Natural Thin Stone Veneer Patterns Explained
Reprinted with permission from Delgado Stone. All photos courtesy of Delgado Stone.
If you have researched natural thin stone veneer or spent any time on the internet seeking inspiration, you already know one thing: there are more options to personalize your space than you imagined! Natural stone is quarried across the world in a variety of types, color schemes, patterns, and shapes.
With the right planning and approach, the range of choices is beneficial because each pattern has different characteristics. The traits you like the most about a particular stone can be enhanced by the pattern you choose. This article covers five popular patterns: The Mosaic, Strip, and Roughly Square and Rectangle patterns feature the stone face, while the Ledgestone and Ashlar patterns showcase the end grain. Here is a closer look at each.
Ashlar
The Ashlar pattern is a combination of approximately 50% rectangular Strip pieces, 25% Ledge pieces, and 25% small squares. The combination of these three patterns provides the mason with the flexibility to create a unique design for each project. In the photo below, Northeast Walls and Patios installed Colonial Tan thin stone veneer in the Ashlar pattern for the new home’s entryway, pillars, and arch siding.
Ledgestone Pattern
Ledgestone (otherwise referred to as Ledge) is made up of thin cut pieces of natural stone often used for siding. These end-grain pieces run in size approximately 1”-4” in height and 6”-14” in length. This pattern creates a unique, layered look when used for stone walls or fireplaces, as you can see in the photo below, featuring design and install by Rockport Post and Beam and Larry Luce Masonry, LLC. The smallest pattern of the five in this article, Ledgestone can be used for a wide range of projects, from home siding to step risers.
Mosaic Pattern
The Mosaic pattern includes irregular shapes that fit together like a puzzle, allowing you to create your own unique design. The face surface ranges from approximately .25 to 1.25 square feet. Mosaic patterns are a popular choice to give projects a more natural, rustic look. The accent wall below, featuring Connecticut Blend thin stone veneer and the talents of JJ Stone Design and Masonry, is a great example of how a little stone makes a big impact.
Roughly Square and Rectangle
Otherwise called Square & Rec, these pieces are roughly 6”x6” and larger, while the rectangle pieces are longer. In contrast to the Mosaic pattern, Square & Rec is used to create a clean and more modern look. Often used for exterior siding, Square & Rec offers a smooth, consistent shape that puts the focus on the color choice and range. The photo below shows a Connecticut project by J. Salvatore & Sons using Square and Rec on the entrance to coordinate with the front of the home.
Strip Pattern
Strip is the pattern that most resembles the layout of brick. The face ranges from approximately 5-8” in height and 12-18” in length. Stones are all cut to almost the same size so they fit together to create a smooth, flat surface. The rectangular shape makes the Strip pattern a good fit for projects needing consistent and longer stones. The fireplace below features the talents of Lakeside Masonry using Spruce Mountain strip patterned thin stone veneer.
Even with a wide range of options, there are no bounds for imagination and creativity. Patterns can be mixed and matched. Homeowners often coordinate with their masons and stone dealers to select a truly customized design that fits their individual project. We love seeing the way these projects maximize the impact of natural stone and showcase the talents of the designers and installers!
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