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Green Basics

Stone and Synthetic Stone

A Traditional Look That Requires a Drainage Mat and Vapor-Impermeable Sheathing

ABOUT STONE AND SYNTHETIC STONE

Stone veneer that is 8 inches thick weighs 6 tons or more per 100 square feet. Stone veneers must be set on a solid masonry ledge built into the concrete footing, which means more concrete than for an unveneered foundation. Setting stone is labor-intensive, and skilled masons may not be as easy to find as carpenters who can install other types of siding.

Manufactured stone is lightweight concrete that has been molded and colored to look like building stone. It costs one-third to one-half as much as real stone veneer, and it’s light enough to adhere to a wall without any special footing for support.

Manufactured stone is made in a variety of colors and patterns but, unlike natural stone, the coloration is only on the surface, so cut edges must be concealed in the mortar joint.

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3 Comments

  1. Beyhan | | #1

    Stone Walls
    What can you tell me about how to penetrate XPS with ties attached to studs to support true 4-6" stone on the exterior walls?

  2. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #2

    Beyhan Trock
    Beyhan,
    GBA has many details for stone veneer; if you become a GBA subscriber, you'll have access to all of these details in our detail library. Here is a link to an example:

    https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/cad/detail/flanged-window-sill-exterior-foam-sheathing-stone-veneer-siding

    Many manufacturers sell brick ties or stone veneer ties designed for walls sheathed with rigid foam. Google "brick ties for rigid foam" and you'll discover these manufacturers. Here are some links:

    http://www.ctpanchors.com/ctp-16.aspx

    http://rodenhouse-inc.com/products/pos-tie-veneer-anchoring-system/

  3. hallie17 | | #3

    It looks like the link for the NAHB article needs to be revised. I think this is the document you referred to https://benjaminobdyke.com/uploads/resources/Improving_Drainage_and_Drying_Features_in_Certain_Conditions_Rainscreen_Designs_for_Absorptive_Claddings.pdf

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