Stone Veneer Siding & Installation

Why Choose Stone Veneer for Your Home

Stone veneer offers the timeless beauty of natural stone without the weight, cost, or installation challenges of full-thickness stone. Modern manufactured stone veneer is virtually indistinguishable from natural stone to the untrained eye. It provides the same visual impact and curb appeal while offering practical advantages that make it ideal for residential applications. You get the look you want at a fraction of the weight and cost of traditional stone masonry.

In Shreveport, LA, stone veneer performs exceptionally well in our climate. It resists moisture, does not rot or warp like wood siding, and stands up to our humid summers and occasional cold snaps. Quality stone veneer products come with warranties of 50 years or more, and properly installed veneer often lasts the lifetime of your home with virtually no maintenance. Unlike vinyl or fiber cement siding that can fade, crack, or need replacement, stone veneer maintains its appearance indefinitely.

Stone veneer dramatically increases your home's value and market appeal. Real estate professionals tell us that stone exteriors consistently command premium prices and sell faster than homes with standard siding. Stone veneer transforms builder-grade houses into custom homes with distinctive character. Whether you cover your entire exterior or add stone accents to key areas like entries, columns, or gables, the impact on your home's appearance is remarkable. Stone veneer also offers excellent insulation properties, helping reduce energy costs while creating a more comfortable interior environment.

Natural Stone vs. Manufactured Veneer

When planning your stone veneer project, you will choose between natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. Both offer advantages depending on your preferences, budget, and project requirements.

Natural Stone Veneer

Natural stone veneer is real stone that has been cut into thin slices for wall installation. It offers authentic color variation and texture that comes only from genuine stone formed over millions of years. Popular natural stone options include slate, quartzite, limestone, and sandstone. Each piece is unique, creating one-of-a-kind installations. Natural stone veneer typically costs more than manufactured options and weighs more, requiring stronger structural support. However, for homeowners who want authentic stone and have the budget, natural veneer provides unmatched beauty and the satisfaction of using genuine materials.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Manufactured stone veneer, also called cultured stone or faux stone, is made from concrete that has been molded and colored to replicate natural stone. Modern manufacturing techniques create remarkably realistic products that fool even experienced eyes. Top brands like Eldorado Stone and Cultured Stone offer hundreds of styles replicating everything from weathered fieldstone to cut ashlar. Manufactured veneer weighs about one-third as much as natural stone, making it suitable for more applications without structural reinforcement. It also costs less and installs faster while providing consistent sizing that simplifies installation.

Popular Stone Veneer Styles

Stone veneer comes in numerous styles to match any architectural preference. Ledgestone features horizontal layers with varying depths, creating dramatic shadow lines and contemporary appeal. Fieldstone replicates rounded, weathered stones for rustic charm. River rock offers smooth, tumbled appearance perfect for casual designs. Stacked stone provides clean, linear patterns ideal for modern homes. Ashlar mimics cut and dressed stone blocks for formal elegance. During your consultation, we show you samples and discuss which styles complement your home's architecture and your personal taste.

Our Professional Installation Process

Proper stone veneer installation requires specialized knowledge and careful attention to detail. Poor installation leads to water damage, veneer failure, and expensive repairs. Here is how we ensure your stone veneer performs beautifully for decades.

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  Surface preparation: Stone veneer can be installed over properly prepared wood sheathing, concrete, brick, or other solid substrates. We ensure surfaces are clean, sound, and properly waterproofed. We install weather-resistant barriers and metal lath that provides mechanical bonding for the mortar.
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  Moisture management: Proper water management is critical for long-term performance. We install flashing at all horizontal transitions, create weep holes for drainage, and ensure the wall assembly can shed water and dry if moisture enters. This prevents the rot and mold problems that plague improperly installed veneer.
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  Mortar application: We apply mortar to both the wall and the back of each stone piece for maximum adhesion. This technique, called back-buttering, ensures complete contact and prevents hollow spots that allow water accumulation. We use mortar specifically formulated for stone veneer installation.
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  Strategic stone placement: We carefully select and position stones to create natural-looking patterns without obvious repetition. We vary stone sizes, blend colors, and maintain appropriate joint spacing. Corner pieces receive special attention to create clean, finished edges.
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  Joint treatment: Depending on your chosen style, we either grout joints or leave them dry-stacked. Grouted joints require careful tooling to achieve the desired profile and ensure weather resistance. We clean excess mortar promptly to prevent staining.
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  Sealing and protection: After installation, we apply breathable sealers when appropriate. Sealers protect against staining and moisture while allowing water vapor to escape. This protection extends the life of your installation and simplifies maintenance.

We follow manufacturer specifications and building code requirements for every installation. Our crews receive ongoing training in the latest installation techniques and products. This expertise ensures your stone veneer not only looks spectacular but also performs flawlessly in Louisiana's challenging climate. Many homeowners combine stone veneer with other masonry elements to create cohesive exterior designs that enhance curb appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stone Veneer