Stone Siding
Real stone siding can be pretty expensive depending on the size of your home, but there are many more options available today due to new technology. Imitation stone siding is a mix of concrete, resins, fillers and stone, pre-molded into various forms. Some of these veneers and facings look very close to the real thing, particularly in the case of highly textured stones. You can get a material that looks and feels like real rock on the outside but is light weight and durable. This is the alternative most people go for because it's hard to tell the difference. The imitation rock is about a quarter of the cost of the real stuff. You can cover all or just parts of your home with stone. It serves as a good insulator.
Adding the look of stone to the face of a home will create a traditional appearance, and give a sense of luxury, even to modest homes. Slate, granite and other stones can be hand cut, or chiseled and fitted together to form a covering over any existing siding.
The high cost of real stone does not come from the material itself, but rather from the labor. Each stone needs to be cut and fitted on site, making this an extremely labor intensive job. Not only are the transportation and installation requirements high, stone also creates a structural challenge. The sheer weight of the material requires stronger foundations and support construction that also drives up the cost. Homeowners who want the look of stone facing, can lower installation costs by choosing the imitation stone. To avoid purchasing veneers or imitation sidings which do not give the same appearance as the real thing, ask to see multiple samples of the material. True stone will have a lot of variation. The stones will have different coloring, and will not be uniform in size or shape. There will be variations in thickness, clefting and edges. If the imitation stone has the same shape, size and texture from one piece to the next, or has a very uniform color, it will appear fake to the discerning eye. 
If you’ve taken the plunge and committed to stone siding, you’ll want to do everything possible to keep your investment looking its best. Luckily, stone creates a durable surface that is easy to maintain. Care of Stone Siding Taking care of stone siding is a straightforward job. These simple tips will get you started: •What not to use. When cleaning stone, avoid the use of wire brushes. Metal will scratch the rock surface. Also, avoid the use of acid or acid-based cleaners. These chemicals can stain or etch the stone and mortar. Finally, resist the urge to use a pressure washer. The high pressure can damage mortar and abrade the surface of stone. •Easy does it. Accumulated dirt can be removed with a combination of a stiff nylon brush, cheap granulated detergent and clear water. Be sure to rinse your stone well after cleaning to remove any soap residue. •Be careful in winter. When using salt and de-icing chemicals, try to keep them as far away from stone siding as possible. These materials can cause staining and weakening of the mortar that holds the stones in place. Stone is the ultimate statement when it comes to exterior siding for your house. The beauty and permanence of real stone will create an impression that will last the life of your home.
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