This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting the perfect stone materials and design strategies to ensure your steps and treads are as practical as they are eye-catching. 

What Are the Best Materials for Outdoor Steps? 

You should consider factors like durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Natural stone is a highly recommended option due to its ability to withstand the elements while offering a timeless look. Granite, for example, is exceptionally durable and well-suited for high-traffic areas and cold climates.  

Concrete is another popular choice, with pre-cast options and modular units (smaller blocks). Builders can also face the concrete risers with smaller stones and use natural stone coping for the treads. 

What Are the Best Natural Stones for Outdoor Steps and Treads? 

Natural stone is an ideal choice for outdoor steps due to its strength, durability, and timeless appearance. Popular options include: 

• Granite: Known for its density and weather resistance, granite is a top choice for outdoor steps. It’s available in a variety of colours, from light grey to deep black, making it a versatile option for many landscape styles. 
• Limestone: Offering a more refined and classic look, limestone steps are often used in traditional or formal landscapes. Limestone is durable but can be more susceptible to wear over time if exposed to harsh weather conditions. 
• Flagstone: This stone features flat pieces that create a rustic and organic look. Flagstone can also be used to face existing concrete or wooden steps for added durability and style. 

What Should You Consider When Designing Stone Steps? 

When designing outdoor steps, it’s important to consider looks and practicality. Key factors include: 

• Step Depth and Height: For safety and comfort, each step should be 12-18 inches deep and no more than 7 inches high. This ensures a comfortable stride and minimizes the risk of tripping. 
• Tread Overhang and Width: The tread, or the part of the step you walk on, should extend slightly beyond the riser below, typically by 1 to 2 inches, to create a more visually appealing and comfortable step. The tread width should also be considered, with wider treads (around 14-16 inches) offering a more gradual ascent, which can add elegance and ease of use to your steps. 
• Drainage: Outdoor steps need proper drainage to prevent water pooling. Each step should be slightly tilted forward, about 1/8 inch per foot, to direct water off the surface. 
• Material Thickness: For durability, steps should be at least 6-7 inches thick to handle foot traffic and weather exposure. 

How do Concrete Steps Compare to Natural Stone? 

Concrete blocks offer a more cost-effective alternative to solid natural stone. While they provide a similar look, blocks may be easier to install and less expensive. However, solid natural stone is ultra-durable and better suited for high-traffic areas or projects exposed to harsh weather conditions. 

How Should Stone Steps Be Installed? 

Proper installation is the key to longevity for your stone steps. A solid foundation of compacted gravel or A-gravel is essential, typically 4-6 inches deep, followed by a layer of bedding sand. Starting from the bottom step and working upward ensures that each step is stable. Stones should overlap slightly, and each step should be set with a slight forward pitch for drainage. 

What Materials Can I Use for Risers? 

For outdoor steps, risers can be made from a variety of materials that complement your treads and overall landscape design. One excellent option is to use natural stone risers that match your treads. 

Alternatively, you can use materials like brick, poured concrete, pre-cast concrete, or smaller stones. Some homeowners also choose to face existing concrete steps with flagstone or other natural stone veneers to achieve a similar effect. The key is to choose a material that is weather-resistant and complements the style of your outdoor space. 

What Maintenance Do Stone Steps Require? 

Maintenance for natural stone steps is minimal but essential for long-term performance. Regularly cleaning the surface with water and a mild detergent can prevent the buildup of dirt and algae. 

How Do You Integrate Stone Steps into a Slope? 

For sloped landscapes, stone steps are ideal for both functionality and erosion control. Steps should be built into the natural slope, with retaining walls or risers used to hold the earth in place. Natural stone blends seamlessly into the landscape, making it an attractive solution for connecting different levels of your yard. 

What Are Popular Design Trends for Stone Steps in 2024? 

Current trends in outdoor landscaping steps include: 

• Mixed Materials: Combining different types of stone or integrating materials like wood or concrete creates visual contrast. 
• Sustainable Designs: Using locally sourced stone reduces environmental impact and creates a natural, cohesive look. 
• Lighting Integration: Adding recessed lighting into the steps or along the edges enhances safety and highlights the stone’s texture. 

Level-Up Your Landscaping with Veneer & Natural Stone Steps Today 

Ready to transform your outdoor space with beautiful, durable stone steps? At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide range of high-quality natural stone, concrete and stone veneer products to suit any landscape design. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help bring your vision to life. 

The post Steps and Treads – Natural Stone Ideas for the Outdoors appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

What’s the Purpose of a Retaining Wall?  

The primary purpose of a retaining wall is to counteract the forces of gravity and stabilize sloped landscapes, preventing soil erosion and providing support for vertical grade changes. By doing so, it holds back soil and rocks, effectively turning a hill or slope into a flat surface. Beyond this functional aspect, retaining walls can also serve aesthetic purposes, acting as a design element in landscaping, defining spaces, or providing terraced garden areas. They can enhance the overall appearance of outdoor spaces, making them both practical and decorative. 

How Do I Know I Need a Retaining Wall? 

Steep slopes on your property can benefit from retaining walls since they minimize erosion. If you often notice pools of water accumulating after rainfall, a retaining wall can help direct this runoff and protect your landscape. 

For those looking to elevate their garden’s aesthetics, retaining walls can be a design choice, creating terraces or emphasizing certain areas. They also serve as crucial defences, shielding structures from encroaching soil. 

What Materials Are Commonly Used for Retaining Walls? 

Several materials can be used for retaining walls, each offering unique benefits. The most common ones include: 

• Natural Stone: This offers a timeless aesthetic, with types like armour stone, and flagstone being popular choices. 
• Concrete Blocks: These are strong, durable, and can be designed to look like natural stone. 
• Timber: Though not as long-lasting as stone or concrete, wood offers a rustic appearance but may require replacement over time due to decay. 
• Brick: While less common, bricks can provide a classic look and substantial strength. 

How Tall Should My Retaining Wall Be? 

The height of a retaining wall is primarily determined by the materials used and local building codes. Generally, gravity walls (those that rely on their weight) can be up to 3-4 feet tall. Taller walls, especially those over 4 feet, typically require additional reinforcement and should be designed by professionals. Always check local regulations when planning a retaining wall. 

What Are the General Steps for Building a Retaining Wall? 

1. Site Assessment: Start by assessing the site, noting the slope, type of soil, and any water drainage issues. 
2. Design & Planning: Decide on the height, length, materials, and layout of the wall. If it’s a larger wall, consider consulting a professional. 
3. Digging the Trench: Dig a trench that’s deep and wide enough to accommodate the base material and the first row of your wall material. 
4. Laying the Base: Fill the trench with a layer of base material (like gravel) and compact it. This provides a solid foundation. 
5. Building the Wall: Starting from the lowest point, lay the first row of materials, ensuring they’re level. Continue stacking, making sure to offset the seams for added stability. 
6. Install Drainage: Place a drainage pipe behind the wall, covering it with gravel. This prevents water buildup, which can damage the wall. 
7. Backfilling: As you build the wall, backfill it with gravel to support and stabilize it. 
8. Finishing Touches: Once the desired height is achieved, cap the wall if necessary and landscape around it. 

Do I Need Drainage for My Retaining Wall? 

Absolutely. Drainage is crucial for the longevity of a retaining wall. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate behind the wall, increasing pressure and potentially causing the wall to fail. Installing gravel and drainage pipes behind the wall helps direct water away, reducing the risk of damage. 

How Do I Ensure My Retaining Wall is Stable? 

Stability is achieved through a proper foundation, correct design, and the right materials. Typically, a trench is dug and filled with a base material like gravel. The wall should lean slightly into the soil it’s retaining (this is called a ‘batter’). Using geogrids, which are mesh-like materials, can also reinforce the wall. 

Can I Build a Retaining Wall Myself? 

While small, decorative retaining walls are a relatively accessible DIY project, larger wall projects, especially those over 3-4 feet, should involve professionals. This ensures the wall is structurally sound, adheres to local codes, and has proper drainage. 

What Can I Plant Near My Retaining Wall? 

Planting near a retaining wall can enhance its aesthetic and help with drainage. Opt for plants with deep roots for erosion control, like shrubs and certain perennials. Avoid trees or plants with expansive root systems, as they can compromise the wall’s integrity. 

How Do I Choose the Right Retaining Wall Material for My Project? 

When selecting materials for a retaining wall, consider factors like durability, aesthetics, and cost. Natural stone is resilient and offers a timeless appeal, while concrete blocks provide strength and can be cost-effective. Wood, although organic and rustic-looking, may decay over time. It’s essential to research various options and perhaps consult with local professionals or suppliers to ensure the chosen material aligns with the project’s purpose, desired look, and local conditions. 

What Is the Best Type of Stone for Retaining Walls? 

When considering natural stones for retaining walls, think of practicality without compromising on appearance. Armour stone is renowned for its robustness and can withstand harsh conditions. Flagstone, being flat, is easy to work with and creates a sleek, even finish. Remember, the right stone makes all the difference in the wall’s longevity and visual appeal. 

How Long Can I Expect My Retaining Wall to Last?   

The lifespan of a retaining wall depends on the installation, materials used, and maintenance. Concrete and stone walls can last for decades, often 50-100 years, with proper care. Timber walls have a shorter lifespan, typically between 10-20 years, due to potential decay. 

Building a Retaining Wall? Here’s Why You Should Choose Grand River Natural Stone  

Builders, landscapers, and homeowners from across Southwestern Ontario trust us for quality, variety, and value. Our competitive pricing, unparalleled product range, and commitment to customer service make us industry leaders. 

Building a retaining wall is an investment in both form and function. With Grand River Natural Stone, you get the assurance of quality, variety, and unmatched customer service. Contact us today to get your project started! 

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The post Thinking of Building a Retaining Wall? Check Out This Comprehensive FAQ Guide appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

As Beautiful as Full-size Brick

Considering the aesthetics, durability and affordability of brick veneer siding as compared to real brick, veneer siding is often a winner.

In terms of appearance, anyone would be hard-pressed to tell the difference between full-size brick and brick veneer once installed and pointed with mortar. Also,

It lasts as long as brick when installed correctly, and offers significant savings.

At Grand River Natural Stone Ltd. we offer a beautiful selection of both Brick Veneers and Full Size Brick. Come in and allow us to show you what we have. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you.

Use an Experienced Installer

Correct installation, however, is vital if brick veneer is to stand the test of time. Shortcuts may lead to problems from moisture ingress or thermal flexing throughout the seasons. Although installing brick veneer requires less skill than bricklaying, insist on an installer who has significant experience with the product.

If you will be doing the installing, be certain that you follow the directions provided, carefully.

Step 1: Stripping Off the Old Siding

Unless the exterior of your house is concrete (or this is a new construction home), siding must be removed in order to expose the sub-siding, which is usually OSB or plywood sheathing. On top of the sub-siding, there should be an existing moisture barrier.

In modern construction, a high-density polyethylene sheet is used for the moisture barrier, but older homes may be wrapped with asphalt-impregnated paper. Whatever the material is, as long as it is in good condition, it can remain in place. If there is no barrier, one must be added.

Before continuing with additional layers, stainless steel flashing is installed at the bottom edge of the sub-siding. It is placed under the moisture barrier. The bottom of the flashing must have a clearance of 2 inches if it is above pavement or 4 inches if above soil.

Step 2: Preparing the Remaining Layers beneath the Veneer

If you desire to increase the amount of insulation in your home’s exterior walls, a layer of closed-cell foam insulation can be attached to the sub-siding at this point. This step is optional, but very common.

Whether or not you add insulation, the next layer must be a special mesh material called a drainage mat or weep. The drainage mat provides an escape channel for any moisture that penetrates the veneer, adhesive and lath layers.

The next layer outward from the drainage mat is a metal mesh with diamond-shaped holes, called lath, to which the first coat of mortar will be applied. The mesh should be galvanized to prevent rusting. It is critical that it be fastened securely to the wall studs beneath the sub-siding, not to only the sheathing. Depending on whether the wall studs are wood or metal, barbed nails or metal-cutting screws hold the mesh in place.

Step 3: The Parge Coat

Once the metal mesh is in place, the next step is to add a parge coat of mortar on top of it. After that coat is set, another thinner layer of mortar is applied. It is this layer to which the brick veneer adheres. Special mortar additives can increase adhesion, but these are optional.

Estimating Costs

The fundamental cost of replacing siding with brick veneer will be based on the number of square feet to cover. After that, there are several variables that enter into the equation.

For instance, some types of siding may cost more to remove and dispose of. Labour costs will be higher for multistory homes. Material waste and labour varies depending on the number of corners, doors and windows that must be worked around.

Come into Grand River Natural Stone Ltd. or give us a call. We are happy to help you put together a materials list and give you a quotation.

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The post Your Complete Guide to Installing Brick Veneer appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Ledgestone veneer offers a cost-effective and attractive option, both indoors and outdoors. This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when choosing ledgestone for your project, explore common applications, and provide tips for maintaining your ledgestone features.

How to Choose Ledgestone Veneer

When choosing a product for your project, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the stones, as well as the colour and texture. You should also consider the specific use of the product, such as whether it will be exposed to the elements or used in a high-traffic area.  

For even better results, consider these additional factors as well: 

• Assess the purpose of your project—is it purely decorative or functional?  
• Consider whether it will be indoors or outdoors 
• Choose a texture that suits your aesthetic (smooth, natural-top, varied, etc.) 
• Look for a reputable stone supplier that carries high-quality, durable products  
• Consider cost and budget – you can purchase both natural stone ledgestone and concrete veneers made to look like the real thing 
• Ensure product availability in the necessary quantity 

By taking these factors into account, you can make a more informed decision for your project and ensure that the end result is exactly what you want. 

Common Applications of Ledgestone 

Ledgestone style veneers can be used for a variety of projects, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of the most common placements: 

Outdoor Features: 

• Outdoor kitchens and barbecues 
• Retaining walls 
• Fire pits and fireplaces 

Indoor Features: 

• Kitchen backsplashes 
• Fireplace surrounds 
• Accent walls 
• Bathroom and shower surrounds 

Ready to build your new ledgestone feature? Read our guide on building stunning features with ledgestone!

How to Properly Maintain Your Ledgestone

To ensure your ledgestone features remain beautiful and durable for years to come, it’s important to follow proper maintenance practices:

Regular Cleaning:

• Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean the surface periodically.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the stone’s texture and colour.

Sealing:

• Apply a high-quality stone sealer to protect against moisture and stains.
• Reapply the sealer as recommended by the manufacturer, typically every 1-2 years for outdoor applications and every 3-5 years for indoor uses.

Inspect for Damage:

• Regularly check for any cracks or loose stones, especially after extreme weather conditions.
• Promptly repair any damage to prevent further deterioration.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your ledgestone looking its best and ensure its longevity in your project.

Get the Best Building Materials at Grand River Natural Stone  

Choosing the right type of ledgerock for your home improvement project can completely elevate its look and ensure your upgrades last for years to come. For a wide selection of high-quality ledgestone & stone veneer products, visit Grand River Natural Stone. Our team is always on hand to help you choose the right building supplies for your needs and provide expert advice. 

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The post How Do I Choose The Right Ledgestone Veneer Product For My Project? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Masonry buildings are the oldest in existence. We can travel all around the world to see how they’ve held up against the test of time. It’s an attestation to their incredible strength and adaptability in modern times. Although much of the world looks for the cheapest alternative, there’s no denying that the resilience of masonry products far exceeds other materials used in commercial and residential builds. 

Clay and concrete/cement bricks are two of the most preferred choices for builders, both past and present, but are there significant differences between the two? There certainly are, and today we’re going to tell you about them to help best determine which might be more suitable for your specific project! 

Clay Bricks 

Clay bricks have been used for thousands of years. They are essentially formed by mixing ground clay with water, forming them into a brick, drying and then firing them in a kiln (basically a giant oven). Firing clay bricks causes a chemical reaction to occur in the clay, which leads to a permanent hardening and curing of the brick to stand up to the weather and weight of construction. 

Clay bricks are what most people think of when they hear “brick architecture” and are certainly a more aesthetic choice when it comes to their natural appearance. Both clay and concrete bricks are fire resistant, but clay bricks have an exceptionally long lifespan, reaching into the range of 1000+ years as opposed to the 60–100-year expectancy of cement bricks. 

Plus, they are 2.5 to 3 times stronger than cement bricks and are also better insulators when it comes to keeping a structure warm. 

Thinking about adding clay or concrete brick to your home exterior? At Grand River Natural Stone, we can help! Give our team a call today.

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Concrete Bricks 

Concrete bricks and cement bricks are used interchangeably to refer to the same types of products. Most are typically a combination of Portland cement, aggregates, and water to form some type of brick or concrete block. These products have the advantage of being easier to install and work with because of their highly automated manufacturing processes that helps guarantee uniformity. 

Concrete block masonry is known for its acoustic insulation and industrial aesthetic— great for large commercial workshops or office buildings. While their natural appearance can be a bit plain, they make up for it with their incredible paintability; something clay bricks can’t accommodate very well. 

This type of brick can often be less expensive to purchase upfront and has a high resistance to weather events and natural disasters. They are also available in a wider range of sizes and colours, and can be easily reinforced using rebar protection. 

Which Should You Use? 

At Grand River Natural Stone, we sell both clay and cement brick options to suit the needs of your unique project. Our team has extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the brick, stone and landscape industry. We’ll help answer any questions or provide guidance on which of these products might work best for you. 

Contact us today by visiting our website! 

The post Cement vs. Clay Bricks: Which Should You Use? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Whether you’re an avid DIY-er or someone seeking professional services for your landscaping project, chances are you may need mortar to put together a brick wall or stone walkway. In this post, we go over what you need to know about mortar before choosing the right products for your project.

What is Mortar? 

Mortar is a cement-based binding agent that is used to hold masonry elements together, such as bricks and stones. Mortar is made from a combination of fine cement powder, sand, water and sometimes lime. Different types and ratios of sand and cement can be mixed to create mortar with different properties that may be more ideal for certain applications. Learn more about the most common types of mortar below.  

What is Type N Mortar? 

Type N mortar has a medium compressive strength and is ideal for general-purpose applications. This type of mortar mixture usually comprises 1 part cement, 1 part lime, and 6 parts sand for the dry ingredients. You’ll most likely find type N mortar used in exposed masonry walls, non-load-bearing retaining walls and walkways/patios.  

What is Type S Mortar? 

Type S mortar offers superior binding strength for projects that need to withstand large loads, high winds and similar forces. This type of mortar consists of a more durable cement in its mixture. Ideal for masonry foundations, retaining walls and below-ground applications, type S mortar ensures elements and structures stay intact under pressure.  

Need professional help with your masonry tools and materials? At Grand Rive Natural Stone, we have a wide selection of high-quality materials and an expert team who can guide you throughout your masonry project. Contact us today.

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What is Quickset Mortar? 

Quickset mortar, such as Masonbond 400, comes pre-mixed and is designed for use with cultured bricks, stone veneer, and granite slabs and pavers. This product offers high bond and compressive strength and is easy to work with. It’s also durable and neutral in colour, making it versatile for an array of masonry projects.  

How Do You Mix Mortar? 

Now that you know what type of mortar you need for your project, as well as the ratios of each component, it’s time to make your paste.  

Step 1: If you don’t have a pre-mixed package of dry ingredients, you’ll need to measure and mix them thoroughly.   

Step2: Now it’s time to add in the water. You can mix in water using a large bucket or basin and a trowel or paddle to stir. Alternatively, you can use a mortar mixer which uses a rotating drum. Aim for a consistency of thick peanut butter and ensure everything is thoroughly hydrated. 

Step 3: Now, you must let the mortar rest or ‘slake’ for 10 minutes. Slaking is a process that allows the chemical bonds to strengthen, essentially activating the mixture. After you’ve given it time to rest, stir the mixture thoroughly and test its consistency. Scoop the mortar onto your mixing tool and tip it 90 degrees. If the mixture slips off, it’s too thin. 

You can find everything you need for your masonry projects at Grand River Natural Stone. Please reach out to our team today if you have any questions about our products.

The post 5 FAQs About Mortar: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

New exteriors are one of the best ways to radically alter your home’s appearance and value. Whether you have brick and want to add some stone or are thinking of adding both materials to the front of your house, there is a whole world of exciting possibilities to explore in mixing these two materials. If you’re not confident or you’re just looking for some inspiration, explore these six exciting home designs that include stone and brick. 

1. All-White Stone with Red Brick Landscaping 

Combine the classic look of rich red brick with the elegance of all-white exterior stone with this style. Use a textured white brick on the home exterior and add accents in the landscaping and on the exterior itself with red brick that is equally textured. The big contrast in colour and style makes a statement. 

2. Soft Red Brick and Soft Grey Stone 

Is that intensely contrasting style not for you? Then try picking stone and brick that are both medium shades, not too stark or bright. You can combine a softer more subtle mix of red and grey brick with all grey stone. Keep the textures the same, smooth or rough, to limit the contrast there too. Then your eye will just focus on the red and grey contrast. 

Thinking about making updates to your home exterior? We’d love to help modernize your home. Give us a call today. 

3. Dark Brick with Modern Stone   

Not quite classic, dark almost purple brick is still an older style of brick that harkens back to magnificent country properties. In the modern-day, these properties are more likely to be built with smooth and light-coloured stones. So, if you’re building an extension on such an old brick home, add a light modern stone to up the contrast. Or, combine both materials in a new build to mash up old and new. 

4. Red Brick and Modern Foundations 

Is that beautiful modern stone you like a bit outside of your price range? You can still get a touch of it and buy mostly a cheaper material. Combine a modern mix of red brick with a rough modern stone. Make most of the exterior out of the brick, but add a strip around the foundation out of stone, and potentially make the entryway out of stone too. You’ll see the stone you love every time you use the front door. 

5. Pink Brick and Cream Stone 

We haven’t yet discussed a style with pink brick. This light, playful material is a great pairing for equally light and more heavily textured stone. If you like the idea of pink brick but have thought it’s a bit much on a whole home, adding stone is a great way to dilute the pink and create a more sophisticated look. 

6. Brick with Coping Stone  

Any design with great windows deserves to have coping stone to make it look even better. You can pair just coping stone with brick! 

Thinking about adding stone or brick to your home exterior? At Grand River Natural Stone, we can help! Give our team a call today.

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The post 6 Exciting Exterior Home Designs with Stone and Brick appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

A common question that we hear all the time is: “What is the difference between brick and brick veneer?” Brick (also known as full bed veneer) and thin brick veneer often look identical. However, there are key differences.

Mainly, thin veneer products are not real stone or brick. Instead, they are often cement-based and shaped in moulds made from real stone and brick. This makes them affordable, and just as beautiful as the real thing. However, this also makes them thinner, less durable, and more prone to moisture absorption.

Brick veneer is all about wedding aesthetic to functionality. Whether you want rustic stone, traditional red brick, or smooth modern brick, brick veneer is lighter, easier to install and more affordable than full bed veneer brick.

Styles of Thin Stone Veneer

You may be surprised at the style options available when you choose thin brick or stone veneer. Forget the thin plastic sheet you may have seen in the past. Grand River Natural Stone’s veneer is real stone, that looks and feels just as you’d expect.

Style options include:

• Fieldstone: Rounded, uniquely shaped fieldstones give outdoor monuments, landscaping, and home exteriors a rustic feel.
• Classic brick: The red, uniform brick look has been a staple for years for a reason. This veneer is especially popular in interior restoration projects because it doesn’t take up much space.
• Large strips: You can achieve a very modern, or even minimalist look with brick veneer. Our large strips come in neutral colours and create dramatic shadows.

The Advantages of Brick Veneer Over Brick

The style options aren’t the only reason to choose brick veneer over brick. Brick veneer is lighter, thinner and less time-consuming to install than real brick, (though it still requires expert installation), which means it has lower costs.

Once the brick veneer is installed, you may also notice that it takes up a lot less room in your space than full bed brick veneer would have.

Brick veneer is a great choice to keep your living space large, especially in older historic houses that are much smaller, to begin with. You can get the look of an original historic home but get a bit more space with brick veneer.

If you’re curious about the looks you can achieve with brick veneer, take a peek at our brick veneer catalogue. You’re sure to find a style that’s right for your home or project, and you’ll be saving money and space by choosing brick veneer over brick. Contact us today to get your project started.

The post What is the Difference Between Brick and Brick Veneer? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Firstly, everyone at the four Grand River Natural Stone locations (Kitchener, Stoney Creek, London & Fergus) would like to wish you all the best for the New Year.

Speaking of the New Year, January has always been a popular time to install brick veneer.

That’s because of its five key advantages which homeowners and contractors alike find very appealing:

1. 1. Similar in appearance to natural bricks
2. 2. Veneer is very lightweight
3. 3. Easy to install for do-it-yourselfers
4. 4. Provides great insulation (especially those made from waterproof composite material)
5. 5. Cost savings compared to natural bricks

Our first blog of 2017 takes a closer look at the benefits of brick veneer products vs. siding, concrete bricks or clay bricks.

Veneer delivers the benefits of full-size brick…

Incredibly versatile and durable, brick veneer can be used to replace a variety of outdoor siding materials for your home:

• Wood
• Metal
• Vinyl siding

Not to mention that brick veneer is perfect for your indoor or outdoor fireplace too.

And if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you can smartly install them yourself without having to pull out your calculator and figure out the costs of using skilled bricklayers.

And that’s not to mention the additional price of having a foundation to support heavy, full-sized bricks as well.

…With the same ease of installation as siding

In 2017, there are modern, mechanically fastened brick veneer installation options.

And these are great for DIY’ers.

Here (in a nutshell) is how they work.

(Keep in mind that not all modern brick veneer panels are designed in this particular manner):

Front side of the panel

• Has the brick veneer stone on it
• That’s the side that will be outward facing from your home

Back side of the panel

• Has metal fasteners built into them
• Like a puzzle, these fasteners lock into each other
• When they’re in place, you simply bolt or screw them into the frame of your home.

Assuming your home already has framed walls, then brick veneer supplies all the advantages of real brick or siding when properly installed.

Additionally, your home’s resale value immediately rises and will continue to do so especially when compared to less expensive siding options.

More brick veneer benefits

Brick veneer is designed to look and act like the real thing.

And they’re designed to be incredibly easy to install too.

That said, there are other additional benefits to using brick veneer in and around your home:

• Lightweight, yet strong: Most veneer bricks are approximately 1” thick (compared to 3”-4” for conventional bricks). This lighter weight makes them easy to handle and install upon a majority of residential walls.

• Superior insulation & customization choices: Brick veneer panels are graded on their insulation levels (otherwise known as R-value).This give you the ability to customize the degree of insulation in different parts of the house where you choose to install it.

• Affordability: The costs of brick veneer construction and installation projects tend to be lower than those of traditional brick walls. Additionally, brick veneer tends to be easier to take care of, which means lower maintenance costs over many years.

Value that pays for itself

Considering the many advantages that brick veneer holds over other siding choices, such as:

• Ease of installation
• Accommodation of additional insulation
• Fireproofing
• Easy maintenance

Brick veneer wins easily.

Lastly, when it comes to appearance and aesthetics, it would take an expert to know that your veneer wall or fireplace is not actually made from brick.

We have the brick veneer you want at a cost you’ll love

Brick veneer is a superb choice for a rich appearance at a reasonable cost.

And as a homeowner – that’s all you can really ask for.

As we said off the top, January is a very popular time for brick veneer installation projects.  So we’re ready to help you with yours.

All you have to do is contact us with your questions or ask for a FREE quote on the brick veneer you’re interested in.

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1. Brick replacement

Bricks are highly durable and sturdy, but since they are often outside, they are exposed to the elements constantly. It is always possible that one or more of them will break or crack. And you need to replace that brick to prevent moisture from getting into the wall. Brick replacement is relatively simple and can be done with a few specialty tools by any semi-handy homeowner. The cost of these tools is less than hiring someone to do it for you. You may be able to remove the brick and turn it so that the other side is facing out. If that side is damaged as well, you will have to look for a replacement that is comparable in size and style. If you buy a new brick, be sure to soak it in water for an hour before you install it. You will remove the old brick by drilling holes in the mortar and jiggling the brick out.

2. Brick cleaning

Since bricks are often outside and exposed, they sometimes have a build up of mold, mildew or other items on them. How you clean the bricks depends on what is on them so you will first want to identify what needs to be cleaned off the bricks. For mildew and mold, you will mix chlorine bleach with water and put the solution into a garden sprayer. You may have to scrub some areas with the solution and a brush if the section is especially bad. For mortar stains or rust areas, use an acid based detergent and mix it with water. You will want to rinse the surfaces before and after the solutions are applied and scrub as necessary. Pressure washing is another method if the bricks are simply muddy or water stained. Brick cleaning can be a tedious job and it is not necessarily fun, but average homeowners can carry out the process.

3. Brick re-pointing

If your bricks have been around long enough, re-pointing may need to be done. You will want to mix mortar and let it sit until it is stiff enough. Only mix enough mortar to get you through about 30 minutes of work or the mortar will be too hard and you will waste what you have mixed. You will have to chisel out the old mortar and brush loose the remaining particles. You then load a trowel with mortar and place it between the bricks. This job is not something just anyone would want to or even be able to do. Handy homeowners can get by with their own labor, but to do the job right, you might want to consider a professional.

Whether your brick project is too big, too time consuming, or something you just don’t feel like you can do, Grand River Natural Stone can help you with any brick work you need done. Call us today to request a professional referral for the brick project you have in mind around your home or business.

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