A comparison between authentic and manufactured brick and stone veneers reveals that both the brick veneers and the stone veneers have more pros than cons over the genuine article. To begin with, the veneers are considerably less expensive to purchase and install, but they will never appear as authentic as the actual stone or brick themselves.

An Everlast Composite Siding project done with a Stone Veneer front.

For homes located in a region such as eastern New England, true brick and stone may not be advisable. It is porous, so it allows moisture to seep between the stone and mortar, thus potentially causing severe damage to the exterior of the home. The stone and brick veneers are also more durable and more fireproof than the genuine stone or brick materials.

The manufactured product offers better insulation and requires less maintenance. There is no stain or paint required with faux rock veneer siding, and it requires no special foundation or footing, thus eliminating the time and expense of construction as is the case in the natural stone and brick materials.

In harsh climates such as that of eastern New England, siding is secondary in importance only to a roof in fending off the elements of heavy rainstorms, raging winds, and harsh sun. Siding materials manufactured of steel, fiber cement, vinyl, wood composites, and brick or stone veneers all protect the home from inclement weather conditions. These materials can be used creatively by mixing them, such as adding brick to wood shingles or contrasting stone veneer and a fiber cement product resembling cedar shake. In a period home, both the manufactured stone and brick veneer siding can be made to fit in beautifully when replacing damaged authentic stone and brick material.

The stone and brick veneer siding is manufactured using a mixture of natural materials like Portland cement, aggregates that are light in weight, and iron oxide for color. Together these ingredients give integrity to the stone’s natural appearance during the manufacturing process.

Once the mixing is complete, the resulting material is cast into natural stone and brick constructed molds, resulting in a realistic product weighing substantially less than their natural counterparts.

There is a wide variety of stone and brick types, colors and patterns available to suit every style of home from lodge to castle and modest to mansion. Brick and stone veneer can be used along with other natural or manufactured products as well to produce a custom look adding welcome curb appeal and overall value to the home.