Homeowners who want the appearance of a natural stone siding for their chimneys, but for a lower price, should consider using faux stone instead. This is usually cheaper by up to $10 per square foot compared to authentic stone.
However, faux stone is not an all-purpose material. You cannot use it as a liner, and the price of chimney lining in Connecticut will be different from the ones for sale in Utah. The same applies when you use fake stone for sidings, while the cost of labor could be higher particularly for those who live in the city.
Pros and Cons
The price of natural stone is not the sole reason why some people prefer to use a different chimney siding. Faux stone weighs around one pound per square foot, and you will not need to check if your foundation could support the weight of natural stone. Hence, you no longer have to spend on a professional inspection prior to installation.
Despite being a lightweight material, its polyurethane composition makes it a durable siding that is resistant to heat and impact. In other words, your home has a better insulation system for retaining heat during cold weather and cool air during the hot months. It is a sustainable product as well since you can recycle and reuse old sidings.
Like any other material, faux stone’s disadvantages include a shorter lifespan of up to 25 years when maintained properly. Real stone can last up to a lifetime and it offers a better fire-resistance compared to faux stone. Once you decide if it is the right material, the next step involves finding the right mason.
Why Hiring Masons are Better
Masons charge a more expensive rate simply because of their skill and level of knowledge, unlike a handyman. Masonry professionals often specialize in brick, concrete, or stone applications. You should expect to pay a higher price for those who are skilled in all three materials. For instance, hiring a mason to fix broken sidings may cost between $300 and $1,000.
A reputable masonry contractor should also recommend when it is necessary to repair or replace your chimney siding. In addition, they should be able to explain the differences between faux stone and manufactured stone veneers. These two are commonly mistaken to be the same material.
You can narrow your list of potential contractors by requesting for price estimates from at least three different professionals. Remember that estimates only come from a contractor’s perspective on how much you need to spend on a chimney project. If you want a detailed breakdown of expenses, you should ask for a quote instead.
Faux stone has several advantages and drawbacks when you plan to use it for a chimney siding. You should consider this material only if the benefits seem to outweigh the cons in your opinion. Whether you decide to use it, it is better to hire an experienced mason to work on your chimney because of the inherent risk of falling from the roof if you do it by yourself.
