While it may seem that real stone would always be preferable to “fake” stone, you may want to take a second look at manufactured stone. One reason to consider is the weight of real stone. Even when it is cut into a thinner veneer, stone can be very heavy. This can become a major issue if you want to add it to the front of your fireplace. Unless your floor is reinforced properly to accommodate the extra weight, manufactured stone may be a better option. This is especially a problem with standard-cut stone; it is much thicker than stone veneer and manufactured stone.

Another reason to use manufactured stone is cost. Most often real stone is more expensive than manufactured stone. If you plan to cover a large area with stone, the cost savings can add up to a significant dollar amount both in materials and labor.

For the most realistic look, many architects and designers recommend choosing a manufactured stone that is installed since it is made with less seams or cracks, and requires almost no maintenance. Many manufactured stones have become so realistic, even when installed in panels, that you may not be able to tell the difference between them and real stone once they are installed.