cap/counter together so tones relate.
- Near the coast, choose low-absorption stone and a breathable sealer to limit salt and efflorescence.
- Ask installers whether they follow the manufacturer's or the industry installation guide for adhered veneer, and what's behind the stone.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between natural thin veneer and manufactured stone?
Natural thin veneer is real stone sawn to about 1 in thick, so its color is the stone itself. Manufactured (cultured) stone is lightweight cast concrete with colored pigment, which is cheaper and lighter but can fade and shows concrete if chipped.
Can stone veneer go over stucco?
Sometimes, but it's not as simple as gluing stone to stucco. The wall needs a proper water-resistive barrier, lath and scratch coat, and a weep screed at the base. Installing over existing stucco without addressing moisture can trap water. Have an experienced mason evaluate the wall.
