What is Manufactured Stone Veneer Made Of?

Manufactured stone veneer is a popular alternative to natural stone, offering the same look and feel at a more affordable price and with easier installation. But have you ever wondered what it's actually made of, and how it holds up over time? Whether you’re tackling a DIY home renovation or planning a professional build, understanding what goes into manufactured stone veneer can help you make smarter choices.

What goes into manufactured stone veneer?

Manufactured stone veneer is typically made from a mixture of Portland cement, lightweight aggregates, and iron oxide pigments. This blend is poured into molds that are cast from real stones, giving each piece the realistic texture and shape of natural stone. Here's a closer look at the core ingredients:

1. Portland cement: acts as the binder, giving the stone its structure and strength.

2. Lightweight aggregates: usually made from pumice, shale, or expanded clay, these materials reduce the overall weight of each stone while still maintaining durability.

3. Iron oxide pigments: provide rich, natural-looking colors that mimic the subtle variations found in real stone.

Once cured, the stones are colored, sometimes hand-finished, and sorted for packaging.

How durable is manufactured stone veneer?

Manufactured stone veneer is highly durable and built to withstand the elements. Most products are tested for resistance to freeze/thaw cycles, UV fading, moisture absorption, and impact and abrasion. That said, proper installation is key. If installed incorrectly, especially without proper drainage or waterproofing, it can be vulnerable to moisture issues. But when applied correctly, manufactured stone can last decades without significant wear.

Is there a warranty?

Most reputable manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 20 years to 50 years. These warranties generally cover defects in materials but don’t apply to damage caused by improper installation or structural issues with the wall it's installed on. Always check the fine print, some warranties are only valid if installed by certified professionals, and others may exclude high-moisture areas or extreme climates.

Read more about our warranty on our post-purchase support page.

Individual stones vs. stone panels

Manufactured stone veneer comes in two main formats, individual stones and stone panels. The majority of manufactured stone veneer available in the market today is an individual stone profile. There are a couple of key differences between individual stones and stone panels:

1. Individual stones: each piece is installed separately, just like real stone. This allows for a more natural, custom layout and tighter joints. Most installers prefer this format for its flexibility and aesthetic.

2. Stone panels: a single stone panel contains multiple stone faces. Stone panels can be quicker to install over large surfaces but often look more uniform and less natural.

Why are individual stones more common?

In most cases, individual stones are easier to handle. While manufactured stone panel systems exist, they’re often heavier as they are much larger than individual stones. This added weight makes panels harder to transport, cut, and install. Plus, they’re more likely to crack or break during handling. For this reason, individual manufactured stones remain the industry standard, especially for vertical applications like walls, fireplaces, or chimneys.

What is manufactured stone veneer made of?

Manufactured stone veneer gives you the look of natural stone without the hefty price tag or back-breaking labor. Made from cement, lightweight aggregates, and pigment, it's strong enough to endure years of weather, wear, and design trends. Whether you’re using individual stones for a custom fireplace or exploring stone panel systems for a large wall, knowing the material's composition and strengths helps you get the best results for your project.

What's next?

Bring your vision to life with our high-quality stone veneer! Shop now to explore our styles or order a sample to feel the texture and see the colors up close. Let’s get your project started!

Have a question?

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For general information and questions please call: (864) 882-8960 Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm (EST) or email: info@mountainviewstone.net we are more than happy to help you.

Or you can submit your questions via our contact us page.

We look forward to working with you on your upcoming project.

The Mountain View Stone Team