Rocking a house with stone siding elevates its aesthetic appeal and increases its value, but how much does it realistically cost? At rockscapes.net, we understand that homeowners are always looking for ways to beautify and improve their homes and gardens with natural stone. Stone siding can range from $7.50 to $50 per square foot, including materials and labor. Continue reading to discover the different types of stone, factors that influence cost, and how to make informed decisions to achieve a stunning stone exterior. With rockscapes.net, discover affordable stone options and explore rock landscapes and rock garden inspirations.
1. Major Cost Factors of Stone Siding
Installing stone siding on a 2,500-square-foot home can range from $18,750 to $125,000. The type of stone you choose and the cost of installation are the two most important cost drivers.
- Stone type: The price of materials can vary greatly between natural stone and synthetic alternatives. Before deciding what to use for your home’s exterior, consider the appearance and durability of each option.
- Labor: Your project’s labor costs will depend on a number of variables, including the type of stone you use and where you are located. Faux stone siding is less expensive to install, whereas real stone is more expensive.
1.1. Stone Type
The cost of siding will depend on the type of stone you select. The various siding options are examined in our breakdown below.
1.1.1. Natural Stone
The most expensive type of stone siding material is natural stone. Within this category, you can select from several options, including granite, sandstone, limestone, basalt, and slate. These are all durable options, but the materials and installation are expensive.
| Stone Type | Minimum Cost per Sq. Ft. | Maximum Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Slate | $5 | $10 |
| Basalt | $7 | $11 |
| Limestone | $14 | $30 |
| Sandstone | $15 | $30 |
| Granite | $20 | $28 |
1.1.2. Stone Veneer
Stone veneer siding can be made of cement or polyurethane. The brand you choose will affect how easy it is to install and the caliber of the finished product, which will result in a wide price range.
| Brand Type | Minimum Cost per Sq. Ft. | Maximum Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Cast natural stone | $5 | $10 |
| Black bear | $5 | $10 |
| Eldorado stone veneer | $6 | $10 |
| Silvermine | $16 | $20 |
1.1.3. Faux Stone Panels
Faux stone panels are made of polyurethane. They are affordable and lightweight, which makes them simple to install, but they might not appear as authentic as other options. Material costs range from $3 to $5 per square foot.
1.1.4. Cost by Stone Type
| Stone Type | Minimum Cost per Sq. Ft. | Maximum Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Faux stone panels | $3 | $5 |
| Stone veneer | $5 | $20 |
| Natural stone | $5 | $30 |
1.2. Labor
The type of siding homeowners choose will affect labor costs. Because the materials are lighter and more consistent, anything in a premade panel form, such as veneer or faux stone, is simpler to install. However, natural stone calls for masonry expertise. Because of this, installation takes longer, requires a more specialized skill set, and raises project costs.
1.2.1. Cost by Labor
| Stone Type | Minimum Cost per Sq. Ft. | Maximum Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Stone veneer | $3 | $12 |
| Solid stone | $9 | $15 |
2. Pros and Cons of Stone Siding
The advantages and disadvantages of faux and natural stone siding vary depending on the type you select.
2.1. Natural Stone Siding
Although more expensive and difficult to install, there are numerous benefits to selecting natural stone for your house.
2.1.1. Pros
- Real stone is resilient and durable.
- There are choices for sustainable sourcing.
- The stone can be repurposed in the future.
2.1.2. Cons
- A high-cost product is real stone siding.
- Due to the specific masonry abilities needed, labor costs may be higher.
- Check local building codes for weight restrictions; frequently, the maximum is 15 pounds per square foot.
- Repairs can be challenging.
2.2. Faux Stone Siding
Faux stone and veneer stone siding are more affordable and simpler to install, but they might not have the same high-end appearance as real stone.
2.2.1. Pros
- It is less expensive than real stone.
- It is simpler (and therefore less expensive) to install.
- Especially for small areas, it could be a DIY project.
2.2.2. Cons
- Pieces might be the same.
- Sustainable sourcing options are not available.
3. DIY vs. Professional Stone Siding Installation
Choosing between DIY and hiring a professional is a crucial decision, as with any significant home improvement project impacting the property’s structural integrity. Before making a choice, consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.
3.1. DIY
By completing your stone siding project yourself, you can lower the overall cost. You could save between $3 and $15 per square foot on labor expenses if you decide to handle the project yourself. Siding projects of any kind, however, can be challenging, and if you make errors, you could wind up with hidden moisture problems beneath the stone or veneer.
There are a few things to think about that mostly rely on the kind of stone siding you select. Installing real stone that needs mortar is more difficult. Furthermore, you’ll need to ensure you don’t go over the maximum weight per square foot and figure out how to move such bulky materials or factor in the supplier’s delivery costs.
Installing a small area of manufactured stone veneer or faux stone panels is a more doable DIY project. Installing both types of materials will be simpler. And if you’re only building an accent wall instead of siding the entire house, the project will be safer and more manageable.
3.2. Professional
When installing any stone product, we advise working with a siding contractor. Each project stage calls for accuracy and experience, including computing surface coverage and correctly mixing the mortar. A professional needs to be knowledgeable about the siding you’ve chosen and capable of guaranteeing a high-quality installation. They ought to also be knowledgeable about the local building code regulations for weight distribution and the local permit procedure. To safeguard your investment, they might also provide a warranty on the installation.
4. Tips to Save on Stone Siding
Here are some suggestions to save money on stone siding while still improving your curb appeal:
- Examine siding costs and select a less expensive material.
- Think about installation times and choose a material that is simpler and faster to install.
- Remove any existing siding on your own.
5. Additional Cost Factors
The following variables will also affect the final cost of your stone siding project.
5.1. Finishes
The finish also affects the overall appearance and cost range when selecting your stone material. Here are a few types of finishes to consider:
- Aged stone
- Bush hammered stone
- Flamed stone
- Honed stone
- Natural cleft stone
- Sandblasted stone
5.2. Improvements and Enhancements
Updating your exterior walls with stone may open the door to additional projects, such as the following:
- Upgrading to a stone chimney: $4,000–$8,000.
- Painting the stone siding: $2.40–$5 per square foot.
- Sealing natural stone to waterproof and maintain color: $1–$4 per square foot.
5.3. Preexisting Siding Removal
Disposal costs range from $50 to $250. Professionals, however, usually include this fee in their cost estimate.
5.4. Underlayment Reinforcement
The material beneath your stone siding needs to be sturdy enough to support the materials. It’s possible that you’ll need to strengthen your underlayment before your contractor can install the natural stone or stone veneer. This step could raise the total project cost by anywhere from $9,900 to $17,900.
6. Hiring a Professional Stone Siding Contractor
Follow these tips to choose the right one when you’re ready to find a stone siding contractor.
- Ask for recommendations: Look around your neighborhood for houses with new stone siding and inquire as to who installed it. If you are unable to locate any, ask local stone suppliers for their recommendations.
- Get quotes: It’s best to obtain more than one quote for your project. Ask for as much information as you can to understand what’s included in the fee, such as jobsite cleanup and old siding removal.
- Clarify the schedule: Find out how long the project should take, when the contractor will start, and what kind of payment schedule they request.
7. Ideas for Rocking Your House with Stone
Ready to explore some creative ways to rock your house with stone? Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Full Stone Siding: Cover your entire home exterior with natural stone or stone veneer for a timeless and elegant look.
- Accent Walls: Create a striking focal point by adding stone to select walls, such as the front facade or a prominent gable.
- Stone Skirting: Enhance the foundation of your home with a stone skirting to add texture and visual interest.
- Entryway Enhancement: Frame your front door with stone columns or a stone archway to create a grand and welcoming entrance.
- Outdoor Living Spaces: Extend the stone aesthetic to your outdoor areas by incorporating stone into patios, fireplaces, and retaining walls.
For more inspiration, check out rockscapes.net’s gallery of stunning stone siding projects.
8. Rockscapes.net: Your Partner in Stone Landscaping
At rockscapes.net, we offer a wide range of natural stones, landscaping rocks, and decorative stones to help you create the rock landscape of your dreams. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, product information, or expert advice, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Here’s how rockscapes.net can help you with your stone siding project:
- Extensive Stone Selection: Browse our wide selection of natural stones, veneers, and faux stone options to find the perfect match for your style and budget.
- Inspiration and Ideas: Explore our gallery of stone siding projects to discover innovative designs and creative applications.
- Expert Advice: Consult with our experienced team to get personalized recommendations and guidance on stone selection, installation, and maintenance.
- Trusted Suppliers: We partner with reputable stone suppliers in the US to ensure you receive high-quality materials at competitive prices.
- DIY Resources: Access our collection of how-to guides, videos, and tips to help you tackle your stone siding project with confidence.
8.1. Rockscapes.net Services
Rockscapes.net offers comprehensive information and resources to assist with your stone siding project:
- Stone Selection Guides: Detailed guides to help you choose the right stone type, color, and texture for your home.
- Installation Tutorials: Step-by-step instructions and videos for DIY enthusiasts.
- Maintenance Tips: Expert advice on how to clean, seal, and protect your stone siding to ensure its longevity.
- Design Inspiration: A gallery of stunning stone siding projects to spark your creativity.
- Local Supplier Directory: A directory of trusted stone suppliers in the USA.
With rockscapes.net, you can confidently transform your home’s exterior with beautiful and durable stone siding.
9. Conclusion
Natural stone siding on a home
Stone siding is a beautiful way to enhance the exterior of your house. Unless you’re installing a small section of stone veneer, we advise working with a qualified expert for sizable siding projects. Obtain multiple quotes to ensure you select the best siding provider for your project.
For more ideas, details about different stone kinds, and helpful installation advice, visit rockscapes.net right now. Use our information to make educated decisions and give your property a magnificent stone makeover. Let rockscapes.net assist you in realizing your vision, whether you’re drawn to the rustic appeal of natural stone or the practicality of stone veneer. For professional assistance and to discover the beauty of stone landscapes, get in touch with us right now.
Address: 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States.
Phone: +1 (480) 965-9011.
Website: rockscapes.net.
10. FAQs About Stone Siding
10.1. Is Stone Cheaper Than Other Siding Options?
No, stone is more expensive than other siding options in most cases. Compared to natural stone, vinyl siding and wood are far less expensive. Stone veneer, however, might be priced similarly to these more affordable options.
10.2. What Are the Disadvantages of Stone Siding?
One drawback of stone siding is that fixing cracks can be challenging. If they are not treated for an extended period of time, moisture problems may arise beneath the surface of your stone siding. Furthermore, installing it yourself is difficult.
10.3. How Do You Maintain Stone Siding?
To maintain stone siding, you must use a gentle soap and water solution to remove any dirt and debris. Steer clear of harsh, acidic cleansers that could harm the stone. Additionally, you must apply a sealant every five years.
10.4. Is Stone Siding a Good Investment?
Because both natural and manufactured veneer products tend to increase the value of homes, stone siding is a wise investment. For example, when it comes to resale value, stone veneer has a 96% return on investment. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, homes with stone veneer siding often sell for a higher price than those without.
10.5. How Long Does Stone Siding Last?
Stone siding can last the life of the house or at least a century. Stone veneer is also very durable, lasting between 50 and 75 years.
10.6. What Factors Affect the Cost of Stone Siding?
The type of stone (natural vs. manufactured), the complexity of the installation, the size of the area to be covered, and the location of the project can all affect the cost. According to data from Fixr, the average cost of stone siding can vary by region, with some areas having higher labor costs than others.
10.7. Can Stone Siding Increase My Home’s Value?
Yes, stone siding can increase your home’s value. Stone siding is a desirable feature that can boost curb appeal and raise the worth of your house because it is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and timeless.
10.8. What Are the Different Types of Stone Finishes Available?
Aged, bush hammered, flamed, honed, natural cleft, and sandblasted stone are among the stone finishes that are offered. The overall appearance and cost will vary depending on the surface.
10.9. Is It Possible to Paint Stone Siding?
Yes, stone siding can be painted to match your home’s aesthetic. However, it is essential to use a high-quality masonry paint that is specifically designed for stone surfaces. According to Benjamin Moore, using the right type of paint and primer can ensure a long-lasting and durable finish.
10.10. How Often Should Stone Siding Be Sealed?
Stone siding should be sealed every 3 to 5 years to protect it from water damage and maintain its color. Sealing the stone can prevent moisture from penetrating the surface, which can lead to cracks and deterioration over time.
