November 2nd, 2023
Though it almost always looks exactly like solid stone, stone cladding is usually just a refined layer of natural or artificial stone. This layer is applied to a non-load bearing wall and will give the impression that the wall is made from solid stone.
Cladding in general is the simple practice of layering materials for better thermal insulation, weather protection, or aesthetic appeal – as is often the case for stone cladding. The most common type of cladding is probably weatherboard cladding, of which there are multiple types such as fiber cement, aluminum, vinyl and timber to name a few. Read more about the common types of weatherboard cladding and what it can do for you here.
Stone cladding in particular is a beautiful option to transform either interior or exterior walls. It is equally well suited to a new building or a renovation as it simply covers the existing walls. The category encompasses many different types of stone including granite, sandstone, limestone, marble, quartz and slate.
There are two main styles of stone cladding: cladding panels (easy installation – best suited for machine-split textured designs) or individual slip veneer (can be customized to the dims of the wall, appears more authentic, harder to install and more expensive).
Stone cladding is one of the most expensive cladding materials, so it may not be the right choice for those on an extremely strict budget. Including installation prices, stone veneer will cost somewhere between $230-310 per square meter depending on the type of stone you purchase.
For those who love the stone look but cannot afford the authenticity of natural stone materials, perhaps you could consider stone tiles instead. The main thing to consider when thinking about installing stone cladding is your budget; it will determine the type, volume and quality of the stone material you can purchase.
Stone cladding is a complicated process with several steps best carried out by professionals. You may be able to DIY if you have previous experience with stone cladding installation, but for the amateurs it is definitely a process to leave to the appropriate contractors. Incorrectly installed stone cladding systems will deteriorate much more quickly, can be dangerous for the building’s inhabitants, and could even compromise the structural integrity of the building.
Stone Wall Cladding Design Ideas: Top 3
1. Outdoor Stone Cladding - Facade
Stone cladding has a number of practical benefits outdoors as well as its supreme aesthetic appeal. Particular benefits of exterior stone cladding include; it’s durable, versatile, low maintenance and sure to increase the value of your home.
Eco Outdoor has an extensive range of natural stone walling material with easy application to all suitable surfaces. Their dry stone walling, pictured above, is particularly beautiful as it has a natural and rugged elegance reminiscent of authentic Italian farmhouses. You can browse their extensive range here, from Alpine to Baw Baw to Jindera stone options. Request a quote for a price estimation.
2. Indoor Stone Cladding - Feature Wall
They can be accented with shelves displaying photos or plants, or if you really want to emphasize the blend of nature and modernity, you may even choose to mount your TV on the feature wall.
There are many different styles, colours and textures available. The image above is a collage of some of the cladding samples available from Stone and Rock. Browse their extensive range here or you can visit their showrooms in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, East Queensland and Northern NSW.
3. Fireplace
Luxe Interiors are particularly known for their skill in styling stone wall cladding with elegant rustic colours and furniture. Browse their galleries here.
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