Cheapest Ways to Have a Stone Foundation

Stone Veneer

• Stone veneer is a type of decorative stone made from a thin layer of real stone, which you can attach to your concrete foundation. The stone veneer is installed in a bed of mortar, and, when correctly placed, it can look like a real stone foundation stacked together brick-by-brick or piece-by-piece. This is much less expensive than trying to use full stone blocks, and works well if you add moisture barriers and drainage space.

Cultured Stone

• Cultured stone is similar to stone veneer but is made from faux stone instead of real stone products. This faux stone is typically made from a mixture of concrete and polymers that are painted and etched to resemble a real stone face. It is even less expensive than a stone veneer and can be quickly installed. However, it will not be as durable as real stone, if exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Mortar and Stucco

• If you prefer to avoid using stone faces or stack-stone veneer materials, you can choose to put stucco on your walls instead. This mixture of mortar and plaster is useful for covering up dull concrete. Stucco can be installed in a variety of colors and works especially well with Mediterranean themes. This option, while cost-effective and easily done with stucco sprayers, is suitable only for outside projects.

Stone Replacement

• You may be able to replace the concrete of your foundation with stone blocks. This is rare and usually done because a foundation wall is buckling and needs to be replaced. This is the most expensive option, but if you are planning to expand your basement area, ask your planner or contractor about replacing one of the basement walls with real stone for an enhanced appearance.