Natural Stone is the Best Choice

　　From the ancient Egyptian pyramids to modern buildings, genuine natural stone has long been a durable choice for any such project. Projects utilizing natural stone exist in every American city and in every country in the world.In the United States, for example, many college campuses are made up of all natural stone buildings, generally selected because of its versatility, affordability, ease of shaping, proven durability and genuine beauty. Many government buildings (including the majority of state and federal buildings located throughout the country), religious facilities, museums, office buildings and many other types of projects are also constructed of natural stone. Why? Because these buildings, like those on college campuses, are expected to last through several generations. The natural stone industry can look back at these projects, some of which are more than100 years old, and be proud of their contribution to architecture and the quality of life.

natural stone

　　Residential architecture has also benefited from the use of natural stone over the years. More and more homeowners and contractors are turning to natural stone, not only for the exterior skin of their homes, but also for countertops, fireplaces (long a staple of the industry) and other interior treatments.

　　In recent years many "cast," "engineered" and "manufactured" products have been introduced to the market under a variety of trade names, most containing the word "stone." Through large numbers of producers and suppliers and equally large advertising budgets, the market share for these materials has been on the increase. Claims made for these products vary, but all have recurring themes. Chief among them: a particular "engineered" product is "just like" whatever natural stone it is trying to emulate.

　　These "just like" claims typically include not only the look of the product, but also the durability. Some companies even claim that their products are more durable because they are man-made, thus the manufacturing processes are more controlled. "More controlled than what," remains the question. Are they more controlled than, say, God's processes when He made the natural stone? That's generally left to the imagination of the reader. However, the presence of the word "stone" in many of the trade names and ads for these products can confuse architects and owners into thinking that they are, in fact, using natural stone.

　　Marketing materials for manufactured products often boast that the products are less expensive than natural stone. As evidence, producers point to buildings that used their materials and state that the owners saved 20 percent or more of the total cost of the building by using their product instead of the natural stone which, in some cases, was used on all of the surrounding buildings. However, with current technology this is not always the case. New computer-operated equipment introduced by various manufacturers has made the use of natural stone more economical than ever before. Further, the design of the building can also impact the cost factors. For example, if there are several different profiles on the project. natural stone is often not only competitive but less expensive, as the cast producers may be unable to efficiently recycle their molds to effectively reduce their costs. Other factors might include current market conditions at the time the project is bid.

　　With natural stones, no coloring agents will fade and no reinforcement rods will rust. Most natural stone products are virtually maintenance-free, requiring only periodic re-pointing of joints and, if necessary and desired, periodic cleaning. Further, natural stone for most projects comes to the job cut to fit and ready to set. Often, cast products are furnished in standard lengths and have to be cut on the job, adding labor expenses for the mason contractor/installer.
　　Finally, the proven long-term beauty and durability of natural stone is unmatched. As noted, the natural stone industry can boast of government, educational, religious and residential projects. A look at these showcases that natural stone blends into a pleasing match with buildings nearby and continues to maintain its natural beauty. While the cast industry can claim their products are durable, natural stone has history on its side.

　　Certain situations may call for a cast product instead of natural stone. However, architects, owners and others faced with choosing a product should not simply assume natural stone is unaffordable. Check with potential suppliers, contractors and/or trade associations representing both natural and man-made products. Remember that the initial cost of any product is but one factor. Consider whether you'd really rather have "cheaper" than "genuine." Keep in mind potential extra maintenance and installation costs and remember the proven durability of natural stone. Then make an educated decision based on research. In the end, the life of your project — and its use and enjoyment by present and future generations — may depend on it.