August 24, 2023
When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a home or building, few materials can rival the timeless elegance and charm of stone. However, choosing between natural stone and manufactured stone can be a daunting task. Each option possesses unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and project requirements. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of both natural stone and manufactured stone, helping you make an informed decision for your next home construction or renovation project.
Natural Stone
Pros:
- Authenticity and Uniqueness: Natural stone exudes a sense of authenticity and sophistication that can't be replicated by manufactured stone. Each piece is unique, showcasing distinctive patterns, colors, and textures forged by millions of years of geological processes.
- Durability and Longevity: Natural stone has stood the test of time, with many historical monuments and buildings being a testament to its durability. When properly cared for, natural stone can last for centuries, providing an investment that stands strong over time.
- Natural Appeal: The organic beauty of natural stone complements various architectural styles, from rustic to contemporary. It seamlessly blends with the environment and adds a touch of luxury to any setting.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: The allure of natural stone comes at a price. It is generally more expensive than manufactured stone due to the extraction, transportation, and limited availability of certain types.
- Weight and Installation Complexity: Natural stone is heavy, making transportation and installation labor-intensive. It may require skilled professionals to ensure a proper and secure installation. Thin or veneer natural stone is also an option, which would eliminate this point.
- Limited Color and Style Options: While natural stone offers a range of unique patterns, the color choices may be more limited compared to manufactured stone, which is artificially designed.

Natural Stone Veneers International Inc.
Yukon

Fireboulder
Livington Blend

Fireboulder
Heritage Manor
Manufactured Stone
Pros:
- Affordability: One of the primary advantages of manufactured stone is its cost-effectiveness. It provides a budget-friendly alternative to natural stone while still offering a similar appearance.
- Lightweight and Easy Installation: Manufactured stone is lighter than natural stone, making it easier to handle and transport. DIY enthusiasts may find it more manageable to install. Most manufactured stone is a thin veneer and not a full bed stone.
- Wide Range of Styles and Colors: Unlike natural stone, manufactured stone can be crafted to match various styles and color palettes. It allows for more design flexibility and can be tailored to specific project requirements.
Cons:
- Lack of Authenticity: While manufactured stone mimics the look of natural stone quite well, it may lack the unique characteristics and genuine feel of natural stone.
- Durability Concerns: Although manufactured stone is designed to be durable, it may not match the longevity of authentic natural stone. Over time, weather exposure and wear may lead to fading or chipping.
- Environmental Impact: Manufacturing synthetic materials like manufactured stone may have a higher environmental impact compared to natural stone, which is sourced directly from the earth.

Landmark Stone
Cashmere Limestone

Landmark Stone
Granite Glen Ridge
Choosing between natural stone and manufactured stone ultimately depends on your budget, project requirements, and personal preferences. If you value authenticity, uniqueness, and can afford a higher upfront cost, natural stone is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a more cost-effective option with a broader range of styles and colors, manufactured stone may be the better choice.
In either case, both options offer undeniable beauty and can elevate the aesthetics of your home or building. Whether you opt for the ancient allure of natural stone or the practical appeal of manufactured stone, incorporating this timeless material into your project will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Shop our Natural and Manufactured Stone products.
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IA | Des Moines
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4601 NW Urbandale Drive, Suite 112
Urbandale, Iowa 50322
- Phone: 515-219-7842
- Hours: 07:30 am - 04:00 pm
IL | Bridgeview
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7542 West 73rd Street
Bridgeview, Illinois 60455
- Phone: 708-607-9430
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IL | Champaign
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3200 W. Springfield
Champaign, Illinois 61822
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IL | Chicago
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850 W. Pershing Road
Chicago, Illinois 60609
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IL | Des Plaines
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821 Seegers Road
Des Plaines, Illinois 60016
- Phone: 847-860-6806
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IL | Naperville
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1768 North Aurora Road
Naperville, Illinois 60563
- Phone: 630-864-5711
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IL | New Lenox
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1300 West Maple Street
New Lenox, Illinois 60451
- Phone: 815-680-2971
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IL | Schaumburg
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409 West Wise Road
Schaumburg, Illinois 60193
- Phone: 847-860-6242
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IL | Springfield
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800 South 9th Street
Springfield, Illinois 62703
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IN | Carmel
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430 West Carmel Drive
Carmel, Indiana 46032
- Phone: 317-597-8767
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IN | Chesterton
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1631 Pioneer Trail
Chesterton, Indiana 46304
- Phone: 219-250-9859
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IN | Evansville
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3401 Mt Vernon Ave
Evansville, Indiana 47712
- Phone: 812-993-4472
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IN | Fort Wayne
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3000 N Wells St
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46808
- Phone: 260-264-7468
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IN | Indianapolis Edgewood North
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5007 W 96th St
Indianapolis, Indiana 46268
- Phone: 317-751-2334
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IN | Indianapolis Epler Ave
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1580 E Epler Ave
Indianapolis, Indiana 46227
- Phone: 317-779-1670
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IN | Indianapolis Shelby St
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5518 Shelby Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46227
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IN | Lafayette
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1799 North 9th Street
Lafayette, Indiana 47904
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IN | South Bend
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918 Oliver Plow Ct
South Bend, Indiana 46601
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MD | Baltimore
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4150 Hayward Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215
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MD | Upper Marlboro (DC)
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8315 Old Marlboro Pike
Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20772
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MI | Waterford
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6315 Highland Road
Waterford, Michigan 48327
- Phone: 248-392-3980
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MI | Whitmore Lake
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6556 Whitmore Lake Rd
Whitmore Lake, Michigan 48189
- Phone: 734-212-8454
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MN | Bloomington
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520 West 86th Street
Bloomington, Minnesota 55420
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NE | Omaha
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13801 Industrial Road
Omaha, Nebraska 68137
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PA | Reading
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200 Hartman Road
Muhlenberg, Pennsylvania 19605
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VA | Manassas
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7413 Cushing Road, Suite 100
Manassas, Virginia 20109
- Phone: 703-263-8057
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