Stone siding lends your home an air of permanence. However, the fine craftsmanship it takes to properly install stone is hard to come by. The costs are usually very high in comparison to other types of siding. Limestone also presents occasional problems with staining. Because of these issues, a number of manufacturers have developed faux stone options for homeowners who want the look of rock without the hefty price tag.

Concrete Stone

Portland concrete is sometimes used as a stone substitute. The concrete is blended in different natural colors and poured into molds that imitate the shape of real stones. Unlike a stone wall that is built solid, these faux rocks are glued to a substrate to form the façade. If the concrete blocks aren’t attached correctly, this type of siding may come off over time. Otherwise, it is very durable and long lasting.

Plastic Faux Stone

High quality plastics such as polyurethane are molded in sheets for easy installation. These come in a variety of patterns to mimic various stacking methods for real stone. There are plenty of fade resistant color choices as well. Some products offer an insulating value of up to R6 making this siding a potential energy saver.

The material is light enough that no special expertise is needed to affix the “stone” sheets to the exterior of your home. Just be careful to select a product that offers nicely finished edges – otherwise your faux stone siding won’t fool anyone. This type of material can be sprayed down with a hose every 6 months or so to remove dirt. No other maintenance is required.

Old fashioned stucco siding is a favorite for Mediterranean and Spanish “mission” style homes. High quality, properly applied stucco can remain in good condition for decades with minimal maintenance. This material is made of cement, sand, and lime mixed with water. It is generally applied over a mesh base in several coats. The final layer may be hand textured to add aesthetic appeal. If tinted concrete is used, the exterior can be left free of paint.

Traditional Versus Synthetic Stucco

Cement based traditional stucco siding is very thick and impact resistant. Rather than degrading over time, it continues to cure and gain strength. It is porous but dries readily – discouraging mold growth that can cause indoor air contamination. This material can be used in any environment and the occasional small crack is not of immediate concern.

In contrast, some types of synthetic stucco (particularly those that are foam based) do not release moisture easily. This makes them best suited to dry climates. Any openings, cracks, or other points of penetration must be carefully sealed to prevent decay of the underlying structural materials.

All types of stucco offer good insulation and fire resistance. Synthetic stucco is less prone to staining over time. It is the more expensive siding, but both versions have a similar finished appearance. Either one can be patched to repair damage. Traditional stucco can also be sprayed down with a garden hose or scrubbed with detergent if it gets dirty.