How Do I Choose Between Using Full Bed, Thin Veneer, and Screw-On Stone?

This blog will help you decide which style of stone is best for your upcoming project. Before we dive in, it’s important to note that stone veneer - whether installed as an exterior application or an interior feature - consistently ranks among the highest ROI upgrades for a home, often recouping between 150%-200% of its cost at resale.

So, which stone should you choose? The first question to consider is whether your project is interior or exterior. For exterior applications on new builds, you have the flexibility to choose from our full range of stone options. For interior projects, however, thin veneer is typically the recommended and most practical choice.

When is thin veneer the best option? Thin veneer is a lightweight stone product with a depth ranging from 5/8” to 2”. It’s ideal for both new builds and renovations where you want a full masonry look without the need for a structural support ledge. Each piece is individually adhered to the substrate, allowing for more design flexibility and natural irregularities that aren’t always achievable with full-bed stone.

Full-bed stone can be more cost-effective if your project already includes a structural support ledge. Because full bed stone is 3”-5” thick and significantly heavier than thin veneer, it requires a support ledge to bear its weight. While the material and installation costs may be lower in some cases, thin veneer can offer savings by eliminating the need to construct the required 4” support ledge.

Screw-on stone is another excellent option, especially if you’re looking to reduce labor costs. It’s extremely DIY-friendly and can be installed without hiring a mason. Since it is mechanically fastened directly to the substrate, it doesn’t require a support ledge. Another major advantage is that it can be installed in virtually any weather conditions because no mortar is needed. Mortar installations require temperatures to remain above 4°C both day and night to cure properly, making screw-on stone a great solution for winter installations.

Ultimately, any stone can be a great choice. The right option depends on your project’s structural requirements, installation timeline, desired aesthetic, and budget. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact StoneRox - we’re always happy to help with your masonry needs.