Wall cladding is a wonderful method to improve both interior and exterior spaces visual and additional durability. Stone Wall Cladding is especially noted for its longevity, timeless look and low maintenance; it is popular. And while not all stones are created equal, when it comes to affordability? They most certainly are. Natural stone is a must add to your home or building design although on a budget, you need to choose a stone that meets your aesthetic needs as well as financial constraints. Here in this guide we’ll walk through the most cost effective options for stone wall cladding.
Why stone as wall cladding?
Before we get into the cheapest stone options then, we want to give you a quick idea of why stone cladding is such a well utilized choice of choice.
- Durability: Natural stone is tough and can easily endure harsh weather conditions so that you can utilize it outside or inside.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The organic, earthy feel, stone cladding gives any space. Offered in many different textures, colors and finishes it can be highly customized.
- Low Maintenance: While other cladding materials demand lots of care when fitted, stone calls for very little maintenance once installed. And it doesn’t warp, crack, or fade over time.
- Sustainability: Natural resource Stone is more sustainable than synthetic material.
Next, let’s check out a few of the most cost effective stone cladding choices on hand.
- Sandstone: Wall cladding from sandstone is one of the most affordable natural stones. Soft fibers and neutral tones ensure it suits a number of design styles. The coloring of sandstone is earthy, it ranges from beige to yellow and red. It has natural resistance to weathering and is therefore a good proposition for exterior cladding. Sandstone is relatively inexpensive however you will need to seal it to keep moisture out as it will absorb it in a wet or humid climate. Moreover, the price of the sandstone cladding is still very low compared to numerous natural stones; however, making it a good budget stone.
- Limestone: Limestone is also a great cost effective option for wall cladding. I like the feel of the material – far more refined than sandstone, available in soft, neutral shades of ivory, light gray and cream. Limestone cladding is smooth and elegant, and has been used for both new builds and traditional designs. Sandstone is costlier than limestone but not at all expensive. It's naturally beautiful and hardy so it’s perfect for homeowners wanting to mix function with form while keeping on a budget.
- Slate: A tougher, black material with a distinctive, modern appearance. Compared to more expensive stones such as marble and granite, it’s also affordably priced as a natural stone cladding. It is very water resistant and therefore very durable, and can be used in applications such as garden walls and building facades. Design contrast is provided by the deep, rich colors which include gray on the dark gray to black portion of the slate range. Easy to maintain as well, you will only need to clean it from time to time to make it look fresh.
- Travertine: It is the form of limestone whose construction has been in use for centuries. Although not the least expensive option below, it's also less expensive than natural stones like marble or quartzite. With a natural warm appearance, travertine often comes with earthy colors – beige, cream and gold etc. It has a porous surface which then results in a unique texture which infuses character into any space. Travertine is one of the versatile types of stones. For exterior and interior wall cladding, it can be finished in any of the ways, polished, honed and tumbled, to create different looks and effects.
- Quartzite (Budget Varieties): Quartzite is a natural stone, but is harder and more durable than granite and as such is also more expensive. Some budget friendly varieties of quartzite are available that offer a luxurious look of marble with a fraction of the price. Most often, these options are less costly, lighter in color and have more delicate veins, offering the same elegant look without the budget drain. Quartzite is very heat and stain resistant and can be used both indoors and out. If you wish to add a bit of luxury to space without going broke, this is a good option.
The retail cost of this cladding is dependent on the factors outlined below.
- Installation Costs: Installation can become a very complicated and costly process. There are certain stones, which are more difficult to work with than others, for which it is necessary to employ hands peculiarly made up for that sort of work.
- Thickness and Size: Stone panels that are thicker and larger are also more expensive.
- Surface Finish: The other factor that adds up to the price is different finishes (polished, honed, etc.). Polished finishes, for example, may be more expensive than a natural or tumbled finish.
Conclusion
Sandstone and limestone are the best shot when you are looking for the cheapest stone for wall cladding. They are cheaper, durable, and have an enchanting look. Travertine and slate also offer similar budget options, with a unique, distinctly natural look. Carefully considering the type of stone, installation costs, surface finishes, will help you choose an option which is compatible with both your design vision and your budget.
The Stone Evolution provides top quality stone cladding solutions including a wide range of affordable and stylish solutions for any projects.
