Is Cultured Stone Cheaper Than Natural Stone?
Lennox Masonry - Cultured Stone Fireplace
The short answer: No! And here’s why:
As a Masonry Contractor in Victoria, B.C., I have the pleasure of working mainly with Thin Stone Veneer and Full Stone Veneer, with the odd Cultured Stone project, though I typically try to sway the Homeowner over to the natural side by citing the following reasons: 1. When it comes to the installation of Cultured Stone Veneer, the process is no different than that of applying Thin Stone Veneer. Thus, the labor costs, at least for myself and several other Stone Masons that I can speak for, are typically the same. 2. Cultured Stone is an unquestionably inferior product in every aspect, even when it comes to savings. Natural Stone provides greater insulation, less maintenance, can withstand pressure washing, is able to be acid-washed, retains less moisture, is eco-friendly, and is well equipped to handle our infamous freeze/thaw cycles. Also, its surface and natural beauty, will not fade over time, unlike Cultured Stone.
3. The initial cost of Thin Stone Veneer, when locally quarried and distributed, can, not only compete with the cost of Cultured Stone but, in some cases, cost less. However, the majority of Natural Stone products typically cost, on average, a dollar or two more per square foot/linear foot, than Cultured products. But when we weigh the initial cost difference, next to the aforementioned benefits of Thin Stone, well, the savings become apparent through the long-term investment of Natural Stone.
Lennox Masonry - Natural Stone Fireplace (Pangea)
Are you located on Vancouver Island, the Victoria Area, or even on the surrounding Gulf Islands and in need of a Professional Stone Mason for your next project? With years of experience in the field of Masonry, Lennox Masonry is well equipped to handle assess and address your specific needs.
Please, Give Us A Call At: 778-968-6574
As always, if you have any questions, please, comment below or write to us at sean@lennoxmasonry.com
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Sean Lennox,
Lennox Masonry, Masonry Contractor, Stone Mason, Victoria, B.C.
Lennox Masonry - Natural Stone Pillars (Jordan River, River Rock)
