Wondering what the difference is between thin veneer and full veneer stone? You’re not alone. These products can be pretty similar to one another, except for one key characteristic: thickness. Finding the right option for your project is often a question of thick versus thin stone veneer. The difference in thickness and weight alone creates two distinct product experiences.

No matter which product you choose, stone veneer presents endless application potential. From interior fireplaces to exterior facades, natural stone veneer can be used to add depth and drama to any space. So, let’s explore the two major types of stone veneer available to you, and the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Building Stone

Building stone, sometimes referred to as thick or full stone veneer, has been in use for centuries. Ever since its first application, humanity has searched for more and more ways to incorporate natural stone into their designs.

The biggest difference between full and thin veneer is the thickness — or depth — of the cut. Full thickness building stone typically ranges in depth from 3-5 inches, whereas natural thin stone veneer is well under 2 inches thick. With this range of thickness, full stone veneer requires foundation footing. This special footing is needed to address the specific thickness, weight, and size challenges associated with full thickness building stone. But with the use of proper footing or flooring strength, this product can be used in a variety of settings.

Full stone veneer tends to average between 35-40 square feet per ton, but the final weight of your stone may vary depending on what type of rock is used.

When it comes to pricing, full thickness building stone typically has a lower product cost than natural thin stone veneer. However, full stone veneer also has a higher installation cost — not just because of the footings, but because of increased labor — which may make it more expensive to use in the long run.

Being heavier than its thin counterpart, full stone veneer is more difficult to work with — and requires more time and effort to install. With more weight per square foot of coverage, the logistical challenges of full thickness building stone will be reflected in installation costs. The substantial weight and size of full stone veneer will also accrue higher shipping costs.

Thin Stone Veneer

Natural thin stone veneer is an attractive alternative to full veneer stone, as it reduces freight and installation costs without sacrificing the quality and beauty of the natural stone. Featuring a shallow depth — around ¾ to 1 ½-inch — thin veneer differs from full veneer stone in its thickness, but is made from the exact same high-quality material.

By definition, natural thin stone veneer weighs under 15 pounds per square feet — significantly less than full thickness building stone. This eliminates the need for foundation footings and allows the product to be more easily installed in a variety of interior and exterior applications. Natural thin stone veneer can be applied to nearly any surface, making it ideal for decorative use in new construction, remodels, landscaping projects and more.

Since this product is easier to handle than full stone veneer, every step — from transportation to cutting to setting — tends to be more cost and time efficient, and less labor intensive.

Some people may worry that, with reduced weight and depth, natural thin stone veneer is weaker than full thickness building stone. The truth is, both types of stone are incredibly strong and capable of lasting a lifetime.

Find the Stone Veneer you Need with Kafka Granite

At Kafka Granite, we’re proud to share our premium Natural Thin Stone Veneer products with you. Whether you’re looking for show-stopping mica-enriched quartzite or traditional granite colors, it’s easy to find the perfect stone veneer at Kafka Granite.