The Stone Siding Cost Guide For Faux & Natural
- srcustommasonry
- 11 minutes ago
- 9 min read
If you’re planning to upgrade your home’s exterior, stone siding is one of the most visually striking and durable options available. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the stone siding cost. Whether you want natural stone, veneer, or budget-friendly faux panels, the price can vary significantly.
In this post, we’ll cover all the factors that influence the cost, including labor, materials, and more. Plus, we’ll compare different types of stone and give you some tips on how to get the look you want without breaking the bank.
If you’re ready to upgrade to stone siding, you need a contractor you can trust. S&R Custom Masonry serves all of the Wasatch Front, providing high-quality work that will last for years to come.
Pros of Stone Siding
Home trends come and go, but stone siding is always in style. That’s because it’s both beautiful and long-lasting. Here are some of the advantages of stone siding:
Durability: Stone siding is extremely durable, whether it’s natural or manufactured. It’s resistant to weather, pests, fire, and decay and can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Aesthetic appeal: One of the main reasons people love stone siding is the natural beauty and timeless elegance it adds to any home.
Low maintenance: Unlike wood, stone siding doesn’t require much upkeep. It stays in good condition naturally without painting or extensive cleaning.
Energy efficient: Stone siding can also help regulate indoor temperatures. Stone’s natural thermal mass means it absorbs and slowly releases heat, keeping homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Fire and pest resistance: Unlike wood, stone is naturally fireproof and impervious to termites, rot, or mold.
Eco-friendly: Natural stone is a sustainable material that lasts for a long time, making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, many manufactured stone products are made with recycled materials.
Cons of Stone Siding
Although stone siding has a ton of benefits, there are some drawbacks too, including:
High initial cost: Stone siding, especially natural stone, is expensive to purchase and install due to material and labor costs. However, it can increase your home’s value and last a long time, making it worth the price.
Heavy weight: Stone is a heavy material that often requires structural reinforcement, especially if your home is older.
Installation complexity: Proper installation is crucial for the longevity of the siding. It requires skilled labor and more time to install, which can increase the overall project costs.
Moisture concerns: If stone veneer siding is installed improperly without drainage and barriers, it can trap moisture and cause wall damage over time.
How Much Does Stone Siding Cost?
Stone siding cost varies based on a number of factors, including the size of your project, the materials you choose, your location, and the cost of labor. In the past few years, prices have gone up between 5% to 10% because of higher demand for stone. In 2025, you can expect to pay between $87,500 to $125,000 to install stone siding on your home, with an average cost of $106,250 across the US.
How Much Does It Cost Per Square Foot?
When looking into the stone siding cost for your home, you can calculate an estimate based on the square footage of your exterior. On average, stone siding costs between $4.50 to $35 per square foot. The big difference between that range is due to the differences in prices of natural vs manufactured vs faux stone siding, as well as the costs of different types of natural stone.
Faux Stone Siding
Also called fake or synthetic stone, faux stone siding can be made from fiber cement, polyurethane, or vinyl to look just like natural stone. It comes in panels that often interlock. Faux stone siding is both lightweight and easier to install than natural stone. It usually costs between $6 to $9 per square foot, making it a cost-effective alternative to natural stone. However, faux stone siding isn’t as durable as natural or manufactured stone. It may fade or warp over time with exposure to UV and moisture.
Natural Stone Siding
Natural stone siding is real, quarried stone like granite, slate, or limestone. It’s cut into siding panels or thin veneers. Natural stone costs between $4.50 and $35 per square foot to install, making it the most expensive option in general. It’s also the heaviest type of stone siding. However, natural stone siding is extremely durable and long-lasting while also providing a premium look. In fact, natural stone will increase your home’s resale value the most.
Cultured or Manufactured Stone
Cultured or manufactured stone is a concrete-based stone made in molds to mimic the appearance of natural stone. It’s more affordable than natural stone, but not nearly as durable. Still, there are tons of styles to choose from. If you opt for manufactured stone, expect to pay between $5 to $8 per square foot.
Stone Veneer
Stone veneer refers to any thin layer of stone, natural or manufactured, that’s used as a decorative siding. Stone veneer typically costs around $11 per square foot. It isn’t load-bearing, but it can provide the look of stone siding without the weight. It’s important to note, however, that stone veneer is more subject to damage than natural stone. Additionally, it requires proper backing and a drainage system to prevent moisture from being trapped beneath the veneer.
Mortar
Mortar is the bonding material used to adhere stone to walls or between joints. It’s typically made from a mix of cement, sand, and water. Mortar provides both adhesion and structural support. Plus, it helps fill gaps between stones for a finished look. Although not as expensive as the stones used, mortar can add to the overall stone siding costs. Mortar usually costs around $10 to $15 per 70 to 80 lb bag. The amount needed will depend on the size of your home.
How Much is The Labor?
One of the reasons for the high stone siding cost is the price of labor. Proper installation is labor-intensive, requiring a skilled mason rather than a general contractor. The cost of labor ranges between $100 to $150 per hour or $3 to $15 per square foot. The exact price will depend on your location and the complexity of your project. Here are some factors that can drive up the cost of labor:
Complexity: Curves, corners, pillars, and custom patterns take more time to install, raising the cost of labor.
Wall height or slopes: Two-story homes or steep slopes make accessing the wall more difficult, which can also drive up the cost of labor.
Installation method: Mortared stone is more labor-intensive than panel systems, which will affect the cost.
Local labor rates: Cities and coastal areas usually have higher labor rates.
Material Types
The cost of natural stone ranges between $4.50 to $35 per square foot. The biggest factor in this price range is the type of stone you choose. Here’s a rundown of the top material types to choose from:
Granite: While granite is the most expensive type of natural stone at $15 to $35 per square foot, it’s extremely durable and highly weather-resistant. With its beautiful blue-gray color and speckled patterns, granite is best for high-end homes and long-term investment properties.
Basalt: Basalt is a dense, fine-grained volcanic rock that’s becoming more popular. With its gray to black color and smooth, matte, or textured appearance, basalt works well in contemporary aesthetics. Prices for basalt range between $7 to $11 per square foot.
Limestone: Ranging from $20 to $28 per square foot, limestone provides an elegant appearance with soft earthy colors. It’s easier to cut than granite, but it’s also porous and may need to be sealed. Limestone works best on traditional or classic homes.
Slate: Slate stone siding provides rich textures and colors to choose from. Its naturally split surface gives it a rippled appearance. Although slate can break if not handled properly, it’s one of the most economical material choices at $4.50 to $10 per square foot.
Sandstone: Sandstone siding costs on average between $15 to $30 per square foot. It comes in warm, natural tones that look especially good in Southwestern or Mediterranean-style homes. However, sandstone is softer and more porous, making it less durable than other types of stone siding.
Factors that Affect the Cost
Prices for stone siding range significantly based on a number of factors, including:
Type of material: Natural stone like granite, slate, and basalt typically cost more than faux stone panels or manufactured stone. However, natural stone is usually more durable and provides a higher return on investment.
Labor: Skilled labor is essential for installing natural stone and stone veneer, which drives up the cost of installation. Complex designs like custom patterns or multi-level installs can also increase labor costs.
Project size and scope: Larger surface areas mean more material and more labor time. Partial installations like accent walls will cost you less overall than a full exterior installation.
Surface preparation: Removing old siding, repairing walls, or reinforcing framing for heavy stone can increase the overall cost. Additionally, if your home needs a moisture barrier, metal lath, or mortar base, this can add to the cost. Reinforcement can add between $9,900 to $17,900 to the cost.
Can You Do It Yourself?
While you could install stone siding yourself, it may not be the best idea, depending on the type of material, your skill level, and the size of your project. For example, faux stone panels are lightweight, with interlocking panels that may be more accessible for DIYers. However, if you’re opting for natural stone siding, it’s generally not a good idea to attempt it on your own.
Natural stone siding is very heavy, requiring a structural assessment to make sure your home can handle the weight. It also requires exact cuts, precise mortar work, and proper drainage. Without the skills and necessary tools, you can actually risk the structural integrity of your home or put it at risk of moisture issues.
Does It Increase the Value of Your Home?
Yes, stone siding can increase the value of your home, especially natural stone siding. It boosts your curb appeal, creating a premium, upscale appearance that is attractive to buyers. Even partial stone accents, such as around the entryway or garage, make a home look more refined. Homebuyers associate stone with strength and longevity, which often justifies a higher asking price.
However, it’s important to know that a poorly done installation can reduce the value of your home and even cause issues. Make sure you hire professionals with a good track record, like S&R Custom Masonry, to handle your stone work.
How to Lower the Cost
While we don’t recommend trying to DIY your stone siding, there are ways you can reduce your stone siding cost, including:
Use stone as an accent: Consider applying stone to the front facade, entryway, column, lower portions, or chimneys. You get the look of stone without the cost of a full, stone exterior.
Choose manufactured or faux stone: Manufactured and faux stone panels cost much less than natural stone. They’re easier and faster to install with no need for structural reinforcement. This saves you on both material and labor costs.
Get multiple quotes: Shop around at different stone suppliers to find the best price. Check local suppliers for overstock or clearance materials.
Choose less expensive types of stone: If you want natural stone, you can save money by opting for basalt or slate.
What to Look for In a Stone Masonry Contractor
One of the most important decisions when upgrading your home to stone siding is who will do the work. It’s essential to hire the right contractor for a durable result that looks good. Remember that the cheapest estimate isn’t necessarily the best. You need a contractor with the right experience and a dedication to high-quality work.
Here’s exactly what to look for when choosing one:
Experience: Look for contractors who specialize in masonry, not just general siding or concrete work. Ask how many similar projects they’ve completed.
Licensing and insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed to perform masonry work in your area and insured. This protects you from liability and ensures professional accountability.
Reputation: Check reviews on Google, Yelp, HomeAdvisor, or Angi. Look for comments on work quality, cleanliness, communication, and timeliness. You may also ask for references from previous clients.
Warranty: Do they offer a workmanship warranty (typically 1 to 5 years) or material warranties (if they supply the stone)?
Transparency: A trustworthy contractor will provide a detailed written estimate of materials, labor, and the time frame. They’ll also explain any possible extra costs, like wall prep or disposal fees, and offer a contract with clear terms.
Stone Siding Cost Conclusion
There are a number of factors that influence stone siding cost, including the material type, the size of your project, and the cost of labor. The result is a high-end finish that improves your curb appeal and can increase the resale value of your home. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right contractor for the job.
S&R Custom Masonry is your go-to team in the Wasatch Front. We’ve been serving customers from Ogden and Salt Lake down to Provo for over a decade with dedication to our craft and an eye for detail. From brick restoration to stone siding and more, you can count on us for all your masonry needs.
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