Why Stone Veneers are the Ideal Choice for Stunning Facades
100% natural flexible stone panels – An introduction
100% natural flexible stone panels – An introduction When doing any kind of renovation, whether it’s commercial or residential, trying to figureout what’s the best material to go over your wall or floor to add to the experience is always achallenging choice with a variety of options. In the past, the more traditional options such asusing tiles, carpets & wallpapers were unchallenged. However, in the recent, there’s a number of alternatives to be used that can be installed over awall or floor not only for the aesthetic appearance, but also for a number of useful attributes itadds to the surface beneath. From stackstone to claddings, there are a number of optionsavailable, out of which flexible stone veneers are often underrated but easily edge out thesubstitute competition in terms of versatility, price & ease of installation. Which brings us tothe question – what are flexible stone veneers, & why should you use this to cover your wallsor floors instead of the more traditional tiles, carpets or wallpapers? Sketch Australia’s 100% natural flexible stone veneers are extracted from metaphoric stone,resulting in a stone surface of 100% natural stone. This stone sheet is attached to a backfillmaterial, which could be either fabric, fibreglass or translucent, by an adhesive, to form aflexible stone sheet. The final product is a lightweight & flexible 100% natural stone sheet,with a thickness of 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm & weighing only 1 kilo per sheet. Extracted frommetaphoric stone, the surface of the stone sheet carries the same properties of natural stone –durability as well as water & heat resistance. The combination of the backfill material as wellas the impressive thin profile not only ensures flexibility, but the light-weight nature of thestone panel also ensures more manoeuvrability during installation & better layout optionsthrough allowing easy cutting & trimming to fit any design. When we talk about tiles, flexibility is not a word which comes to mind, but it is for a carpet.But then again, a carpet can only be used to cover a floor, not a wall, & certainly can’t beused on ceilings! Tiles do add a sense of durability, compared with a carpet, but thatdurability is certainly no match for natural stone. So flexible stone veneers combine theflexibility of a carpet as well as the light-weight nature, while also being more durable thantiles – could there be a more enticing option in terms of versatility for your interior or exteriorrenovation project? You may have a doubt regarding the ease of installation as well as theapplications for flexible stone veneers – so let’s have a look at that next! Installation of flexible stone panels – Popular substrate choices Sketch Australia’s 100% natural flexible stone panels can be installed on top of virtually anysubstrate as long as it has a flat surface, yes, even on top of curved surfaces! Installable ontop of any ceiling, wall or floor for both exterior & interior, popularly, it is installed on top ofcement, wood, glass, steel, brick & rendered surfaces. Applications for flexible stone panels – Popular applications Sketch Australia’s 100% natural flexible stone panels can be used in almost any kind ofapplication, but some of the most commonly preferred applications are in kitchensplashbacks, bathrooms & bedrooms, fireplaces, facades, furniture & doors, as well as carinteriors. Application options are only limited by your creativity! Installation – DIY with minimum household tools & resources Sketch Australia’s 100% natural flexible stone panels can easily be installed withoutspecialist help or expensive equipment. Cutting the flexible stone panel only requires anangle grinder, & applying it on top of the surface would require a good PU adhesive whichcan easily be purchased from bunnings. Once installed, a good penetrative sealer should beapplied on top of the stone surface to protect it & for easy clean up. We have a clearinstallation guideline as well as a separate manual on aftercare as well, both which includethe tools needed for installation as well as the PU adhesives & sealers we recommend. Why go for flexible stone panels – A comparative benefit analysis As far as cladding options go, there are numerous claddings which can be considered, & thisis where it’s important to understand why you should select flexible stone panels as opposedto other cladding options. A few major reasons you may want to choose Sketch Australia’sflexible stone panels as opposed to other cladding options are highlighted below; 1. Visual appeal Flexible stone panels have a warm & natural hue to it that no man-made cladding or surfacecan equal, with a strong appeal whether it’s installed on residential or commercial spaces.The natural surface is so alluring that curiosity alone would be a reason for anyone seeing itto touch & feel the surface. 2. Durability As long as the installation is done correctly & with the recommended after-care, the naturalstone panels can withstand the test of time, being able to go through changing weatherconditions & day-to-day wear & tear. Depending on the strength of the surface it’s installedon, the stone sheets are also prodigious as weight-bearing cladding. 3. Versatility One of the best features about using flexible stone as a cladding is the near-limitlessapplication. Installable on any kind of flat surface, from walls to ceilings to floors, for interior& exterior architectural/renovation projects makes flexible stone count among the topversatile claddings. The flexibility & light-weight flexible stone can also be applied oncurved surfaces adding to its versatility. 4. Affordability Flexible stone panels are extremely affordable than using the actual stone slab, & consideringthe installation is DIY with a minimum requirement of household tools & resources, there’sno doubt on the affordability. Also, the aftercare of the flexible stone panel is also relativelyless expensive. Not to mention, if you go for a faux stone/manufactured stone alternative,once the colours fade or discolour, you’ll have to replace the whole structure from beginning,doubling the cost initially incurred. 5. Lightweight When compared to other stone cladding alternative such as tiles or slabs, flexible stone panelsare extremely lightweight, a single sheet weighing only around 1 kilo. Transportation &installation also becomes easier. Also, some surfaces may not be able to accommodate theweight of slabs or tiles, so being lightweight also adds to the application versatility. 6. Water & heat resistant Extracted from 100% natural stone, flexible stone panels are water & heat resistant due toinherent properties of natural stone. This adds to the versatility in application, where the sameproduct can be used outdoors, as well as for interior structures with moisture (such as kitchensplashbacks & bathrooms) & heat (such as fireplaces or behind stoves/BBQ’s). 7. Ease of installation Installation is not only affordable, but additionally, it can be done on your own, especially ifyou’re a DIY enthusiast. Even if you’re not a DIY enthusiast, hey – any local tiler would takeup a job of installing flexible stone panels at a bargain price since the installation isstraightforward without any special tool requirement. 8. Low maintenance Once the initial penetrative sealant is applied after installation, you can use a variety ofcleaning products which you can get from Bunnings, & for the most basic dust & other day today dirt, you can easily wash it off with water. Using a sealant at least every 5 years wouldprolong the durability & will ensure easy cleaning.
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What are feature walls?
What are feature walls? There is a significant investment involved in building or renovating your dream home, & based on your importance, you will choose to spend more in a certain area, either interior or exterior. Some would choose to invest more in the architecture, as in how the house will look from the outside, while others will choose to focus more on the interior design of the house. Whether you choose to focus more on the exterior architecture or the interior design of your dream home, you can be sure that you come across the term “feature walls” or “statement walls”. Today, let’s focus on what a feature wall is, & whether having a feature wall is something that would be of interest to you when you’re building or renovating your dream home. A feature wall, also known as a statement wall, is used usually when the rest of the room or the area chosen to be renovated is more of a neutral colour tone or theme. You can choose to decorate a single wall using several different options, from wallpaper to natural stone, or other textured material, which creates a “feature”. The best advantage in creating a feature wall is that you can create a theme for your home without having to decorate the whole room or area, & you can do this as a separate renovation. You could also consider a feature wall when you’re buying new furniture, to complement the look of your dream home. Your feature wall will be personalized for your choice, whether you decide to decorate it with wallpaper, natural stone or other textured material, & it’ll help you to stand apart by giving the room/area a distinct personality. The best part about a feature wall is that you needn’t have it only as an interior design – you can even have it as part of the exterior, especially as a façade. A feature façade will certainly give the theme of your home & separate it among the other houses on the street. Where would a feature wall go? When trying to figure out where best a feature wall would go, it’s important to consider the below: 1. Location – The feature wall should be the first thing that the eye rests on when anyone enters the room, so selecting a random wall for the feature wall would be a mistake. When someone enters the room, what’s the first thing that they would notice, except the feature wall? That’s where you need to have your feature wall set up. E.g.: if it’s a media room, then the point of focus would be the TV, so the wall that the TV is set up on would be the best choice as a feature wall. 2. Seamless appearance – Make sure that the wall chosen as the feature wall doesn’t have a doorway or window, which would give a broken-up appearance. Also, a feature wall shouldn’t be kept near a wall with another theme going on, since the feature wall should be the main focal point which doesn’t confuse the viewer. 3. Space for the feature wall – The feature wall should be in a room or area that is not too crowded, or where the room is too small. If a feature wall is done in an area that is small or with too much going on, it can give a feeling of being too cluttered to the viewer. As an interior design purpose, a feature wall can be better suited for a hallway where you’re welcoming guests. What options are available for a feature wall? There are many options to do a feature wall, starting from wallpaper to the more versatile options including wood cladding, brick cladding, stone cladding, & flexible stone veneers. Let’s have a look at each of these claddings & wallpaper. 1. Wallpaper on a feature wall:Well, wallpaper can be environmentally friendly, with a number of different colours & patterns to select from. Replacing the wallpaper can be relatively easier too. However, wallpaper is also difficult to clean, & may not be able to endure long term exposure, resulting in colour fading with time. Also, wallpaper is one of the more common options among claddings on a feature wall, where a feature wall is supposed to stand out & be unique. 2. Stone cladding on a feature wall:Stone cladding is another option to have on your feature wall, with a great resilience to extreme elements & weather. Stone is also fire resistant, durable & easy to maintain. However, stone claddings come at a rather large cost, & installation too can be expensive. If damaged, it is difficult to repair, while bacteria or fungal growth on stone is a very likely possibility. 3. Wood cladding on a feature wall:Wood cladding has a good aesthetic appeal & high insulation property. It also is extremely impact resistant with low thermal conductivity. However, one of the main issues with using wood cladding is that there is poor dimensional stability, since it can expand & contract as the seasons change from one to another. Also, using wood leaves a negative impact on the environment. If not treated properly, wood is also more prone to rot & decay. 4. Brick cladding on a feature wall:Bricks are another popularly used wall cladding, same as wallpaper. Bricks are thermally efficient, easily recycled & reused, while also being moderately durable. However, there is an environmental impact of using brick, since bricks are baked in kilns, which need a considerable level of energy. Not to mention cement used to bind the bricks contribute approximately 5% to the global carbon dioxide emission. Apart from the negative environmental impact, installation cannot be done on your own, is expensive, & if damaged, cost of repairing can also be high. So, looking at each of these options, there are issues that negate the advantages heavily, so what then is the best option? Why not look elsewhere? Say, why not consider flexible stone veneers? Why are flexible stone veneers the jack of all trades to use in a feature wall? Flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metaphoric stone. The stone surface is both water & heat-resistant, while offering great durability & flexibility being 1 kilo & between 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm thick. Versatility is a keyword when discussing flexible stone veneers, since it can be used for both interior & exterior architectural projects, & it can go on top of any substrate, from tiles to glass, wood, cement, render or brick! Once a good sealant has been applied, it can technically last a lifetime with regular aftercare. Installation is also extremely simple, & you can do it on your own if you have a few simple tools at home like an angle grinder & glue nails. Flexible stone veneers bring the advantages of stone cladding such as great durability & water resistance, without the environment impact, high price tag & difficulty in installation. Flexible stone veneers also bring the aesthetic appeal & impact resistance of wood cladding without the environment impact & the possibility of rot & decay. The only advantage that wallpaper has over flexible stone veneers is the lesser price tag, but it comes at the cost of sacrificing durability, endurance & aesthetic appeal. Brick cladding, while a very good choice, again brings the negative impact to the environment to the table, while you cannot do a brick cladding on your own, so there’s more expenses involved. Overall, flexible stone veneers bring most of the combined advantages of many cladding options, with minimum negative impact, so it’s the perfect choice for a feature wall! Conclusion While there are many options available to do a feature wall, flexible stone veneers offer most of the advantages of the alternatives without the negatives of using those alternatives. Flexible stone veneers have been used famously all across Europe for a considerable time, & is now revolutionizing the Australian construction industry as well. Why not consider flexible stone veneers to upgrade your dream home’s feature wall! After all, you do deserve the best!
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What are kitchen splashbacks?
Wall tiles have always been the prime choice of anyone who wants to protect their kitchen walls from everyday splashes of grease or other stainable substances right until the ‘90’s. But there’s a downside in using tiles on your kitchen wall – it can be pretty difficult to clean (not to mention time consuming), & over time, there definitely will be a discolouration to the grout. This downside paved the way for the modern splashback (also known as “backsplash” in the US), which was a smoother, stylish & easy-to-clean alternative to protect the kitchen walls. What is the purpose of using a splashback? While providing protection from heat & condensation, a kitchen splashback is a wipe-clean screen which is installed on top of your kitchen walls to protect the wall from splashes of grease, water or other kind of stainable substances. Essentially installed behind hobs & sinks, splashbacks have become quintessential to have in the kitchen. At the same time, it can also be a great upgrade behind any kind of worksurfaces, including benchtops, whether for aesthetic or functional purpose. Apart from being one of the most practical additions in the kitchen design, there are many options for a splashback that make a statement on their own & bring a look of class to the kitchen, over any wall tile. What makes a good splashback? The below are the qualities that you should watch out for when selecting a good splashback material for your kitchen: Makes a statement on its own – The purpose of the splashback, while being functional, should also uplift the appearance of the kitchen Resistance to heat & moisture – Resistance to heat & moisture is the most basic functional purpose of a kitchen splashback Easy to clean – A good splashback should be easy to wipe clean with water or other basic detergent, without having to scrub nor use special cleaning liquids With these criteria that makes a good splashback, let’s explore a few options that are available to you to upgrade your kitchen with a refreshing look! Going with the “oldies” – Using tiles as a splashback Tiles are some of the most versatile options in any kind of interior decoration & is a traditional favourite. With an unlimited choice in terms of colours & sizes, the tile initially seems like a great choice as a splashback. Tiles are generally durable since they are made of porcelain, & depending on your taste, you can choose to go with a clean metro tile in a single colour, or go for a daring multi-colour pattern. With the wide array of colours, sizes, & age- old confidence it gives, what are the drawbacks in using tiles as a splashback? The most obvious would be that it’s not exactly the newest revelation in splashbacks – tiles have been there as a splashback option since a long time, & it’s not exactly going to be the talk of the party. Apart from this, installation of tiles can take some time to both apply & dry, & if a poor job is done, then it’ll result in lose or cracked tiles. Finally, tiles are not the most durable among the options available for a splashback. Going with the “glossy” – Using glass as a splashback If you’re looking for a little more flair than traditional tiles, then tempered glass panels offer a more modern option that has made a mark as a good splashback. Glass is usually easy to clean, reflects natural light to bring a bright effect to your kitchen, while maintaining it’s colour. There are limited design options, though, unless you choose to go with a custom glass mosaic, resulting in a drastic increase in labour costs. While using tempered glass can be a very enticing option, there are a few drawbacks too. The most obvious is that it’s easily damaged, especially during installation. Another would be if you like to select from a variety of options in terms of colours or designs, you’ll find yourself restricted due to limited colour & design options. Also, installation of tempered glass isn’t exactly a DIY option & it’s highly recommended to use a professional installer for the job. Going with the “steely” look – Using stainless steel as a splashback This is an option for those who love to have the look of an “industrial” kitchen. A stainless- steel splashback will give a modern look to your splashback at a good price, & can even be considered as a DIY project if it’s familiar grounds for you. You even have the option to order a standard size sheet that is as thin as 1 mm, or pay a little more for a little extra thickness to match your wall tile. Another thing is that stainless-steel is easy to clean & scrub, it won’t crack, & can be installed over existing tiles or paint with a good adhesive. However, all these features don’t come without a sacrifice. Stainless-steel, at the end of the day, can be dented, can be scratched, & the industrial design can definitely become outdated over time, not to mention it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If damaged, it’ll cost more for re-installation, not to mention it may also damage the integrity of the tile/surface beneath. Going with the “reflecting” option – Using mirror as a splashback While not being everyone’s cup of tea, if looking at a glittering chandelier brings a smile to your face, then installing a mirrored splashback will be exactly what you’re looking for. It can be a stunning feature to have in your kitchen, & makes a smaller kitchen feel larger since it reflects a duplicate of your clean counters or worktops. This option is, however, a luxury option, since a mirror will have to be cut to custom size & professionally installed. Also, mirrors are the most susceptible to break during transportation or installation which would require a complete replacement, so it’s important to select toughened glass mirrors to be on the safe side, which will also have a hit on your wallet. Using mirror as a splashback, then, has a few drawbacks that we saw in steel in a different form – while steel can get scratched or dented, mirror can not only scratch, but crack! Talk about 7 years of bad luck! It’s also among the most expensive option (without even replacing the cracked mirrors), & installing mirror is definitely a job for a professional. Going with the “cheap” option – Using peel & stick tiles as a splashback Is this your very first kitchen, or are you installing a splashback on a rental unit? Then a peel & stick tile will be another good option, since you can add a splashback within no time, on your own, & for a cheaper price. Peal & stick tiles are just printed vinyl, but come in various designs that look like mosaic tiles. These peel & stick tiles will last a few years before fading if the wall is properly prepared. Peel & stick tiles are also scrubbable, & provide a finished look to your kitchen in an instant. The best feature, however, would be that when you want to change the look of your splashback, you can easily switch it up with something new. However, anything cheap comes at a price. The look & feel both can feel like a vinyl applique at the end of the day, & the colours do tend to fade, especially in a very busy kitchen. Peel & stick tiles are also very prone to basic damages like scratching & tearing. Going with the “lazy” option – Using paint as a splashback Based on your preferences & requirements, you can also choose to get a small can of paint at the general store to cover up the stains of kitchen use in a few hours on your own. You can simply apply another coat if you can’t get any new stains out of the paint. If you look for a high gloss/high-quality paint, then it’ll make it easier to clean as well. However, being lazy in your choice of a splashback comes with its own complications. Firstly, you can’t really scrub out hardcore stains from paint, & paint has a way of holding on to grease & dirt than any other splashback material, so get ready to stare at grime &stains in a few months of kitchen use. Also, paint used as a splashback, has the least professional appearance among all the options, & will certainly not give a statement. Finally, repeatedly applying coats of paint on your stained splashback is not exactly a practical approach, & defeats the whole purpose of a splashback in the first place. Going with the “sensible” option – Using flexible stone veneers as a splashback Let’s look at an option that managed to overcome nearly all of the drawbacks we discussed in this article in other material used for splashbacks. Sketch Australia’s 100% natural flexible stone veneers are extracted from metaphoric stone, resulting in a stone surface of 100% natural stone. This stone sheet is attached to a backfill material, which could be either fabric, fibreglass or translucent, by an adhesive, to form a flexible stone sheet. The final product is a lightweight & flexible 100% natural stone sheet, with a thickness of 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm & weighing only 1 kilo per sheet. Extracted from metaphoric stone, the surface of the stone sheet carries the same properties of natural stone – durability as well as water & heat resistance. The combination of the backfill material as well as the impressive thin profile not only ensures flexibility, but the light-weight nature of the stone panel also ensures more manoeuvrability during installation & better layout options through allowing easy cutting & trimming to fit any design. Flexible stone veneers are much more durable than using traditional tiles, peel & stick tiles, stainless-steel or even glass, since it’s made of stone. Seriously – how easy is it to crack a natural stone?! Only stone slabs are more resistant to damage than stone veneers, but come at a drastic cost. Unlike mirror, glass or steel, flexible stone veneers are easy to install on your own, & need very few equipment, most of which you’d already find in your tool shed. It also gives a great vintage look to your kitchen, while not compromising on the durability. Flexible stone veneers are also a fashion statement, & in this sense, it’s definitely unmatched by the cheaper options like paint, peel & stick tiles, or even traditional tiles. With good maintenance, you can be sure that flexible stone veneers last a lifetime. Food for thought… Depending on your expectations, you may decide to go ahead with flexible stone veneer as your splashback, or any of the others listed here – but the correct choice will save you costs of replacements, repairs, while also being a timeless classic in your kitchen which you can install on your own. Choose wisely – after all, you do deserve the best!
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Sketch flexible stone panels as a solution for bathroom déco
The bathroom is a room which is universally seen & known specifically designed for personal grooming apart from the obvious use, & as such, there are specific challenges in decorating the appearance of the bathroom which needs to be taken into consideration, including the use of chemical agents as well as exposure to constant moisture & humidity. Resilient material is an absolute requirement when considering renovations for your bathroom. Let’s explore some of the most common bathroom renovation material in the market nowadays, shall we? 1. Paint – No hassle, nothing exceptional No introduction is needed for this timeless classic. Paint can be used virtually on any surface in the bathroom, from the shower walls to the washbasin. There’s virtually an unlimited array of paint colours to choose from, & it’s relatively easy to apply. Maintenance is also easy as long as you clean it from time to time, & if you want to change the style, it’s just a matter of painting the walls to another colour. However, using paint in your bathroom renovations comes at many a cost. Firstly, paint is a very traditional option, so it’s not going to be anything to write home about, no matter what colours you use. Secondly, it’s important to select a good water proof, high quality paint, to withstand the moisture & various chemical agents used in the bathroom, or you’ll be dealing with constant mould or faded paint. Finally, you’ll most certainly want a professional to apply the paint to apply a symmetrical coating of paint, & also to do a neat job. 2. Tiles – The obvious choice with limits Tiles are nothing new to use in a bathroom renovation, not to mention that tiles are ideal for damp rooms & go hand in hand with bathroom claddings. Tiles are relatively durable, waterproof, & help in keeping the appearance of the bathroom with easy & occasional cleaning. There’s also a large variety of tiles to select from, with different sizes & colours. You can also choose to tile your bathroom on your own, especially if you’re a DIY enthusiast. However, there are a few things you need to consider too. Tiles, like paint, are very common to use in a bathroom, & your bathroom will never be anything more than unremarkable to your guests or visitors. Also, tiles, while relatively durable, can be chipped or cracked, especially if used on the bathroom floor. Finally, while you can choose to install tiles on your own, if you don’t do a good job on your own, you can be sure that the tiles won’t have a good fitting. 3. Tadelakt wall – Natural & neutral The tadelakt wall is among the most natural claddings which you could apply in your bathroom, being made of water, lime & marble powder. The different shades that the material offers are, therefore, more natural looking, & the neutral colours will match with the bathroom fixtures too! There are a few drawbacks, though. Mostly, even though there are a few easy to apply coats which are similar to tadelakt, the original one still requires technical knowledge to install, so it’s most definitely not a DIY product & installation can be costly. Also, the colours are not that vibrant in comparison to other options. 4. Waxed concrete – The “waxed” option Waxed concrete gives a more modern look to your bathroom when compared with tiles, paint & even tadelakt. It is also relatively durable & water proof. However, one of the biggest snags about this is that installation will definitely have to be undertaken by a professional. If not properly done, waxed concrete will be neither durable, nor water proof. 5. Wallpaper – A timeless classic with a few “buts” Using wallpaper in any kind of household renovation is certainly not uncommon, & using it in the bathroom is more common than you’d think. If you use special wallpaper, you can use it in a bathroom with more moisture. It’s easy, it’s quick & you can create your own vibe. There’s a caveat – it’s not the easiest to apply, & either needs a lot of patience & experience, or a professional. Besides, using wallpaper will not add any protection to the layer below, & it’s certainly not going to be a crowd-pleaser. Also, unless you use the best quality wallpaper, there’s a likelihood that it won’t do well with cleaning products & frequent moisture which you’d expect in a bathroom. 6. PVC cladding – Practical but an imitation PVC cladding is light-weight, has a good thermal insulation, easy to maintain & has a wide range of appearance, from glossy to wood-like. It’s generally known as an inexpensive way to substitute the more expensive materials since it can imitate most of them. However, the keyword here is “imitate”. Imitations don’t always bring to the table the most of the original product. For starters, PVC claddings are toxic, it’s not biodegradable, & it cannot be recycled, so you can ensure that it’s hazardous to the environment. It can look cheap, even though it’s expensive, & if you’re guests can guess it’s artificial, it’s certainly not flattering. So, we’ve explored the good, the bad & the ugly. Could there be an alternate solution for bathroom renovations & claddings that we haven’t explored so far? 7. Sketch Australia flexible stone veneers – Elegant & durable Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are extracted from 100% natural stone, resulting in a durable, flexible, easy-to-install thing stone sheet. Sustainably extracted with a minimum carbon footprint, Sketch Australia’s flexible stone sheets are water & heat resistant, thanks to the surface being natural stone. Installable on virtually any flat surface, it can be attached on top of cement, glass, wood, tiles, brick & render. It goes on walls as well as floors. One of the best things about Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers is that it’s a DIY product, so you can make it a weekend project to do it on your own without the help of professional installers. It’s also much cheaper than using the options such as stackstone or actual stone slabs. The finish of the stone will take after the actual stone it was extracted from, whether it be marble, sandstone or slatestone. There are no discolorations since it’s natural stone, & if proper installation & aftercare is done, it will last a lifetime. Using Sketch Australia’s flexible stone panels in the bathroom is a great option if you’re looking for a durable yet elegant renovation solution. It’s not as common as using wallpaper or tile, it’s definitely not bad for the environment as using PVC, nor does it look cheap, which is what PVC can sometimes come across. You can also use it on the floor as well as the wall. In terms of durability, it’s more durable than tile, since no man-made cladding can come close to natural stone in terms of durability. It’s not as complicated to apply as waxed concrete, & it’s not as neutral looking as tadelakt. Overall, one of the best options that you can consider for your bathroom renovations happens to be Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers. After all, you do deserve the best!
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Render or veneer – What should you go with?
Render or veneer – What should you go with? Building material manufacturers are continuously working on new methods of combining minerals & chemicals to produce superior material which can be used on site. Sometimes, these new material can prove to be easy to apply, while also being low maintenance due to improved performance. Render is one such products, however, keep in mind that with the variety of different options & results, it may be challenging to understand which render will work best on the exterior of your project. Using render is ideal to give a new outlook to an ageing or unattractive exterior for existing houses. It’s commonly established that by adding a weatherproof barrier between the brick surface & the weather elements, render can prolong the life of a building. Rendering can also help to invigorate damaged or worn-out brickwork with a consistent overall finish across the building & property.Let’s understand what render really is, & the different types of render that you can choose from, shall we? What is render? Render is a coating which is applied over a building’s external walls. It’s the smooth, usually white surface on the exterior of a house. To create a flexible & breathable covering, traditionally, render was prepared by mixing lime, water & an aggregate (such as sand). However, this method hasn’t been very popular in the past few decades, & mostly used for period property conservation. Many modern render products are cement free. The newer render options can sometimes include elements which help to add waterproofing or resistance to algae growth, & you can even get the renders pre-mixed with a colour to add a vibrant finish as well as for external insulation. Generally, modern render can be divided into three main types, which are mineral, acrylic & silicone. Usually, these only need one coat with a thickness of 1 mm to 4 mm, but this is primarily based on the substrate that is under the render. If chipping is added to the surface once the render is done, then the render may need to be at least 6 mm thick. To level out poor brick surfaces, a basecoat of 8 mm to 10 mm may be needed. Sand & cement render – Cheap but costly in the long run? Cement-based or mineral renders are nothing new. Cement-based or mineral renders are made from sharp sand, cement &, to add more flexibility, adding a little lime to the mixture, & consists of several layers. The best advantage in using cement-based render is the relatively lower cost, at around $ 45 to $ 80 AUD per square meter, including the material & labour costs. However, on the other hand, you need to paint on top of cement-based render (it’s not self-coloured), so there’s a cost for maintenance over the years. The paint also needs to be a good quality paint with weather & moisture resistance. Cement-based render could also be more prone to cracking since it’s not very flexible, & its efficacy is based on the correct mixing of the components, since it’s not usually pre-mixed in a quality-controlled, modern factory environment. When the render fails, there’s a possibility for water to seep in, which in turn leads to damp & mould problems. There are pre-mixed products designed to make sure the right ratio of ingredients is mixed, though. Silicone & acrylic render – Durable but slack water resistance? The modern silicone & acrylic renders are usually pre-made, & arrives to the site in tubs. These types of renders can be pre-coloured with almost any pigment so that it results in a very vibrant appearance. While these types of renders are durable, they may not be too great at waterproofing, so there’s the possibility to attract algae. This option is suitable especially if your interest is in a product which is flexible to prevent cracking with the time passing by. This kind of render is applied in stages (the base coat, then the primer & finally the top coat), & the time needed to dry it is lesser than standard cement.Silicone render is self-coloured, & since the colour is embedded to the topcoat, no painting is required, meaning no redecoration during its lifetime. If properly applied & cared for, it does have a relatively long-life expectancy, being more flexible than traditional products meaning less chance for cracking & more room for expansion/contraction. It’s also water repellent. Another factor to consider is the cost, since thin-coat silicone/acrylic renders are premium products, costing approximately between $ 117 to $ 180 AUD per square meter including labour & materials. Monocouche – Quick application but limited durability This is a more breathable option even though it’s cement-based, & it’s through-coloured, meaning no extra painting is needed.This render arrives on site as a dry mix ready to be blended with water, with an overall thickness designed to be around 15 mm. For a well-built, neatly finished blockwork, one layer can be more than enough, so it’s ideal for anyone who’s looking for quick application process with a good outcome. In terms of cost, it would be approximately $ 100 to $ 135 AUD per square meter including labour & materials, & homeowners who are looking at this option would compare the silicone option too.However, compared with the silicone option, monocouche is slightly cheaper & won’t last as long, it’s also not as good at resisting water & dirt. Using flexible stone veneers as an alternative to render Flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metamorphic rock, resulting in a 100% natural thin sheet of stone. It is naturally water & heat resistant, while also being durable. Since it’s attached to a backing (usually fibreglass, but other options include fabric for more flexibility & translucent for lighting options), it’s also flexible (being only 1.5 to 2.0 mm in thickness), so it can be installed on top of any flat surface, even on curves! It’s also very lightweight, a single sheet being around 1 kilo. It goes on top of any interior or exterior surface, from floors to walls & ceiling, on top of any kind of substrate, including cement, tiles, glass, steel, wood or even render! Applications are unlimited, from feature walls to fireplaces, splashbacks, bedrooms, bathrooms, or even furniture! One of the main advantages that Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers have over render is the appearance. Being extracted from slatestone, sandstone or marble, the split surface of the stone sheet makes a statement of its own with finesse & texture. Each sheet has its own appearance in terms of the colour & texture, & is the perfect conversation starter. It’s also more durable than any man-made product, including cement-based renders, since it’s made of natural stone. Another advantage that stone veneers have over render is the fact that it’s both water & heat resistant, so you can be assured that with the proper installation & aftercare, your mind will be free from worry of future repairs. Flexible stone veneers by Sketch Australia come with an installation guideline, & unlike render, stone veneers are considered a DIY product with no special requirement of tools & adhesives for installation. From cutting to installation of the flexible stone veneers, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to have it installed by tilers, you can be sure that the labour cost is cheaper than render due to this reason. Finally, natural stone lasts a lifetime, with a 5-year warranty given by Sketch Australia for chipping & discolouration. The flexibility of the stone veneers means that it’s ideal for extreme weather conditions, allowing for expansion & contraction. As you can see, while render has its own advantages & appearance, if you’re looking for a more durable, elemental resistant & easier installation option, then it’s certainly an option you should consider.
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Cladding options for Kitchen Cabinetry
Cladding options for Kitchen Cabinetry You’ve no doubt come across the term cladding. But what is cladding? Cladding can be defined as a layer of a covering which is installed or applied over an external surface of a structure to either protect it &/or give it a new look. Due to day-to-day wear & tear, structures can begin to show signs of age, & cladding can be a way of covering up the damage while also stopping it from continuing. Cladding can come in a variety of material, including but not limited to glass, stone, brick, plastic & timber. However, the cladding options we’re talking about today are a tad different than house cladding – it’s cladding options for kitchen cabinetry. So, let’s explore what are the different options to use as kitchen cabinetry, shall we? Timber veneers – Cheap but irreparable In terms of longevity & beauty, solid timber used as cabinetry cladding is hard to beat. Back in the 1970’s, the technique of slicing wood to thin slices of about 3 millimetres was refined by industrial furniture makers, & this was glued onto core panels. This practice made a vast array of timber species available to the general public, & it’s now known as timber veneers. One of the best things about timber veneers is that you can choose to use an expensive or cost-effective species of timber, since it’s directly glued on top of a cheap timber substrate & use it en mass, for example, to clad a wall as well. If this was done with solid timber, a great cost would be incurred. You can use timber veneers on walls as well as the kitchen cabinetry, which will complement the look of not only your cabinetry, but create a theme of its own in the kitchen area. Easily the best advantage of timber veneers is that it’s easy to shape & it’s available in a number of species. Timber veneers are also not prone to warping or splitting, since the glue gives it strength. It’s also an affordable cladding option. Among the limitations, the greatest would be that you can only use it in low-impact areas in the kitchen, such as cupboard doors & feature walls. Also, you can’t repair timber veneers by sanding back & re-staining, which is limited to solid timber. Incorrectly installing timber veneers is another issue, so most certainly you’ll have to have a professional install the timber veneers, so even though the timber species itself can be a low-cost cladding option, the installation cost could be high. Laminate – Durable but difficult to maintain Laminate cabinets have a thin film of material which is bonded to the exterior surface. The cabinet itself can be made from an inexpensive wood or pressed wood material. The more attractive thin film, the laminate, is glued on the cabinet exterior. Laminates can come in a number of different colours & styles, from low-cost plastics, to expensive & exotic woods. Laminate cabinets have a noticeably lesser price than their solid wood counterparts. There are mainly two types of laminate materials. Hard plastic which comes in a number of different colours & textures is the most commonly used laminate. The other type of laminate is thin sheets of wood. Wood laminates, once applied over pressed wood material, give the illusion that the cabinets are made of solid wood. In order to create the effect of high-quality solid wood cabinets, high-quality wood laminates can be used to cover plywood surfaces. There are several advantages in using laminate cabinets. The most obvious would be that plastic laminate surfaces are durable & easy to clean, while also being water proof & stain resistant. Also, laminates can be used for cabinet refacing, so that the look & colour of the kitchen cabinets can be replaced without having to replace the cabinets. Laminate, however, is not without its disadvantages. One of the greatest disadvantages in laminate is that the material can peel away from the surface of the cabinet if it’s not properly attached. Also, the corners or edges may tend to swell & warp if the cabinet is exposed to water or a great deal of humidity. The edges of the laminate material are vulnerable to damage, & can be chipped after years of use. Also, even though the water repellent surface is easy to clean, it’s difficult to paint or refinish. Flexible stone veneers – Rebranding kitchen cabinetry décor After scrutinizing the timber veneers & plastic/wood laminate options, let’s take a look in a different direction entirely, shall we?Flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metamorphic stone, resulting in a 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm thin sheet of natural stone, which is attached to a backing, which is usually fibreglass, but can also be fabric or translucent. This thin sheet of natural stone is extracted from sandstone, slatestone or marble, & result in a surface that is both natural water & heat resistant, as well as extremely durable. Since you can quarry a number of thin sheets from a large rock, it is a sustainable practice than quarrying slabs from stone. Since the thin stone surface is attached to a fibreglass backing, it’s not only flexible, but light-weight as well, a single sheet being around 1 kilo. This light-weightiness makes the flexible stone veneers easy to install, not only by professional, but also by DIY enthusiasts using day-to-day household tools & glue. Flexible stone veneers can not only be installed on wood, but any kind of substrate, which is another benefit you’ll no doubt enjoy. When comparing flexible stone veneers with timber veneers, one of the main advantages that you’ll have is the durability. While timber veneers can only be installed in relatively low impact areas, flexible stone veneers can be installed in areas which can sustain high impacts, example benchtops. Further, due to the durability of the natural stone surface, unlike timber veneers, you would not have to replace stone veneers since it’ll last a lifetime with proper installation & maintenance. Finally, unlike being limited to getting professional help to install timber veneers properly, you can install flexible stone veneers on your own, with day-to-day household tools & glue, drastically reducing the cost of labour. When comparing flexible stone veneers with laminate, the main advantage would be the durability of natural stone, which unlike laminate, will not tend to peel away from the substrate with time. Also, flexible stone veneers can contract & expand, unlike laminate, which may tend to swell or warp if exposed to water or humidity. Unlike laminate, the durable stone surface is also resistant to chipping, even after years of use, similar to the rocks it’s extracted from. Finally, when compared to both laminate & timber veneers, the application of flexible stone veneers is unmatched. You can use flexible stone veneers not only in your kitchen cabinetry, but you can use it in splashbacks, benchtops, fireplaces & feature walls, creating a theme of its own. While granting you the durability of natural stone, it’ll also give the look of stone slabs, while being far more environmentally sustainable than using actual stone slabs, not to mention the significantly lower cost. All in all, flexible stone veneers are taking over the cabinetry cladding options for the many advantages that it offers over other options, including the most common timber veneers & laminate material. After all, what can be more durable or reliable than natural stone?
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How installing flexible stone veneers increase your home value
How installing flexible stone veneers increase your home value There are many reasons why you may choose to do renovations to your home. It could simply be that you’re looking for a change, but most of the time, it’ll be because you’re looking to see your home. When selling your home, it’s going to be your number one priority to do whatever needs to be done to get the best possible price you can, & this is where you’ll seek out specific solutions to grow the home value. Today let’s understand how installing flexible stone veneers can increase your home value. What are flexible stone veneers? Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with a minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metamorphic rock. It results in a thin layer of stone which is attached to a backing, which is most commonly fiberglass, but could also be fabric or translucent. This backing, with the thinness of the stone layer (1.5 mm to 2.0 mm) gives not only tremendous durability, but also ensures a light-weight & easy to install stone veneer. The stone surface provides natural water & heat resistant, which means that it can be installed both indoors & outdoors. Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on top of any substrate, including glass, tiles, cement, wood, brick & render. From floors to walls & ceilings, applications are only limited by your creativity, with the most common applications being splashbacks, feature walls, fireplaces, bathrooms, bedrooms, & furniture. Why you should consider flexible stone veneers to increase your home value? There are many reasons why you should consider flexible stone veneers to increase your home value. Let’s discuss a few of those reasons in detail. 1. Ease of installation Unlike stone slabs, flexible stone veneers are extremely light-weight, only being around 1 kilo per sheet. That, combined with the thinness, contributes to ease of installation, to the point where the product is DIY. No need for special equipment or tilers, just an angle grinder to cut the sheets, a PU adhesive to paste it, & finally a penetrative sealant on top of the surface. You’ll not only save up on labour cost, but also, it’ll be something fun for you to look forward to do in the weekend, especially if you’re a DIY enthusiast! 2. Durability The stone surface speaks for itself. Since the surface of the veneer is natural stone, it’s durable & resistant to extreme weather conditions, whether scorching hot or freezing cold. This is the main reason that it can be installed outdoors. Unlike so many other cladding options, the stone surface is also resistant to scratching & chipping, & with the proper installation & maintenance, it’s bound to last a lifetime. 3. Water & heat resistant Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are naturally water & heat resistant, since the surface is natural stone. So, you can install it in places where water & heat resistant is an absolute necessity, including splashbacks & fireplaces. 4. Versatility of application Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed both indoors & outdoors, but that’s not the best part – seeing that it can endure extreme weather conditions as well as be installed on top of any kind of substrate, applications are limitless! 5. Visual appeal Flexible stone veneers have an elegant look, whether it’s installed indoors or outdoors. The natural stone surface is unique in appearance & since each sheet is unique from the other, it creates a theme of its own. 6. Affordability Compared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, flexible stone veneers are affordable. Not only saving up on the labour cost if you do it on your own, but each sheet is extremely cost effective, especially compared with stone slabs. 7. Lightweight Unlike stone slabs, the flexible stone veneer is an extremely thin slice of rock, weighing only around 1 kilo per sheet, so it’s the perfect solution when you want an elegant stone appearance, without the weight & difficulty in installation. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights, such as stone slabs. 8. Low maintenance Once a penetrative sealant is applied on the stone surface after installation, it’ll preserve the surface & the most basic dust & day to day dirt can be easily cleaned with water. How flexible stone veneers add to the home value Since we’ve established the why, let’s understand how flexible stone veneers add to the home value, shall we? 1. Cover up damages to the surface below Let’s be honest – you’ve lived in a house for years & years, the structures in your house, whether the wall or floor, is bound to show signs of wear & tear. The best part of installing flexible stone veneers is that you can install it on almost any surface, & using the glue, you can fill in any gaps in the surface below & install the veneers to cover the damages. This means that not only are you covering up the damages, but also, you’re doing it with style. 2. Wow factor Talking about style – flexible stone veneers have the look & feel of solid stone slabs, & the moment anyone sees it, they’re bound to think that it is natural stone slabs. It’s often said that the first impression is the last impression, & in that case, flexible stone veneers offer a very pleasant experience to the viewer. 3. Create a theme For example, you can create a feature wall using the flexible stone veneers, in an otherwise bland looking room. You can also use the flexible stone veneers to create a theme or pattern of its own, depending on how you lay the stone sheets. One of the main features of the stone veneer is that you can use it outdoors, so as soon as someone enters your property, they get to enjoy the natural vibrance. 4. Add to the surface structural integrity This applies especially if the structure below is damaged. Flexible stone veneers can be applied over damaged surfaces using the glue to fill up the damages, & applying this durable thin stone sheet will add to the structural integrity of the surface below, further reinforcing it. Food for thought Flexible stone veneers are taking the Australian construction & renovation industry to the next level by offering a cladding option that is versatile in application, while also being durable & affordable. If you’re planning to add value to your house or property, flexible stone veneers will do so adding to the visual appeal & reinforcing the structural integrity. It’s a bonus that it’ll last a lifetime.
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Of flipping houses & luxury stone veneers
Of flipping houses & luxury stone veneers So, you’ve decided to sell your house. No matter what the reason, selling your house is never an easy process, & for so many different reasons. Flipping houses is generally an expensive process, inclusive of any renovations or repairs that need to be done, while also being a time-consuming process. Out of all the tasks you need to focus on when flipping houses, one of the most underrated is that of renovations & repairs of the structure, which can be both time consuming & costly, if not planned correctly. So, let’s look at an option that is both financially feasible & less time consuming while adding to the value of your property, shall we? What are flexible stone veneers? Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with a minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metamorphic rock. It results in a thin layer of stone which is attached to a backing, which is most commonly fiberglass, but could also be fabric or translucent. This backing, with the thinness of the stone layer (1.5 mm to 2.0 mm) gives not only tremendous durability, but also ensures a light-weight & easy to install stone veneer. The stone surface provides natural water & heat resistant, which means that it can be installed both indoors & outdoors. Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on top of any substrate, including glass, tiles, cement, wood, brick & render. From floors to walls & ceilings, applications are only limited by your creativity, with the most common applications being splashbacks, feature walls, fireplaces, bathrooms, bedrooms, & furniture. Why consider stone veneers as a renovation option There are many reasons why you should consider flexible stone veneers in renovations, primarily to increase your home value. Let’s discuss a few of those reasons in detail. 1. Ease of installationUnlike stone slabs, flexible stone veneers are extremely light-weight, only being around 1 kilo per sheet. That, combined with the thinness, contributes to ease of installation, to the point where the product is DIY. No need for special equipment or tilers, just an angle grinder to cut the sheets, a PU adhesive to paste it, & finally a penetrative sealant on top of the surface. You’ll not only save up on labour cost, but also, it’ll be something fun for you to look forward to do in the weekend, especially if you’re a DIY enthusiast! 2. DurabilityThe stone surface speaks for itself. Since the surface of the veneer is natural stone, it’s durable & resistant to extreme weather conditions, whether scorching hot or freezing cold. This is the main reason that it can be installed outdoors. Unlike so many other cladding options, the stone surface is also resistant to scratching & chipping, & with the proper installation & maintenance, it’s bound to last a lifetime. 3. Water & heat resistantSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are naturally water & heat resistant, since the surface is natural stone. So, you can install it in places where water & heat resistant is an absolute necessity, including splashbacks & fireplaces. 4. Versatility of applicationSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed both indoors & outdoors, but that’s not the best part – seeing that it can endure extreme weather conditions as well as be installed on top of any kind of substrate, applications are limitless! 5. Visual appealFlexible stone veneers have an elegant look, whether it’s installed indoors or outdoors. The natural stone surface is unique in appearance & since each sheet is unique from the other, it creates a theme of its own. 6. AffordabilityCompared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, flexible stone veneers are affordable. Not only saving up on the labour cost if you do it on your own, but each sheet is extremely cost effective, especially compared with stone slabs. 7. LightweightUnlike stone slabs, the flexible stone veneer is an extremely thin slice of rock, weighing only around 1 kilo per sheet, so it’s the perfect solution when you want an elegant stone appearance, without the weight & difficulty in installation. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights, such as stone slabs. 8. Low maintenanceOnce a penetrative sealant is applied on the stone surface after installation, it’ll preserve the surface & the most basic dust & day to day dirt can be easily cleaned with water. How flexible stone veneers add to the home value Since we’ve established the why, let’s understand how flexible stone veneers add to the home value, shall we? 1. Cover up damages to the surface belowLet’s be honest – you’ve lived in a house for years & years, the structures in your house, whether the wall or floor, is bound to show signs of wear & tear. The best part of installing flexible stone veneers is that you can install it on almost any surface, & using the glue, you can fill in any gaps in the surface below & install the veneers to cover the damages. This means that not only are you covering up the damages, but also, you’re doing it with style. 2. Wow factorTalking about style – flexible stone veneers have the look & feel of solid stone slabs, & the moment anyone sees it, they’re bound to think that it is natural stone slabs. It’s often said that the first impression is the last impression, & in that case, flexible stone veneers offer a very pleasant experience to the viewer. 3. Create a themeFor example, you can create a feature wall using the flexible stone veneers, in an otherwise bland looking room. You can also use the flexible stone veneers to create a theme or pattern of its own, depending on how you lay the stone sheets. One of the main features of the stone veneer is that you can use it outdoors, so as soon as someone enters your property, they get to enjoy the natural vibrance. 4. Add to the surface structural integrityThis applies especially if the structure below is damaged. Flexible stone veneers can be applied over damaged surfaces using the glue to fill up the damages, & applying this durable thin stone sheet will add to the structural integrity of the surface below, further reinforcing it. Food for thought Flexible stone veneers are taking the Australian construction & renovation industry to the next level by offering a cladding option that is versatile in application, while also being durable & affordable. This is why you need to think of flexible stone veneers for any renovation requirement you may have. While adding durability of the structure, flexible stone veneers also add to the elegance, within no time & for a relatively low cost compared with other cladding options.
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Flexible stone veneers as a floor cladding
Flexible stone veneers as a floor cladding Cladding your floor can be a tricky business. When using a cladding on your floor, it needs to be able to bear weight, easy to clean & while also being suitable to be installed on the surface below. Today, let’s discuss what flexible stone veneers are & what benefits flexible stone veneers bring when used as a floor cladding. What are flexible stone veneers? Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are sustainably extracted with a minimum carbon footprint from 100% natural metamorphic rock. It results in a thin layer of stone which is attached to a backing, which is most commonly fiberglass, but could also be fabric or translucent.This backing, with the thinness of the stone layer (1.5 mm to 2.0 mm) gives not only tremendous durability, but also ensures a light-weight & easy to install stone veneer. The stone surface provides natural water & heat resistant, which means that it can be installed both indoors & outdoors. Sketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on top of any substrate, including glass, tiles, cement, wood, brick & render. From floors to walls & ceilings, applications are only limited by your creativity, with the most common applications being splashbacks, feature walls, fireplaces, bathrooms, bedrooms, & furniture. Why consider stone veneers as an option for floor cladding There are many reasons why you should consider flexible stone veneers as an option for floor cladding. Let’s discuss a few of those reasons in detail. 1. DurabilityThe stone surface speaks for itself. Since the surface of the veneer is natural stone, it’s durable & resistant to extreme weather conditions, whether scorching hot or freezing cold, so you can install this in both indoors & outdoors floors. Unlike so many other cladding options, the stone surface is also resistant to scratching & chipping, & with the proper installation & maintenance, it’s bound to last a lifetime. After applying a sealant on top of the surface, it makes the cleaning process much easier as well. 2. Water & heat resistanceSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers are naturally water & heat resistant, since the surface is natural stone. So, you can install it in places where water & heat resistance is an absolute necessity, including the outdoor floors where it’s more prone for moisture or rain, or even the bathroom or shower floor. 3. Visual appealFlexible stone veneers have an elegant look, whether it’s installed on indoor or outdoor floors. The natural stone surface is unique in appearance & since each sheet is unique from the other, it creates a theme of its own. 4. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options like large format tiles, flexible stone veneers are extremely light-weight, only being around 1.5 kilos per standard sheet. That, combined with the thinness, contributes to ease of installation, to the point where the product is DIY. No need for special equipment or an installation team, just an angle grinder to cut the sheets, a PU adhesive to paste it, & finally a penetrative sealant on top of the surface. You’ll not only save up on labour cost, but also, it’ll be something fun for you to look forward to do in the weekend, especially if you’re a DIY enthusiast! 5. Versatility of applicationSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor floors, but that’s not the best part – seeing that it can endure extreme weather conditions as well as be installed on top of any kind of substrates used on the floor, including cement, tiles or wood, applications are limitless! You can not only install it as a cladding for your floor, but also, install it as a wall cladding too, & create a theme of its own. 6. AffordabilityCompared with other floor cladding options (including tiles) & considering the advantages it offers, flexible stone veneers are affordable. Not only saving up on the labour cost if you do it on your own, but each sheet is extremely cost effective for the benefits & unique look it offers. If you use large format tiles, they will be comparatively more expensive & prone to crack easily. 7. LightweightUnlike other cladding options, the flexible stone veneer is an extremely thin slice of rock, weighing only around 1.5 kilos per standard sheet, so it’s the perfect solution when you want an elegant stone appearance, without the weight & difficulty in installation. 8. Low maintenanceOnce a penetrative sealant is applied on the stone surface after installation, it’ll preserve the surface & the most basic dust & day to day dirt can be easily cleaned with water, so you can be rest assured that it’s perfect to use in messy areas, even outdoors! 9. Add to the substrate structural integrityThis applies especially if the floor below is damaged. Flexible stone veneers can be applied over damaged floors using the glue to fill up the damages, & applying this durable thin stone sheet will add to the structural integrity of the surface below, further reinforcing it. This is especially a useful feature if your floor has endured long years of wear & tear, & you’re installing a cladding for reasons beyond style or theme, but more focused on longevity, durability & damage control. 10. Cover up damages to the floor belowIf you’ve decided to install a cladding on your floor, it could be for more reasons than just to upgrade its look, but also because it’s bound to show signs of wear & tear, especially with years of use. The best part of installing flexible stone veneers is that you can install it on almost any floor surface, including tiles, cement & wood, & using the glue, you can fill in any damages in the floor below & install the veneers to cover the damages. This means that not only are you covering up the damages, but also, you’re doing it with style. 11. Create a themeYou can also use the flexible stone veneers to create a theme or pattern of its own, depending on how you lay the stone sheets on the floor. One of the main features of the stone veneer is that you can use it on both indoor & outdoor floors, as well as on walls, so you could use this to your advantage & lay the sheets on the outdoor floors & walls in one design, & complement it on the indoor floors & walls with another design. 12. Wow factorTalking about style – flexible stone veneers have the look & feel of solid stone slabs, & the moment anyone sees it, they’re bound to think that it is natural stone slabs installed on the floor, & it’s a wow factor to think of a stone cladding on an indoor or outdoor floor. It’s often said that the first impression is the last impression, & in that case, flexible stone veneers offer a very pleasant experience to the viewer. Food for thought Flexible stone veneers are taking the Australian construction & renovation industry to the next level by offering a cladding option that is versatile in application, while also being durable & affordable. It’s one of the best stone products which you can use on both indoor & outdoor floors due to the sheet’s flexibility, lightweight, water & heat resistance as well as ease of installation. This is why you need to think of flexible stone veneers as an excellent option for floor cladding, whether indoors or outdoors. While adding durability to the structure, flexible stone veneers also add to the elegance, within no time & for a relatively low cost compared with other cladding options used on floors.
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