Refacing stone
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Refacing stone is the process of overlaying or replacing masonry with a stone veneer. This can be necessary because of the deterioration of the underlying masonry, to improve the performance of masonry, or for aesthetic reasons. It can be carried out internally, for example to give a fireplace a more rustic appearance, or externally to enhance exterior walls.
Thin veneers and cultured stone veneers are often used because they are cost-effective and easy to install. They are also lightweight and add minimal thickness.
Common types of refacing stone include:
- Marble.
- Granite.
- Slate.
- Fieldstone.
- Flagstone.
- Travertine.
- Brownstone.
- Sandstone.
- Soapstone.
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