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Stone Veneer Siding & Installation

Transform your home exterior with the timeless beauty of stone at a fraction of the cost.

Professional stone veneer siding installation on Rochester, MN home exterior

Why Stone Veneer is Perfect for Rochester Homes

Stone veneer gives you the stunning look of natural stone without the weight, cost, or installation challenges of full-thickness stone. Modern manufactured stone veneer looks remarkably realistic and comes in dozens of styles, colors, and textures. Whether you want the rustic charm of fieldstone, the clean lines of stacked ledgestone, or the elegance of cut limestone, we can create the exact look you envision for your Rochester home.

Stone veneer works on virtually any exterior surface. We install it over wood framing, concrete block, poured concrete, and even existing siding after proper preparation. You can cover your entire home, add accent walls, highlight architectural features, or create dramatic entrances. Popular applications include front facades, chimneys, columns, foundation walls, and outdoor living areas. The design possibilities are nearly endless.

Unlike painted siding that needs repainting every few years, stone veneer is essentially maintenance-free. It will not rot, warp, or fade. It handles Minnesota winters without cracking or deteriorating. It adds real insulation value to your walls and improves energy efficiency. Plus, it dramatically increases your home curb appeal and resale value. Real estate professionals consistently tell us that homes with stone exteriors sell faster and for more money than homes with plain siding.

Natural vs. Manufactured Stone Veneer

When choosing stone veneer, you have two main options: natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. Both create beautiful results, but they have different characteristics and price points. Here is what you need to know:

Natural Stone Veneer

Natural stone veneer is real stone that has been cut thin for wall application. It provides authentic color variation and texture that only nature can create. Each piece is unique. Common types include limestone, sandstone, quartzite, and slate. Natural stone costs more than manufactured alternatives and requires more skill to install because pieces are irregular. However, it offers unmatched authenticity for homeowners who want genuine stone.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Manufactured stone veneer (also called cultured stone or faux stone) is made from concrete mixed with pigments and aggregates. It is molded from real stone to capture authentic textures and patterns. Modern manufactured stone is virtually indistinguishable from natural stone at normal viewing distances. It costs significantly less, weighs less, and installs faster than natural stone.

We work primarily with premium brands like Cultured Stone, Eldorado Stone, and Coronado Stone. These manufacturers produce incredibly realistic products with extensive warranties. Their stones are engineered specifically for harsh climates like ours, so they resist freeze-thaw damage and maintain their appearance for decades.

Popular Stone Styles

  • Ledgestone: Horizontal rectangular stones stacked in a linear pattern. Creates a contemporary, clean look.
  • Fieldstone: Rounded, irregular stones that mimic stones gathered from fields. Provides a rustic, natural appearance.
  • River Rock: Smooth, rounded stones in various sizes. Perfect for creating water-inspired designs.
  • Ashlar: Cut rectangular stones laid in a formal pattern. Gives an upscale, traditional look.
  • Stacked Stone: Thin strips of stone stacked tightly without visible mortar joints. Very popular for modern homes.

During your consultation, we show you samples and photos of installed projects. We discuss which styles complement your home architecture and stay within your budget. Our experience helps you choose options that you will love for years to come.

Professional Installation That Lasts

Proper installation is critical for stone veneer performance and appearance. We see many failed DIY projects and shoddy contractor work where water gets behind the stone and causes expensive damage. We follow strict installation standards that ensure your stone veneer looks beautiful and performs flawlessly for decades.

First, we prepare the wall surface. For new construction, we install weather-resistant barriers and metal lath. For existing homes, we sometimes need to remove siding and add proper substrates. We pay special attention to windows, doors, and other penetrations where water could enter. Flashing and weep screeds allow any moisture to escape rather than getting trapped behind the stone.

Next, we apply a scratch coat of mortar over the lath and let it cure. This provides a solid base for the stone. We then mix mortar to the proper consistency and apply it to both the wall and the back of each stone piece. We press stones firmly into place, ensuring full coverage and strong bonding. We vary stone sizes, colors, and orientations to create natural-looking patterns.

For dry-stack styles without visible mortar joints, we fit stones tightly together. For traditional installations, we tool mortar joints to the desired depth and finish. All joints get sealed to prevent water infiltration. We clean excess mortar from stone faces before it hardens. The final step is applying sealers when appropriate to protect against stains and moisture.

Most stone veneer projects take one to two weeks depending on the area covered and complexity. We work efficiently while maintaining the quality standards that have built our reputation. We protect your landscaping, clean up thoroughly each day, and leave you with a beautiful finished product. The investment you make in professional installation pays off in performance and longevity. Similar attention to detail goes into all our masonry work, from chimney repairs to custom patios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Upgrade Your Home Exterior?

Let us show you how stone veneer can transform your home appearance. Call today for your free consultation and estimate.

(507) 738-1309