Why Stone Veneers are the Ideal Choice for Stunning Facades
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.
Learn all
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.
Learn all
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.
Learn all
Tiny homes & luxury stone veneers – Time to renovate!
Tiny homes & luxury stone veneers – Time to renovate! Homes in Australia are generally known to be large. However, there’s a trend going against large houses, with people beginning to see that good things can come in small (or tiny) packages, namely, in the form of houses. “Tiny houses” are generally defined as a dwelling that is 37 square meters or less. Tiny houses have the functionality & the character of a permanent house & it’s fixed to the land, unlike tiny houses on wheels, build on caravans. There are also “small houses”, which is any dwelling that it less than 90 square meters. Since the average Australian home is approximately 240 square meters, it’s no surprise that even the “small house” by definition is relatively tiny to the majority of the Australia population. So, if you have a “tiny” or “small” house, you’re sure to be a connoisseur of style & keeping to date with the latest trends & upgrades which you can do to your little nest egg. If so, read on! We’re about to explore how flexible stone veneers fit in with any renovations that you may be planning for your “tiny” or “small” house. 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. For anyone who’s interest in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Using flexible stone veneers to renovate tiny homes There are many reasons why you should consider flexible stone veneers in renovations for your tiny home. Let’s discuss a few of those reasons in detail. 1. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 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 on the exterior walls of a tiny home. 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 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 exterior of a tiny home. 4. Versatility of applicationSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your tiny home renovations, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 5. Visual appealFlexible stone veneers have an elegant look, whether it’s installed on the indoor or outdoor of your tiny home. 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 for the benefits & unique stone look it offers. 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 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. 9. Cover up damages to the surface belowLet’s be honest – you’ve decided to renovate your tiny home not 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 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. 10. 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 a wow factor to think of a stone cladding on the interior or exterior of a tiny home. 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. 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. One of the main features of the stone veneer is that you can use it on the exterior of your tiny home as well as the interior, so you could use this to your advantage & lay the sheets on the exterior of the tiny home in one design, & complement it on the inside with another design. 12. 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. This is especially a useful feature if your tiny home 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. The future of tiny home renovations with natural stone veneers 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 a one-of-a-kind stone product which you can use on both indoors & outdoors of your tiny home as a renovation option due to the sheet’s flexibility, lightweight & ease of installation. This is why you need to consider flexible stone veneers for any renovation requirement you may have for your tiny home, whether it’s for the interior or exterior. 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 that are available.
Learn all
Of flexible stone veneers, home renovations & construction
Of flexible stone veneers, home renovations & construction Whether you’re building a new home, doing a home renovation, or doing any kind of construction job, it’s a matter which no doubt needs a lot of planning, research & decisions on which options you’d like to proceed with. The home renovation industry in Australia is a booming industry, & there are many products which are commonly used across residential projects simply due to large-scale availability as well as the products being more familiar to builders & construction companies. One prime example is the use of tiles in construction or renovations. Tiles have been tried & tested for so long, that it’s a more comfortable thought to settle for tiles, even when there may be more innovative, creative & long-lasting options on the table. So, today, let’s focus on a cladding option, which is extremely popular across the construction industry in Europe the United States. This is, of course, the flexible stone veneers, a cladding option that is not only capable of replacing outdated cladding options such as tiles, but also one which is able to be installed on top of any kind of substrate, & for a variety of applications. 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. For anyone who’s interested in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Why consider flexible stone veneers as a cladding option for house renovations & building construction? 1. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 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 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 outdoors. 4. Versatility of applicationSketch Australia’s flexible stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your home renovation or building construction project, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 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 for the benefits & unique stone look it offers. 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 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. 9. Cover up damages to the surface belowLet’s be honest – you’ve decided to do a home renovation not just as an upgrade, 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 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. 10. Wow factorFlexible 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 a wow factor to think of a stone cladding with versatile applications. 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. 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. One of the main features of the stone veneer is that you can use it on the exterior of your home as well as the interior, so you could use this to your advantage & lay the sheets on the exterior of your home in one design, & complement it on the inside with another design. 12. 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. This is especially a useful feature if your home 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. The future of cladding with flexible stone veneers 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 a one-of-a-kind stone product which you can use on both indoors & outdoors of your residential or commercial renovations or construction project, due to the veneer’s flexibility, lightweight & ease of installation. This is why you need to consider flexible stone veneers for any renovation requirement you may have for your home or office space, whether it’s for the interior or exterior. 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 that are available.
Learn all
Stone veneer or Natural stone veneer – The good, the bad & the correct choice
Stone veneer or Natural stone veneer – The good, the bad & the correct choice Whether you’ve been looking at different cladding options for home renovations, or to use for your new house, no doubt you would’ve come across the terms stone veneer & natural stone veneer. But what are stone veneers, & how do they differ from natural stone veer? What are the advantages in using each, & which is the option that you should go ahead with? Today, let’s explore more on each of these options. What are stone veneers? For connoisseurs of natural stone, stone veneers offer the look & feel of natural stone cost effectively. Manufactured stone veneers, also known as cultured stone or faux stone, is almost as beautiful as natural stone, but it a manmade material which is designed to look similar to the look of natural stone. With the level of different shapes, sizes & colour gradients, even for the more trained eye, it may be difficult to determine the difference between stone veneers & natural stone veneers without closer inspection. How stone veneers are made? Stone veneers are usually made out of Portland cement, lightweight natural aggregates & iron oxide pigment to add colours. Stone veneers have a longer history than we may imagine. The first stone veneer, manufactured in the late 19th century, was made of natural stone, by slicing natural stone into thick-cut stone slabs. Cement became a part of its composition in the 1950’s, however, while cement gives the stone veneer stability, unlike thick-cut natural stone, it doesn’t add to the structural feasibility. The latest process for stone veneers would be to use moulds taken from natural stone, using a process which captured the most intricate details from the original stone surface. Faux stone can even replicate the unique & rough texture of natural stone. Pros of using stone veneers? One of the main advantages in using stone veneers is due to the versatile finishes that are available to select from. Whether you want a rough/rugged texture, or an elegant/high-end colour, there’s no limit on the design possibilities that are available with stone veneers, especially since the designs can be made to replicate actual natural stone veneer surfaces. Another fact is the cost factor. Generally, natural stone veneers are relatively more expensive that stone veneers. There are also stone veneers which are DIY products, so that means that you can save up on the labour cost as well, all while offering a similar look & feel to natural stone veneers, at a relatively lesser cost. Stone veneers could also be eco-friendly as a cladding option. As an example, there are few stone veneer manufacturers who maximize the percentage of recycled raw materials while not affecting the quality of the stone, all with no toxic emissions release & the excess water is treated & reused. Ease of installation is another reason why stone veneers are also more popular, since it’s light-weight & easier to transport & work with. For the skilled, it can also be a DIY project, with use of few basic tools & use of an installation handbook.But it’s not all green pastures when deciding to go ahead with stone veneers, so let’s look at the downside of using stone veneers, shall we? Cons of using stone veneers The most obvious con of using stone veneers as opposed to natural stone veneers is the durability. Since cultures stone is a man-made product from a concrete mixture, it is more likely to break or chip, while results in that section being replaced to preserve the look of the surface. Repairing the stone veneers once chipped will be an additional cost, while also may or may not give the same original look it had.Another point to consider is that the colouring in cultured stone may not always go all the way through the stone, so a chip or a cut edge could show through as plain concrete. While natural stone veneers may also chip, the signs of wear & tear are far less obvious, & cut edges are the same colours throughout. One of the most important points to ponder would be the installation process for cultured stone. The reason for this is, improperly installed manufactured stone will look extremely unnatural. Also, it’s important to note that cultured stone doesn’t have the density to support weights, so applications should be carefully considered. For those who want to do a DIY project from cultured stone, it’s important to note that if it’s not properly water-proofed, there’s a high likelihood of erosion caused by water damage, both to the substrate & the manufactured stone. Natural stone veneers as an alternative to stone veneers So, now that we’ve understood the pros & cons of stone veneers/manufactured stone, let’s look at an alternative for stone veneers, namely natural stone veneers. What are natural stone veneers? Natural 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. Natural 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. For anyone who’s interest in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Pros of using natural stone veneers 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. 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. 2. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 3. Versatility of applicationNatural stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your home renovation or building construction project, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 4. Water & heat resistanceNatural 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 outdoors. 5. Visual appealNatural 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. 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. 7. LightweightUnlike other cladding options, the natural 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 8. AffordabilityCompared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, natural 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 stone look it offers. Food for thought – stone veneer or natural stone veneer? It all comes down to weighing the advantages between cultured stone & natural stone veneers. Sure, stone veneers are relatively cheaper, with more versatile designs & colours, is light-weight, can be a DIY project, & has a very similar look to natural stone. But in reality, man-made concrete products will never have the same level of durability that natural stone has, while natural stone will continue to look great after many years of installation, cultured stone colours may fade with time. Installation of both natural stone veneers & cultured stone may be similarly easy, but considering the longevity of natural stone veneers, it’s better to install a product once & for all, rather than having to replace parts of it after years of wear & tear, as is the case with manufactured stone. All in all, while both natural stone veneers & cultured stone have their own inherent advantages & disadvantages, one cannot deny that the natural stone veneers’ appeal is undeniably seductive to connoisseurs of arts & elegance.
Learn all
Stacked stone vs Flexible stone veneers – What’s your choice?
Stacked stone vs Flexible stone veneers – What’s your choice? If you’re thinking of a cladding option for your feature wall, splashback, fireplace or kitchen cabinetry, you would’ve definitely come across the term “stackstone”. But what is stackstone, & what are the advantages & disadvantages of using stackstone when compare with an alternative such as flexible stone veneers? Today, let’s explore what stackstone is, & how it compares to flexible stone veneers. What is stackstone? Stackstone is known in a variety of different names, such as stacked stone & stacker stone. Stackstone is essentially an old-age construction material that has been used in building designs for a very long time. Stackstone is known for its natural beauty as well as good structural integrity. Stackstone is basically a 3-dimensional stone veneer, which is made out of cut pieces of multiple natural stones. These veneers are then applied to a backing, & installed in the same way as wall tiling. Why use stackstone? There are many advantages in using stackstone, so let’s explore a few of these in detail. • Environmentally friendly building materialStackstone, as previously discussed, are made of natural stone, which includes slate, quartzite, sandstone, marble, limestone & granite, among many others. Stackstone is environmentally friendly because they are natural raw materials, as opposed to synthetic building material. Using stackstone in your commercial or home property will not leave an environmental footprint, however, there is a flipside to this as well, which we’ll discuss later. • Variety of colours & shapes to choose fromYou can choose from an endless range of stacked stone to use, from different colours to different shapes & even the type of stone you want to use. Depending on the aesthetic of your commercial or home property & the type of application, you have a variety & the freedom to choose a stackstone design which will blend with the rest of the atmosphere. • Natural appearanceUsing natural elements in your home or office adds to the beauty of your home & makes the interior more comfortable, adding an element of warmth. Since stackstone is a natural stone veneer, & will bring a cottage/farmhouse aesthetic to wherever it’s installed. • Undiminished colourSince stackstone is natural stone, the colour will not fade away with time. The texture, colour & hand-feel of stackstone is bound to last for a long time, preserving more or less of the original look it had when first installed. • DurabilityStackstone, made from natural stone, is one of the most durable natural building components you can use in your commercial or home construction project. These veneers are anti-fracture & water proof, prolonging durability. • VersatilityRegardless of what aesthetic your commercial or home is, there will most probably be a stackstone design & colour to match & complement it. There will be more traditional options, or more modern options to choose from as well, hence the versatility. There’s also versatility in terms of application, since stackstone can be used as a splashback, feature wall & even surrounding a fireplace. Flexible stone veneers as an alternative to stackstone So, now that we’ve understood the pros of stackstone, let’s look at an alternative, namely flexible stone veneers.Same as stackstone, flexible stone veneers are also a natural stone veneer, but bring an altogether different set of advantages to the table. Let’s look at what this type of stone veneer is, & what these advantages are. Based on this, let’s see whether stackstone is a better option to use as a stone cladding. What are natural stone veneers? Natural 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. Natural 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. For anyone who’s interest in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Pros of using flexible stone veneers 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. 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. 2. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 3. Versatility of applicationNatural stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your home renovation or building construction project, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 4. Water & heat resistanceNatural 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 outdoors. 5. Visual appealNatural 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. 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. 7. LightweightUnlike other cladding options, the natural 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 8. AffordabilityCompared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, natural 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 stone look it offers. Now, having seeing the advantages of both stackstone & flexible stone veneers, let’s have a look at why flexible stone veneers may be the better choice of natural stone veneers to use in your commercial or home construction project.Issues in using stackstone • Carbon footprintOne of the advantages which was discussed with stackstone is that it was environmentally friendly, however, compared with flexible stone veneers, it can have an impact in terms of the carbon footprint. The thickness of a stackstone veneer is approximately 1 inch to 2.5 inches, which means that more rock is needed to be quarried, making an impact on the carbon footprint. Flexible stone veneers, on the other hand, have a thickness of only 1.5 to 2.0 mm, so you need to quarry much less rock when compared to stackstone. • Installation is recommended to be done by a professional crewInstallation of stackstone is highly recommended to be done by a professional, since incorrectly installed stackstone can result in loose panels, water damage & other issues. Also, installation requires Thinset, a type of mortar, & application needs to be done correctly for the stackstone panel installation to endure. In comparison, flexible stone veneers can be installed easily by DIY enthusiasts, using equipment which is generally available at home, & adhesives/sealants which can easily be purchased, so no need for a professional. • Installation will be both time consuming & costlyStackstone, which uses mortar for installation, will be relatively more time consuming to install than flexible stone veneers, which requires only an adhesive & sealant. Also, since installation is recommended to be done by a professional for stackstone, the labour cost will definitely be more costly than flexible stone veneers, which is essentially a DIY product. • Limited versatility in applicationEven though stackstone is versatile in applications, there are limitations to this when compared with flexible stone veneers. Stackstone, being heavier than flexible stone veneers, cannot be installed on structures that cannot bear weight, also, it’s not as supple as flexible stone veneers, so installation on curved surfaces is going to be far untidier & difficult, even if it’s achieved.Add to this, stackstone cannot be used for light featured, as opposed to flexible stone veneers. Since some flexible stone veneers have a translucent backing, you can use a backlight behind it for illuminating features, which definitely cannot be done with a products as thick as stackstone. Closing thoughts – Stackstone or flexible stone veneer? At the end of the day, both stackstone & flexible stone veneers are natural stone veneers, so in terms of durability, you’re safe regardless of which product you choose. Also, both these products are water & heat resistant, so applications would be mostly similar. Look-wise, since both stackstone & flexible stone veneers are extracted from natural stone, they will be somewhat similar & have a rough hand feel to it. Both stackstone & flexible stone veneers require little effort to clean & maintain. This is mostly where the similarities end. Stackstone is definitely more difficult to install when compared with flexible stone veneers, which is a DIY product, so you’ll need a professional to install stackstone, meaning more cost in terms of labour, & it will also take more time to install when compared with flexible stone veneers. Apart from this, if you’re structures cannot bear weight, or require a slight degree of curvature, then without doubt, flexible stone veneer is the better option compared with stackstone. All in all, depending on the type of application, the flexibility required of the stone panel, & whether your budget covers installation cost will help you to make the decision between using stackstone & flexible stone veneers.
Learn all
Large format tiles vs Flexible stone veneers
Large format tiles vs Flexible stone veneers Whether you’ve been looking at cladding options for your floor, walls, splashbacks, bathrooms or bedrooms, no doubt you’ve likely done some research on large format tiles. Since tiles come in a variety of sizes, shapes & materials, they are, without doubt, a very popular choice for both floor & wall covering. Large format tiles, in particular, have become extremely popular over the past few years, owing to the elegant appearance & the illusion of spaciousness that they create in a small area.But wait – before you go ahead with your decision on using large format tiles as a cladding option, whether for flooring or walls, it’s important to weight the pros & cons, & to make a better decision, especially if there is a more suitable alternative. So, let’s take a few minutes & see what large format tiles are, & whether or not they’re the best cladding option available to you. What are large format tiles? Large format tiles are also known as “slab tiles”, due to their large size & thin profile, & usually measure 12 by 24 inches (sometimes, even larger). Same as most regular tiles, slab tiles are a type of ceramic or porcelain tiles. These large format tiles are known for durability, ease of maintenance, & are used in both residential & commercial flooring more popularly, especially due to the sleek & modern look it brings.There are a few features in large format tiles that make it a crowd pleaser – slab tiles are usually available in a wide variety of colours, patterns & finishes, & these finishes can bring a matte, polished or textured look, depending on what you’re going for. Applications are almost as wide as the type of tiles, since it can be used in living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms & even outdoors. Most importantly, large format tiles are ideal to give a seamless appearance, since there are fewer grout lines to interrupt the flow.Keeping this in mind, let’s explore the advantages & disadvantages of slab tiles. What are the pros in using large format tiles? • Seamless appearance due to lesser grout lines This is the main advantage in using large format tiles. Since slab tiles are larger than standard tiles, they do not need as much as grout lines to cover a space of application. This helps to create an uninterrupted & smooth surface, which in turn gives the area an elegant & spacious feel to it. • The spacious feel it gives to any size room The 2nd most priority advantages you’ll consider in using slab tiles is that they help to create an illusion of spaciousness, especially in unusually small or crowded rooms. At the same time, since large format tiles are larger than standard tiles, they make an area feel more expensive & richer than it really is. • Easy maintenance When compared with standard tiles or small tiles, slab tiles are easier to maintain. Since large format tiles have lesser grout lines to clean, it’s relatively easier to keep the tiles looking clean & sparkling. • Flexibility in choosing designs Large format tiles, same as standard tiles or small tiles, offer an almost unlimited amount of design options, from different colours to patterns & textures, so you could create a unique look in your home or office. It also helps substantially that slab tiles can be installed both indoors & outdoors.So, we discussed the pros of using slab tiles, & this is mainly it. Shall we now have a look at the cons of using large format tiles?What are the cons in using large format tiles? • Installation can be challenging & time consuming One of the main disadvantages in using slab tiles is that they will definitely need skilled professionals for installation. The large size, while have its own benefits, are heavier than standard tiles, which in turn means it’s more difficult to handle & install. Also, if the tiles aren’t installed properly, they will crack or get damaged with time, & repair costs can be quite high. • More likely to crack or chip than standard tiles Slab tiles are more likely to crack than standard tiles or smaller tiles. The large & heavy profile means that it’s difficult to handle & install, which means that improper or incorrect installation results in cracks & damage over time. One crucial point to be noted here is that slab tiles are less flexible than standard tiles or smaller tiles, so they are more vulnerable to damages from impacts. • Cost factor when compared with standard tiles Slab tiles are much more expensive when compared with standard tiles or smaller tiles, simply because the large size increases the cost to produce & transport, while also requiring special handling. In addition to this, large format tiles require skilled professionals for installation, so you can be sure that the labour cost is going to be higher as well. • The need for professional installers With the current economy, on top of purchasing the already expensive slab tiles, you’ll also have to get down skilled professionals for installation, which will increase the labour cost. Large format tiles are definitely not a DIY product, not even as much as the standard tiles or smaller tiles, so once you measure the area of application, you can see whether the high labour cost can be included in the budget for the renovation project.Considering the pros & cons in using slab tiles, you may feel the need to see whether there’s a better alternative. Thankfully, there is! This is where natural stone veneers come in. What are natural stone veneers? Natural 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. Natural 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. For anyone who’s interest in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Pros of using flexible stone veneers 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. 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. 2. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 3. Versatility of applicationNatural stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your home renovation or building construction project, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 4. Water & heat resistanceNatural 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 outdoors. 5. Visual appealNatural 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. 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. 7. LightweightUnlike other cladding options, the natural 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 8. AffordabilityCompared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, natural 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 stone look it offers.So, considering the advantages of both flexible stone veneers & large format tiles, which would you prefer to use in your office or home renovation project? Food for thought… There is no doubt that large format tiles come with their own advantages, but you need to make a good decision thinking in the long term, especially since whichever cladding option you choose needs to last a long time & need to be within your budget. Large format tiles may weight around 15 to 60 kilo’s per square meter, & this is a very important factor you need to consider, especially for transport. If your project is a little distant from the place that you’re getting the tiles from, then it’s more than likely that a few tiles may chip, crack or break during the transport, unless it’s adequately packaged to withstand the journey. Not only this, but it becomes more difficult to handle during installation as well, & there’s a chance for a few more to crack, break or chip during installation unless the professional installers are being extremely careful. This issue isn’t something to consider with flexible stone veneers. The standard natural stone veneer weighs around 1.5 kilos, while the larger format natural stone veneer will weigh around 6.5 kilos, so comparatively, there’s a big difference in the weight of these two. On top of that, natural stone veneers are flexible enough to go on curves, which large format tiles definitely can’t do. Durability-wise, while large format tiles are definitely durable enough for some smaller projects, they cannot equal the natural stone surface in terms of durability. Finally, even if you’re not a DIY enthusiast, you can be sure that you can find a local tiler who’d install the natural stone veneers for a much better price than what they would charge to install the much more heavier & difficult to handle slab tiles. Choose wisely!
Learn all
Wallpaper vs natural stone veneers – Choosing the best cladding option
Wallpaper vs natural stone veneers – Choosing the best cladding option If you’re on the lookout for a good cladding option for your feature wall or bedroom, no doubt you would’ve come across one of the most common options which has a loyal following since the beginning of cladding applications. That is, of course, wallpaper. While wallpaper certainly has many benefits, it’s also not without its own weakness, so let’s take a look at whether the pros outweigh the cons, & whether there is a better option that is highly underrated, yet taking the construction industry by surprise for its durability, elegance & ease of installation. What is wallpaper? Wallpaper is generally defined as decorative coatings that cover the surface of interior walls. It’s usually & most commonly applied to walls in commercial or residential properties. Wallpaper has been used to decorate interior spaces/interior walls since the renaissance, especially using the woodcut technique of “wood cutting” in printing. While both Britain & France take pride in pioneering the production of what’s known as European wallpapers, the origins of wallpaper is generally attributed to ancient China, since the Chinese covered their walls with rice stalk paper at least 200 years BC. However, modern wallpaper, unlike this ancient material, is changing in terms of production process, design & material as well. With this in mind, let’s now have a look at the advantages in using wallpaper on the walls of your commercial or residential project. Advantages of using wallpaper • Versatility – Since there’s a number of different patterns, colours & textures to select from, wallpapers can be used for a variety of different looks. Whether it’s bold, graphic prints, or subtle, textured designs, wallpapers are sure to match any atmosphere • Durability – Good quality wallpapers is made to last, & includes different options that are meant to endure wear & tear, fading & even staining. This also means that it’s a cost-effective option in the long term, since you won’t have to replace it as frequently as other cladding options • Ease of installation – Generally, wallpaper is easy & efficient to install, even though it does require some skill & experience. There are also many different tutorials that are available online to help DIY enthusiasts in the installation process • Covering imperfections – From covering cracks or uneven surfaces, wallpaper can be used to subtle cover up imperfections in walls & ceilings. It can even go as far as to cover up other design flaws, including unattractive architectural features or awkward room layouts • Ease of maintenance – Since most wallpaper options are able to withstand regular cleaning & even mild moisture exposure, wallpaper is generally easy to clean & maintain. Therefore, it makes it a rather easy choice for even spaces like bathrooms or kitchens, where moisture & humidity are easily found • Personality – Wallpaper can contribute to the personality & the style of any space, whether commercial or residential. You can use a bold print to make a statement, or a subtle texture that adds to the depth & interest, & thereby make that space feel unique to you Since we’ve covered most of the critical advantages of using wallpaper, let’s also have a look at the disadvantages of using wallpaper. Disadvantages of using wallpaper • Complications in removal – Wallpaper is especially known to be difficult to remove, especially in cases whether it’s been applied for a long time or in multiple layers. In addition, removing wallpaper may require specialized tools such as a scraper or a steamer, & can hence be a time-consuming process • High risk of damage – Wallpaper is also known to be easily damaged, especially if used in areas that are prone to moisture such as bathrooms or kitchens, or even in high-traffic areas. Water damage, tears & scratches can all contribute to changing the original appearance of the wallpaper • Good lifespan with a limit – While wallpaper has a relatively long lifespan, it may need to be replaced more frequently than some other durable cladding options. • Cost – Depending on whether you choose to use a high-end or designer option wallpaper, they can be a relatively expensive choice as well, especially considering the durability & how prone to damage they are. If you’re not a DIY enthusiast, you’ll have to hire a professional to install the wallpaper, which adds to this cost further • Limitations in design flexibility – Even though there are a variety of different wallpaper designs available at your disposal, once you’ve made your selection, you’re limited in terms of changing the design or colour scheme of your room Now that we’ve learned both the advantages & disadvantages of using wallpaper, shall we have a look at a more durable, elegant, weather-resistant option that’s also easy to install on any surface with a limitless number of applications? Let’s talk about natural stone veneers. What are natural stone veneers? Natural 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. Natural 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. For anyone who’s interest in DIY products, you can be sure that this is the best stone product that you can install on your own, with a few household tools & easily available adhesives & sealants. Pros of using flexible stone veneers 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. 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. 2. Ease of installationUnlike most cladding options, 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! 3. Versatility of applicationNatural stone veneers can be installed on both indoor & outdoor surfaces, 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 for your home renovation or building construction project, from indoor & outdoor floors to walls & even ceilings. Common applications that’s popular include splashbacks, feature walls, fireplace exteriors & even furniture! It’s also a beautiful product to install on your cabinetry, bathrooms & bedrooms. 4. Water & heat resistanceNatural 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 outdoors. 5. Visual appealNatural 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. 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. 7. LightweightUnlike other cladding options, the natural 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. It’s also perfect for installation on structures that are unable to bear heavy weights. 8. AffordabilityCompared with other cladding options & considering the advantages it offers, natural 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 stone look it offers. Conclusion It’s without doubt that wallpaper has its own uses, but compared with natural stone veneers, let’s have a look at where you would rather use the natural stone veneer, shall we? • Area with high level of traffic or moisture – Let’s face it, the natural water & heat resistant stone veneer is ideal to use in an area with high level of traffic or moisture such as bathrooms or splashback applications rather than wallpaper• Area where you anticipate damages – Wallpapers, while being durable for most situations, can tend to tear or rip, & it goes without saying the natural stone veneers cannot be easily damaged• Areas where you need a unique look – Wallpaper, while being unique in its own way, doesn’t have the same class or elegance that natural stone veneer has• Outdoors – If you’re planning an installation outdoors, the extreme weather resistant stone surface of the natural stone veneers is a much better choice than wallpapers• If you’re planning on doing many different types of applications – Unlike wallpaper, the applications of natural stone veneers are almost limitless – you can install it both outdoors & indoors, on walls, floors & ceilings To conclude, natural stone veneers are certainly an option that you should look into if you’re looking at cladding options, definitely if you’ve already considered wallpaper. From durability to versatility in application to ease of installation, natural stone veneers are certainly revolutionizing the Australian construction industry, & with good reason!
Learn all
Blog posts
Blog post
Give your customers a summary of your blog post
Blog post
Give your customers a summary of your blog post
Blog post
Give your customers a summary of your blog post