In an earlier era of building construction, stone or brick materials often provided the primary support for exterior walls. In modern construction, however, homes are framed in wood while brick or stone facades are attached to the exterior for decorative and weather protection purposes rather than for structural support.
Brick veneers were traditionally attached to wood frame houses, but can be applied over other materials as well. Veneers may be either anchored or adhered. Brick veneer should be 3 to 5 inches thick of an appropriate grade, generally SW brick. Thin brick veneer is between ½ and 1 inch thick and comes in many sizes, colors and textures. Properly constructed, brick veneers add protection to both the exterior and interior of the building. They are fire and moisture resistant and provide thermal and acoustical insulation.
Anchored brick is attached with fasteners to the existing exterior of a house. This creates an air space between the old siding and the veneer that also serves as a drainage channel for moisture. Adhered brick veneer attaches to an existing wall with lath and plaster; these materials resist moisture penetration.
Stone veneers provide decorative and protective attributes to a building’s exterior, as brick does. Stone is also fire-resistant, with thermal and acoustical insulation properties. Stone veneers may be natural or manufactured.
Natural stone veneers are three to five inches thick and can weigh up to 45 to 50 pounds per square foot, requiring a brick support ledge to distribute the weight. Each course of stone supports the next. Additional structural reinforcement may also be required. Masonry ties connect the stone to the wall. Several types of natural stone are suitable for exterior veneers including limestone, sandstone, marble, slate and granite.
Newer technology, like diamond blade cutting, creates thin natural stone veneers that are 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches thick, with an average weight of 10 to 15 pound per square foot. Manufactured stone veneers are lighter, usually lower in cost and have a lower waste factor than natural stone. Good quality faux stone looks like natural stone in color and texture. Stone veneers can be applied over any properly prepared surface.
When setting stone, the spacing between stones, size and color of the stone and technique of grout application can create a particular look, like rustic or old world. Both natural and manufactured stone veneers can create the effect of a solid stone wall; however, low-quality materials and poor installation may result in a facade that looks artificial. Thin stone veneers are more difficult to use in detailed work like lintels, corbels and return corners.