How to Specify Natural Stone Veneer with Confidence
When it comes to elevating the character of a residential or commercial structure, natural stone veneer offers unmatched texture, tone, and timelessness. But if you’re an architect or designer tasked with specifying stone veneer in your next project, you may be wondering:
- What type of veneer do I need?
- How do I ensure material compatibility?
- What specs should I include in my documentation?
You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down exactly how to specify stone veneer with confidence—ensuring aesthetic appeal, structural integrity, and long-term satisfaction.
What Is Natural Stone Veneer?
Natural stone veneer is a thin layer of real stone (typically 1″–1½” thick) that can be applied to interior or exterior surfaces. Unlike faux stone, it is quarried and cut from the earth—providing authentic color variation, durability, and a high-end finish.
Key Benefit: Natural stone veneer gives you the beauty of full-depth stone at a fraction of the weight and installation time.
1. Know the Two Main Types of Veneer
Before specifying, determine which product fits your project’s needs:
Thin Stone Veneer
- Thickness: ¾” to 1½”
- Weight: <15 lbs/sq. ft.
- Installed with: Mortar directly on lath or concrete
- Ideal for: Interior walls, fireplaces, exterior siding, and remodeling work
Full-Depth Building Stone
- Thickness: 3″ to 5″
- Heavier and requires a ledge or foundation
- Ideal for: Structural walls and foundations when veneer is load-bearing
Spec Tip: Thin veneer can often be installed without additional footing or structural support—saving time and cost.
2. Include These Details in Your Project Specifications
Here’s what you’ll want to include in your construction documents or drawings:
| Specification Element | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Material | “Natural Thin Stone Veneer” |
| Product Name | E.g., “Green Mountain Veneer — Saratoga Granite Ledge” |
| Thickness Range | ¾” to 1½” |
| Stone Type | Granite, Quartzite, Mica Schist, etc. |
| Cut Style | Ledge, Square & Rectangular, Mosaic, Round, Ashlar |
| Color Range | Light grey, earth tones, blues, greens (depending on stone) |
| Installation Method | Mortared over concrete, grouted or dry-stacked appearance |
| Compressive Strength | ASTM C170 compliant |
| Water Absorption Rate | ASTM C97 compliant |
Tip: Ask us for a spec sheet or custom sample to include with your design boards.
3. Choose the Right Cut and Color for the Aesthetic
Each project demands a distinct visual character. Green Mountain Veneer offers regional blends that complement Vermont architecture and beyond.
| Style | Visual Impact | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ledge | Clean, linear, contemporary | Fireplaces, accent walls |
| Square & Rectangular | Traditional and rustic | Foundations, columns |
| Mosaic | Organic, irregular | Mountain homes, cottages |
| Round | Farmhouse, vintage | Chimneys, historic restorations |
| Ashlar | Formal, tailored look | Commercial buildings, entrances |
Pro Tip: Request a sample board to show clients the real texture and tone.
4. Coordinate with Your Installer
The best results happen when the architect, contractor, and mason are aligned early. During planning:
- Confirm substrate and waterproofing requirements
- Decide on mortar type and joint style
- Allow for expansion joints in large areas
- Specify sealing (if desired) for added protection
Green Mountain Veneer offers guidance to your installers or subs—just ask for install notes or ASTM documentation.
5. Consider Sustainability & Regional Sourcing
Architects focused on LEED certification or carbon-conscious design will appreciate:
- Locally quarried stone
- Low transportation emissions (especially for Northeast projects)
- Natural, chemical-free processing
Note: Natural stone is a lifelong material—100% recyclable and repurposable.
Ready to Specify? Let’s Make It Easy.
We offer downloadable CSI-formatted spec sheets, shop drawings, and material samples to help you get approval fast. Whether you’re designing a modern cabin in Stowe or a public-facing commercial build, we’ll help you:
- Match the right product to your vision
- Stay within budget
- Hit your project timelines
Contact Us:
- Call 802-377-3039 to speak with a stone expert
- Request a veneer sample for your next client pitch
- Send us a message
Final Thoughts
Specifying natural stone veneer doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right product, documentation, and support, you can give your project the authentic, enduring beauty it deserves.
Let us be your partner in designing with stone from concept to installation.