Getting anything in a "fake" version sounds like a bad idea. However, that is definitely not the case with fake stone veneer. First of all, fake stone veneer takes a smaller bite out of your budget. One reason for the cost savings is weight. Fake stone is much lighter than its more authentic cousin. But that doesn't mean it isn't durable--it is. If you have been dismissing fake stone veneer because you don't want anything fake, you should take another look at the issue.

Fake stone veneer, in its most basic form, is colored and molded cement. Now, that may not sound attractive. But in reality, today's fake stone veneer is both beautiful and believable. Even a close inspection fails to detect the difference, unless you're an experienced stone mason. In fact, many homeowners who can afford to pay for the real stuff have begun to opt for fake stone veneer simply because it looks so good.

Fake stone veneer costs less. Homes with stone exteriors tend to have a "warm" look or project an "Old World charm." But sometimes here in the new world, we have to worry about cold hard cash. The good news is that you can achieve the exact look you want for a lot less money with fake stone veneer. How much less? Believe or not, fake stone veneer generally is two to three times less expensive than real stone. That means you save 30% to 60%. On the other hand, it also means you can put up three times as much stone.

A lot of the cost savings come for the dramatically lower weight of fake stone veneer. The lightness of the material means that installation is easier. Support stones are not required to hold up the veneer. Surface preparation is not as demanding, and the same amount of stone veneer can be accomplished by fewer workers. Fake stone veneer is being embraced by many mason contractors because of the costs savings for their business. Architects are coming on board as well.

Don't dismiss fake stone veneer simply because of the word "fake." Fake stone veneer is lightweight, but durable. It is beautiful, yet inexpensive. And it's showing up on some of the best homes in the country. You should seriously consider the use of this material for any stone project you have in mind, even if you have to use a different word in your head.