Transform your home with beautiful stone veneer. Real or manufactured stone options create dramatic visual impact and lasting value. Expert installation throughout Ottawa.
Dramatic Visual Impact
Stone veneer completely transforms a home's appearance. It creates immediate presence and visual distinction in your neighborhood.
Property Value Enhancement
Stone veneer is one of the most effective curb appeal improvements for property value. Premium buyers recognize the quality and craftsmanship.
Premium Appearance
Nothing says quality and permanence like stone. It communicates longevity, investment, and attention to detail.
Exceptional Durability
40-50+ year lifespan, potentially longer. Stone doesn't deteriorate like wood, won't crack like vinyl in extreme cold, and is fireproof.
Minimal Maintenance
Unlike painted materials that need repainting or stained materials that need restaining, stone needs almost no maintenance.
Architectural Character
Stone adds dimension, texture, and character. It elevates even a simple home to premium appearance.
Fireproofing
Stone veneer is non-combustible and fire-resistant. Important for homes in fire-prone areas.
Heat Management
Stone thermal mass helps moderate temperature swings, slightly improving energy efficiency.
Real Stone Veneer
| Type | Appearance | Durability | Cost | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | Speckled, polished or matte | Excellent | $$$$ | Premium, high-end homes | Most durable option; beautiful polish |
| Limestone | Light colored, fine grain | Very good | $$$ | Classic, elegant look | Softer than granite; requires care |
| Sandstone | Warm tones, varied texture | Good | $$$ | Natural, organic appearance | Softer; can weather over time |
| Slate | Dark, layered, natural cleft | Excellent | $$$$ | Contemporary, sophisticated look | Very durable; distinctive appearance |
| Fieldstone | Irregular, natural shapes | Very good | $$$ | Rustic, cottage appearance | Random pattern creates character |
| Quarry Stone | Uniform, split finish | Excellent | $$$ | Clean, modern look | Industrial character |
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Popular Manufactured Styles
Our Recommendation for Ottawa:
Manufactured stone offers best value for most homes. Real stone for premium applications or accent areas. Both perform well in Ottawa climate.
Discuss stone type, color, pattern, and placement. Plan coverage area (full home, accent areas, chimney, entry, etc.).
Verify wall structure is adequate to support stone weight. Reinforce if needed (stone is heavy).
Remove existing siding carefully. Inspect substrate for any issues.
Install felt paper or house wrap for moisture management. Critical for stone veneer performance.
Install wire mesh (lath) to create mechanical bond for mortar. Fastened securely every 16 inches.
Install flashing at foundation to direct water away from stone base.
Apply first mortar layer over lath. This creates mechanical bond for stone.
Sort stone pieces by size, color, and shape. Plan layout to ensure balanced, attractive appearance.
Apply mortar to stone backs and lath. Press firmly into place. Maintain consistent mortar joint thickness (typically 1/2 to 1 inch).
Joints are raked (recessed) using proper tools to create shadow lines and desired appearance.
Joint mortar is finished with broom finish, smooth, or other texture as specified.
Mortar must cure properly before exposure to rain or extreme weather (typically 24-48 hours).
Trim pieces, corner stones, and window trim installed and finished.
Penetrating sealer applied to help repel water. Recommended for real stone and recommended for some manufactured stones.
Transitions, gaps, and connections caulked appropriately.
All debris removed. Home left clean.
Accent Stone (Partial Coverage)
Full Home Stone (Complete Coverage)
Mixed Application (Stone + Other Materials)
Most Popular Choice for Value
Full front facade with stone veneer, remainder with complementary material. Creates dramatic entry curb appeal while managing cost.
Annual Inspection
Cleaning
Mortar Repointing
Efflorescence Removal
Sealer Maintenance
Mold or Algae
Real Stone Veneer
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Long-Term Value
Both options offer excellent long-term value. Real stone is premium; manufactured stone is excellent value. Choose based on budget and aesthetic preference.
Material Cost
Coverage Area
Stone Type & Color
Substrate Condition
Sealing/Protection
Installation Complexity
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Stone is excellent for freeze-thaw cycles. Non-porous or sealed stone resists water intrusion. Mortar joints can be affected but repoint as needed.
Heavy Snow Load
Stone veneer is heavy; weight distribution is critical. Proper structural support handles snow loads. No degradation from snow weight.
Temperature Extremes
Stone expands and contracts with temperature but minimal compared to other materials. Proper mortar allows slight movement without damage.
Ice Dam Protection
Smooth stone sheds water when ice dams form. Stone itself is immune to water damage.
Wind Resistance
Stone is solid, durable, resists wind. One of the best options for wind resistance.
UV Exposure
Stone doesn't fade from UV. Slight weathering is part of the charm, not degradation.
Salt & Pollution
Real stone and manufactured stone resist salt spray. Good choice for areas near highways where salt is used.
Overall Assessment
Stone veneer is excellent for Ottawa's harsh climate. It's one of the most durable siding options available.
We've installed stone veneer on hundreds of Ottawa homes. We understand the climate demands and proper installation.
We're experienced with both real and manufactured stone. We can guide you through options and help select what's right for your home and budget.
Stone veneer installation requires precision. Proper substrate prep, lath installation, mortar mixing, and joint finishing are critical. We do it right.
We verify your home's structure can support stone weight. We make recommendations for any necessary reinforcement.
We help you plan stone placement, color selection, and pattern for maximum visual impact.
We source quality stone and mortar products appropriate for Ottawa's climate.
Long-Term Support & Licensed & Insured
We\'re here for maintenance advice, repointing, and any service needed over the years. Full insurance coverage and proper licensing protect you and your investment.
Contact Burnham Brothers for professional service and expert assessment.