When someone says manufactured stone or cultured stone, what comes to mind? Many people imagine the old vinyl replicas that were used on house fronts some 25 years ago. You could tell from a mile down the road that the stone was fake and of poor quality. Things have changed with technology since then and today’s manufactured stone can fool even the most experienced stonemason without close examination.
The difference between this stone and real stone is that manufactured stone is synthetic in nature even though it is made from natural stone chips. Suspended in a binder such as polyester, epoxy resins, or cement, the resemblance is uncanny. The main difference in appearance is the weight of cultured stone which is up to 75% lighter than real stone. The most popular type of stone products is made from quartz using large or small stone pieces to create different displays.
Manufacturers make manufactured stone, usually with a specific focus on setting. For example, some companies may make only exterior manufactured stone for use as house cladding or outdoor fireplaces. While the product can also be used indoors, the main market is exterior design, where molds are used to make nature-relevant stone pieces. Some businesses may incorporate cultured stone marketing into an existing business, such as bathroom remodeling. Creating marble countertops, shower walls, and even bathtubs can be your forte. Flooring dealers can offer a variety of hard surface alternatives in slate, granite and marble-look stone at a much lower cost than real stone.
The selection of manufactured stone is limitless. Almost any type of stone can be found for designs inside or outside the home. Due to the structure of the material, stone cladding is durable and maintenance-free. There is no chipping, cracking or staining from sun exposure or liquid spills like those found in natural stone. The possible design options are growing every day and many architects and designers are now taking a hard look at this relevant new product that has been around for decades.
Unlike faux stone years ago that didn’t have the technology to make such a strong product, cultured stone is also very safe. Because it is created from natural stone and proven binders, manufactured stone is non-combustible and does not produce smoke or have combustible properties. This is good news for homeowners concerned about the safety of new materials on the market.
Realistic, natural, easy to work with and inexpensive are the attributes of manufactured stone. There are many good manufacturers who have spent years perfecting this material and will stand behind their products by giving you incredible warranties. Investigate this new way to bring a weathered home to life with manufactured stone that looks and feels just like the real thing, only better in many ways.
