When deciding on the best exterior finish for your home, there are a number of things to consider: durability, protection from the elements, fire resistance, aesthetics. With a number of different finishes to choose from, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. A lot of homeowners ask us about the difference between stucco vs stone, here’s what we tell them.
Stone Veneer vs Stucco
Stone veneer is a decorative, protective building material manufactured to replicate the look of natural stone. There are two types of stone veneer: natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. Natural stone veneer is made from real stone that is cut to a consistent thickness and weight for use as a veneer. Manufactured stone veneer is made by pouring a lightweight concrete mix into forms of different style. It is then painted with a coloring process which makes it resemble real stone.
Some of the advantages of stone veneer are:
- cost (cost of material, cost of application, waste cost)
- weight (ease and cost of application)
- variety of designs and colors
Stucco is a decorative coating for exterior walls. A cement plaster that is applied wet and hardens to a strong finish, it can be used to cover less attractive construction materials such as cinder block.
Some of the advantages of stucco are:
- durability
- fire retardant
- requires less energy to keep home warm or cool
However, both stone veneer and stucco can cause problems for the homeowner if not installed or cared for properly.
The Problem They Both Share
While most people do not realize it, the application process for stone veneer and stucco is very similar. Therefore, both stone veneer and stucco can be vulnerable to moisture problems.
Water intrusion becomes an issue if the stone veneer or stucco is not sealed properly. Water and moisture can make their way behind the thin stone or stucco wall. Once trapped behind the wall, the moisture can’t drain or dry. The trapped moisture results in mold and rot, severely damaging wooden studs and wall sheathing underneath.
When you first spot signs of mold or water damage to the exterior of your home, it’s time to call in the experts.
Having Stone Veneer Problems? Call Ai Restoration!
Ai Restoration is a stucco and stone veneer repair company outside of Philadelphia. We know siding materials inside and out! Ai Restoration has vast knowledge in a variety of exterior building materials. And our installation system well exceeds the industry standards.
