Natural stone is one of the oldest and most beautiful building materials, used for everything from fences to fireplaces and exterior siding but it is also one of the most expensive building products. It is no wonder, therefore, that manufactured stone veneer (also called faux stone or cast stone) has become an appealing alternative to natural stone. Architectural stone veneer can be used to greatly enhance the look and feel of any project.

Coronado Stone Products® is the oldest manufacturer of stone veneer products in the industry. The company has been developing and manufacturing stone veneer since 1959. Manufacturing plants operate in South Carolina, Texas, Colorado, Arizona, and Lodi and Fontana in California. Fifty different varieties of manufactured stone veneer are shipped around the world.

Coronado Stone Products® offers a variety of manufactured stone veneer, thin brick, tile and precast products. Manufactured stone or stone veneer is a product that captures the look and feel of natural stone but is lighter and less expensive. It is typically made from a mixture of concrete, natural lightweight aggregates and iron oxide pigments, cast in molds from hand-selected natural stone, using a process which captures all the beautiful textures of the natural stone. The end product is convincingly realistic, so much so that it is difficult to tell the difference between the artificial stone and natural stone. In addition to being a less expensive material, manufactured stone veneers are also more affordable in terms of labor costs to install, compared to natural stone.

Artificial stone veneer siding is long-lasting and durable. Manufacturers' warranties range from 20 to 75 years. If properly installed, faux stone veneer siding is maintenance-free and more fire-resistant than wood or vinyl siding and is also a very versatile building product considering it is lighter weight allowing it to be used in applications that cannot support the weight of natural stone.

With a wide range of interior and exterior applications, manufactured stone veneer can significantly enhance a home's appearance and provide a solid return on investment. Remodeling Magazine's 2020 Cost vs. Value Report indicates a 95.6% return on investment upon resale for replacing vinyl siding on a home facade with manufactured stone veneer. https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2020/

As with most building products, proper installation is vital. Moisture problems can occur if stone veneer siding is not installed correctly, and water becomes trapped behind the veneer. Common issues include improper backing materials, missing flashings, and insufficient sealant caulking around windows, doors, vents, and other cut-outs.

If you want to update your current home's curb appeal with faux stone, learn more about common issues with flashing, water retention, and joint sealants around windows, doors, and vents so you can discuss this with your contractor. The knowledgeable sales representatives at one of Stockdale Tile and Flooring Center's three stores, located in Tehachapi, Bakersfield and Visalia, can also assist with educating you on the most effective applications for stone veneer and correct installation guidelines.

The Tehachapi Stockdale Tile and Flooring Center is located at 20700 South Street; call (661) 771-7229. Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon.