STONE VENEER

Generally a composite of crushed stone mixed with natural pigments, stone veneer comes in large slabs, much like large-format tiles. Rob Baxter of Veneer Stone advises all their veneers are made with crushed sandstone, whether the end result looks like pale limestone or dark slate. Like any exterior product, stone cladding is subject to weathering, and its brittle structure means it can crack, so ensure it is installed correctly and on the right framework. When it is, the results – as in this home in suburban Sydney (above) – are superb.