Stone wall cladding is a great way to add style and character to your property. It is also an excellent insulator, which can help reduce your energy bills. Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an existing one, this decorative material can be a great addition to your design.
There are two main methods for installing stone walls. One is the wet method, which is cheaper than the dry method. However, you will need an experienced engineer to do the job properly. This is especially true when using natural stone. You will also need to make sure that the substrate is structurally sound. Some materials that can be used as a suitable base include brickwork, blockwork, concrete and slate.
Stone is a very durable and hard material. Because of this, you will find that your cladding will last for many years. The best stone for wall cladding is granite. Granite is known for its permanence in both color and texture. In addition, it’s not prone to chipping or weathering.
Other types of stone that are good choices for cladding are limestone and marble. These are relatively easy to work with and have a high resale value. A reputable masonry contractor will be able to provide you with the best possible advice on which type of stone to use.
Another thing that a professional will tell you is that you may want to consider the thermal insulation products that are available. These will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To ensure you get the most for your money, you should look for ones that have the lowest U-Value. They should also be non-absorbent and rot proof.
Finally, when choosing a reputable company to install your stone wall, you will need to ensure that they are capable of doing it on site. In addition to this, you should give them an extra 10% allowance for any errors or trimming.
For the most part, stone wall cladding is easy to install and requires very little maintenance. The only major downside is that it may not suit your taste if you choose a style that is too bold. Nevertheless, the return on your investment is likely to be well worth it. If you have the right product, your wall will stand up to the test of time and provide you with a beautiful, stylish look.
Depending on the application, you may have to choose between a wet or dry installation. Both methods involve cleaning and preparing the substrate, applying the appropriate adhesive, and finally laying the cladding down. While the wet method is generally faster, you will not be able to leave room for expansion. Alternatively, you can install the cladding using a swan smooth technique to ensure a more efficient install.
As with any home improvement project, it is important to work with a reputable contractor. This will allow you to determine which method of installation is best for your situation.