Stone Veneer Installation Cost and Easy Budget Tips
Stone has long been a symbol of beauty and power, giving dwellings a timeless charm. But installing natural stone is costly, time-consuming, and heavy. Stone veneer fills that need, providing the same opulent appearance at a fraction of the price and weight.
Before beginning, it’s important to know how much stone veneer installation will cost if you’re thinking about renovating an old wall or adding a new outside finish. Everything you need to know will be covered in this guide, including how much stone veneer costs, what kinds of stone veneer are available, how to hire stone veneer contractors, how to install stone veneer over brick, and how much stone veneer costs compared to brick.
Stone veneer – What Is It?
In order to replicate the appearance of full stone, a thin coating of artificial or natural stone veneer is put on exterior facades, fireplaces, and walls. It has a comparable aesthetic appeal to traditional stone masonry but is far lighter and less expensive.
Stone Veneer Types
Manufactured (Cultured) Stone Veneer: lightweight and reasonably priced, made from pigments and concrete.
Thin pieces of genuine stone make up natural stone veneer, which is more costly but incredibly authentic and long-lasting.
The Mean Price of Stone Veneer Installation
A number of variables, including material type, area size, labor costs, and installation technique, affect how much stone veneer costs to install. This is a broad summary:
Cost per square foot
The cost of manufactured stone veneer ranges from $10 to $25 per square foot, including labor.
Natural stone veneer costs between $25 and $50 per square foot, including labor and supplies.
Average Project Expenses
- $100–$2,500 for a small accent wall (100 square feet)
- 500–1,000 square feet of exterior siding: $7,500–$30,000
- surround for a fireplace: $2,000 to $5,000
To compare prices and prevent overspending, get several quotes from nearby stone veneer contractors.
Important Elements That Impact the Price of Installing Stone Veneers
Selection of Materials
Because of the expense of quarrying, cutting, and shipping, natural stone is more expensive. Mass-produced, lighter, and less expensive to install is manufactured stone.
Rates of Labor
The cost of labor varies by location. The hourly rate for skilled masons is usually between $40 and $60. More time could be needed for intricate patterns or corners.
Preparing the Surface
The overall cost may increase if the wall requires cleaning, waterproofing, or framing. It is frequently necessary to lay cement backer board before installing stone veneer over wood or drywall.
Accessibility and Location
Scaffolding or specialized equipment may be needed for tight places, higher walls, or chimneys, which would raise labor expenses.
Covering Brick with Stone Veneer
You may be wondering whether stone veneer can be applied over brick if you already have a brick wall. The good news is that you can, and it may end up being less expensive than demolishing and starting over.
Advantages
- Prevent the expenses of demolition
- solid foundation for connecting
improves curb attractiveness without requiring significant structural adjustments
Overview of the Process
- The brick surface should be cleaned and roughened.
- If necessary, use a metal lath and mortar scratch coat.
- Install the stone veneer pieces with mortar.
- Joints should be grouted and sealed.
Pro Tip: Always assess the condition of the brick wall first. Bricks that are moist or crumbling need to be fixed before veneer is applied.
Installing Stone Veneer Siding
One of the most common improvements for increasing curb appeal and resale value is installing stone veneer cladding on the outside of your house.
Typical Locations for Installation
- Front doors or entrances
- Columns and chimneys
- Accent walls and garage surrounds
Considerations for Siding Installation
- requires metal lath on framed walls and a weather-resistant barrier.
- Weep screed is required for foundation drainage.
- Local building codes must be followed in order to manage moisture.
Although competent do-it-yourselfers can install stone veneer siding, engaging experienced stone veneer contractors guarantees adequate waterproofing and long-term durability.
Cost of Brick vs. Stone Veneer
Before deciding on an external finish, many homeowners weigh the costs of brick and stone veneer. This is how they compare:
Feature: Traditional Brick with Stone Veneer
The cost of materials is $6–$15 per square foot, while the cost of installation is $10–$25 per square foot. $15 to $30 per square foot
Lightweight in weight Significant labor challenges Moderate High upkeep Quite Dim Appearance incredibly adaptable Traditional and classic
Because stone veneer is easier to handle, installs more quickly, and requires less structural support, it is frequently less expensive overall, even though brick may occasionally be less expensive per square foot.
Selecting Qualified Stone Veneer Installers
The secret to a stunning, long-lasting installation is choosing the appropriate stone veneer contractors. Water damage, loose stones, and future expensive repairs might result from poor craftsmanship.
Things to Watch Out for
- Professionals with insurance and licenses
- Portfolio of prior veneer projects
- Good feedback and local references
- Clear pricing and written estimations
Inquiries to Make
- Are you an expert in installing stone veneer siding?
- What kind of guarantee do you provide for your work?
- How are you going to manage the moisture below the veneer?
Money-Saving Advice for Installing Stone Veneers
- Use synthetic stone instead of natural stone since it is lighter, less expensive, and easier to install.
- Restrict coverage by only applying veneer to locations that are very visible, such as columns or entryways.
- Obtain three or more quotes: Contractors’ prices can differ greatly from one another.
- Plan for off-peak times: Winter and early spring might occasionally have cheaper labor prices.
Conclusion: Use Stone Veneer to Upgrade Your House
Stone veneer is a desirable addition for both interiors and exteriors because it provides the beauty of genuine stone at a fraction of the price. You may confidently renovate your house by knowing how much stone veneer installation costs, investigating the possibility of using stone veneer instead of brick, comparing the costs of stone veneer and brick, and employing qualified stone veneer professionals.