Stone is a popular choice for indoor and outdoor living improvements, but you need to know the difference between real and faux stone. The difference between real stone and faux stone is simple: real stone is quarried with nothing else added, while a faux or veneer stone is artificial, baked from cement, aggregates and iron oxides to give it that stone feel. Using either for your home improvement project comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Lifestyle Landscapes, Inc. discusses the differences.

Pros of Using Real Stone:

Long Life Span

Due to its lack of artificial chemicals, real stone tends to last longer than veneer stone, thus eliminating the need for repeated and demanding maintenance.

Compliments Concrete and Timber

Real stone can match well with other housing materials such as concrete and timber thanks to its obvious natural beauty and longevity.

Increased Home Value

Depending on its installation and how well it enhances your home’s looks, real stone can increase the value and curb appeal of your property. Even if you have no intention to put your house on the market, the knowledge that you used real stone gives you a sense of pride.

Easy to Maintain

Real stone is easier to maintain compared to veneer stone as it is more resistant to weather or physical damage.

Cons of Using Real Stone:

Labor-Intensive

While real stone has its clear advantages, unfortunately, it can be quite labor intensive to install. You may find yourself needing to change your patio design plans if it’s really that difficult. For this job, you’re better off working with a professional like Lifestyle Landscapes, Inc.

Pricier

Due to the fact that it’s quarried straight from the earth, real stone can be a bit more expensive to buy than faux stone, though you do get what you pay for.

Not DIY-friendly

Real stone is not a good choice if you’re planning to do this project yourself. To enjoy the benefits of real stone, contact landscape design experts to do the installation. Lifestyle Landscapes, Inc. is the company to trust for such a project.

Pros of Using Faux Stone:

Design Variety

Faux stone is made of cement, so you have more options when it comes to design.

Lightweight

This type of stone is lightweight, making it easier to install on masonry, wood or metal structures, as it doesn’t add too much load.

Easy Application

Faux stone is easier to install than the real thing, so it’s popular among DIY enthusiasts.

Cons of Using Faux Stone:

Poor Durability

Compared to real stone, faux stone is more susceptible to weather and physical damage, making maintenance necessary.

Certain Elements Will Reduce Aesthetics

Exposure to the elements and some chemicals can stain the surface and result in faux stone’s discoloration or scarring.

Limited Application

Compared to real stone, which can be used for more applications in your home, faux stone can’t be used in certain areas, such as fireplaces.

To learn more about our services in patio design and landscaping, call Lifestyle Landscapes, Inc. at (206) 621-2626 or fill out our contact form. We can help you decide on the type of stone that’s best for your needs. We serve Seattle, WA, and other nearby areas.