When it comes to stone veneers, there are two main types: precast stones and natural stones. Precast stones are made in a factory setting and then transported to the job site. Natural stones, on the other hand, are quarried from the ground and then cut to size at the job site. So which type of stone veneer is better? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each type to find out.

Precast stones are man-made, while natural stone is found in nature.

Man-made precast stones provide the ultimate in convenience due to their consistent sizing and availability. They are a great choice for anyone looking for hassle-free installation and low maintenance requirements. On the other hand, natural stone offers an unrivaled beauty that is impossible to replicate. Natural stone can vary drastically from one piece to another, making it ideal for those seeking a truly unique finish. Both options come with their own benefits and drawbacks, making it important to identify which best suits your needs before any decisions are made.

Precast stones are usually less expensive than natural stone.

Precast stones offer a great value for homeowners looking to save money on upgrade projects like landscaping and wall construction. Using precast stone in Portland or other precast stones is usually less expensive up front than buying natural stone, making it an easy choice for those with budget constraints. 

Not only is precast stone in Portland and other precast stones typically less expensive at the moment, but because precast stones are created from molds of natural stones, their look and texture will add beauty and value to homes as well.

Natural stone is more durable than precast stones.

Natural stone has a clear advantage over precast stone when it comes to durability. This is because natural stone has an intrinsic strength and resilience that cannot be reproduced in the production of precast stones.

 In addition, the unique characteristics of natural stone, such as its density and porosity, contribute to its greater durability compared to precast stones, which have a more uniform composition. Consequently, many experienced professionals swear by natural stone for their homes and landscaping projects due to its surpassing strength and longevity.

Natural stone has more variations in color and texture than precast stones.

Natural stone comes with beautiful variations in color and texture that make it an appealing choice for aesthetic-focused projects. It is a natural product, so there is no limit to the number of unique combinations you can find when sourcing. In comparison, precast stones are available in limited shapes and sizes, which allow for closer control over the look and feel of the product but restrict design options. However, precast stones provide greater budget predictability than natural stone when constructing a project. Overall, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective material with versatile design choices, natural stone is the ideal pick.

Precast stones are easier to install than natural stone.

Precast stones provide an attractive and accessible choice for those interested in integrating stone elements into their landscape design. Compared to natural stone, pre cast stones are far simpler to install and can be used to add a touch of class to any property or commercial venture. Though not quite as sturdy as natural stone, precast versions can easily stand the test of time and the environment, thanks in no small part to modern weatherproofing technology. The ease of installation and cost-effectiveness associated with precast stones make them a viable alternative to more traditional methods of landscaping.

Natural stone is a more sustainable choice than precast stones.

When deciding on materials for a project, sustainability should always be taken into consideration. Natural stone provides a sustainable option in comparison to precast stones as it can be naturally sourced, making it more renewable and economically efficient than its synthetic counterpart. Using natural stone typically results in fewer emissions, less waste production, and lower energy consumption, which are all essential components of creating an environmentally conscious product. 

Additionally, unlike precast stones, natural stone can last hundreds of years with minimal maintenance, giving it a long lifespan and reducing future costs associated with upkeep. Investing in this durable material is therefore extremely beneficial in terms of both economic savings and environmental impact.

When it comes to choosing between precast stones and natural stone, there are a few key factors to consider. Precast stones are man-made, while natural stone is found in nature. Precast stones are usually less expensive than natural stone, but natural stone is more durable. Natural stone also has more variations in color and texture than precast stones. Precast stones are easier to install than natural stone, but natural stone is a more sustainable choice.