In this post I am going to discuss the differences between thin cut stone and cultured stone veneer. Many people wonder what the difference is between the two; well the simple truth is that they are both veneers that give you the natural look of stone on a fireplace, accent wall or exterior  application.

Firstly, thin cut stone veneer is real compared to cultured or “faux stone” which is a mixture of cement and dyes. Secondly, both can be installed for significantly less cost than full bed stone. The images of fireplaces featured below contain one to the left featuring real thin stone veneer by Thincut Natural Stone Veneers and the one to the right featuring man made or “cultured stone” veneer from Canyon Stone. To read about the benefits of adding a stone veneer fireplace to your home visit our blog on the 4 reasons to install a cultured stone fireplace here.

Thin cut stone veneer fireplace with vertical stone feature.
Thin cut stone veneer fireplace with vertical stone feature.
Stone veneer by Canyon Stone on wood burning fireplace.
Stone veneer by Canyon Stone on wood burning fireplace.

Benefits of Real Thin Cut stone v

Both of the above stone fireplaces feature stone veneer; only the left one contains real stone. There are many benefits to thin cut stone:

  • Real stone veneer is more durable
  • Real stone veneer has uniform colouration throughout and will not show chips or scratches
  • It does not need any costly foundation work or support ledge that requires anchoring. Thin cut stone adheres directly to the wall surface
  • It will not fade or discolour over time
  • Use thin cut stone on Interior and exterior projects
Granite stone veneer fireplace in Haliburton
Granite stone veneer fireplace in Haliburto

Benefits of manufactured stone veneer

Applied professionally it is very difficult to distinguish between thin cut veneer and cultured stone. The advantages of cultured stone are:

 

  • Apply cultured stone on interior and exterior projects
  • It comes in a very wide variety of shapes and colours
  • Cultured stone is usually less expensive to purchase and install
  • Consistency in colour can make for a better looking finished product
  • It does not need any costly foundation work or support ledge that requires anchoring. It adheres directly to the wall.
A beautiful application of cultured stone with six inch granite hearth pieces.
Cultured stone installation on fireplace with six inch thick Parry Sound granite hearth pieces.

Finally, whether thin stone veneer or cultured stone is chosen, the stunning look of stone creates a lasting impression. We at the Cultured Stoners and Design would love the opportunity to help you design and build your next renovation project with one of these excellent products. For a free quote or consultation call 705 794-6759 or email us at jim@culturedstoners.com.