An outdoor fireplace can be a lovely addition to your home, and a great place to enjoy with friends and family during the spring, summer and fall. But what if you want to change the style of your fireplace to something a little more charming than painted plaster? Or perhaps you’re looking to incorporate an outdoor fireplace with a natural stone style that is beyond your budget? If either of these is the case, stone veneer may be the answer you’re looking for.
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You really do need to make this selection carefully as the veneer is what will make your outdoor fireplace that spectacular piece in your landscape. To help you along in making your outdoor fireplace a point of pride for your East Hampton, NY, home, here are some wonderful stone veneer options:
Veneer Stones
The selection of veneer stone is as broad as the variations of natural stone itself. Different stone speaks to different tastes and different aesthetic effects. Granite, for example, is bold and impactful, providing a strong presence and masculine character. Granite is commonly grey to charcoal in color, but mottled pinks and oranges are also possibilities. Flagstone veneer can contribute greatly to a warm and welcoming fireplace with a rustic touch. Its colors are distinctly earthy with rich browns, oranges and blues being prevalent. Sandstone is well loved for its soft gold and golden brown coloring, but is also available in greys and pinks. This stone’s sandy grain is also an attractive feature and contributes to a patio of relaxed elegance. Like sandstone, limestone features pale golds, golden brown and greys and has the added appeal of a fine, silky texture, ideal for a luxurious feel. This just to name a few of the natural stone veneer options available.
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Veneer Styles
A veneer style is the next important choice to make for your outdoor fireplace. This will depend largely on the style and look you wish to achieve.
Stacked
For the fine, rich texture of stacked flagstone, slate or ledgestone, a stacked veneer style is the way to go. These thin, elongated veneer stones replicate a stacked look and offer a high level of textural and visual interest. The relief created here is often quite sharp with a strong horizontal emphasis.
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Round
Round veneer stones contribute to the look of a fireplace built from boulder stones. These veneers offer a three dimensional rounded relief as well, making them ideal for creating the impression of depth and an old world feel.
Mosaic
Similar in shape to irregular flagstone paving, mosaic veneer stone offer a rustic, randomized look. A mosaic pattern is ideal for adding a natural touch and high visual interest. This pattern is especially well-suited to a country or cottage themed patio.
Square and Rectangular
With the appearance of ancient building stone, square and rectangular veneer stones create an aged, characterful appearance for outdoor fireplaces. These can be arranged in regular patterns or with some randomization to create the impression of a carefully stacked stone-built structure.
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