Stone Cladding

Natural stone cladding is made by cutting a thin face (typically 15–30mm) from traditional building stone. This allows you to achieve the same authentic appearance of full-depth stone walls, but with reduced weight and easier installation.

Yes, stone cladding is made from natural stone. Unlike synthetic or faux stone panels, natural stone cladding is cut directly from real stone, such as sandstone, limestone, or slate. Each piece retains the unique texture, colour variations, and character of the original stone, giving your walls an authentic, timeless appearance.

The cost of natural stone cladding in the UK varies based on material type, style, and installation complexity. Here's a breakdown to help you estimate your project budget:

Material Costs

• Budget-Friendly Options: For standard materials like straight-cut or random stone, prices typically range from £50 to £70 per square meter
  
• Mid-Range Choices: Higher-end materials, such as split-face tiles or specific stone types, can cost between £70 and £100 per square meter.
  
• Premium Selections: Specialty stones or designer panels may reach £100 to £150 per square meter, especially when purchased in full crates or panels.

Installation Costs

• Labour Charges: Installation costs vary depending on the project's complexity and location. On average, you can expect to pay between £50 and £100 per square meter for professional installation.
  

Total Project Estimate

• DIY Approach: If you're handling installation yourself, the total cost will primarily be the material price. For instance, purchasing 20 square meters of stone cladding at £50 per square meter would amount to £1,000.
  
• Professional Installation: Including both materials and installation, the total cost could range from £1,600 to £2,000 for 20 square metres, depending on the chosen materials and complexity of the installation.

1. Prepare the Surface

• Ensure the wall is clean, dry, and structurally sound.
  
• Remove any dust, paint, or loose materials.
  
• For porous walls (like plaster or concrete), a primer or bonding agent may be recommended.

2. Choose the Fixing Method

A. Adhesive / Glue Method (Most Common for Interiors)

• Use a high-strength construction adhesive or thin-bed tile adhesive.
  
• Apply the adhesive to the back of each cladding piece or the wall.
  
• Press the stone firmly into place and use spacers if needed.
  

B. Mortar / Cement Method (Common for Exteriors)

• Spread a layer of mortar on the wall using a notched trowel.
  
• Press the cladding piece into the mortar, ensuring good contact.
  
• Fill joints with grout or mortar once the cladding is set.
  

3. Spacing & Alignment

• Leave consistent gaps between pieces if you want a traditional stone wall look.
  
• Use a spirit level frequently to keep courses straight.
  

4. Finishing Touches

• Fill joints with grout or mortar for a seamless finish.
  
• Seal stone if recommended for your specific type (e.g., sandstone) to protect against stains and weathering.
  

Natural stone cladding is typically between 15mm and 30mm thick.

This reduced thickness compared to full stone walls makes it:

• Lightweight – easier to handle and transport.
  
• Versatile – suitable for internal and external walls.
  
• Cost-effective – uses less raw material while maintaining the authentic look of stone.
  

Some premium or decorative stone cladding may be slightly thicker (up to 40mm) for enhanced texture or durability, but the majority of cladding slips fall within the 15–30mm range.

Yes, stone cladding is relatively quick to install compared to building a full stone wall, but the exact speed depends on the type of cladding, surface preparation, and whether you’re working DIY or with professionals.

Here’s why installation is faster:

• Thin Slips – Most natural stone cladding is 15–30mm thick, making it much lighter than full stone blocks.
  
• Adhesive-Friendly – Slips can be bonded to walls using mortar or strong adhesives, eliminating the need for heavy structural work.
  
• Pre-Cut Sizes – Many cladding pieces come in uniform shapes and sizes, reducing the time spent cutting and shaping stones on site.
  

Typical installation times:

• For a small feature wall (e.g., 5–10m²), a professional installer can usually complete it in 1–2 days.
  
• Larger exterior façades will take longer, but still far less than traditional stone masonry.
  

Surface preparation (clean, level, and primed walls) is key — a poorly prepared wall can slow installation and affect adhesion.

Attaching natural stone cladding depends on whether you’re working on an interior or exterior wall, but the principle is the same: the cladding slips are fixed to a prepared surface using adhesive or cement mortar.

Our Z Clad system has metal fixing bracket on the cladding panels to mechanically fix the cladding panels to the wall using screws. This additional fixing method ensures longevity and suitable for using on commercial and high rise buildings.

Natural stone cladding is often recommended to be sealed, but whether you need to seal it depends on the type of stone and its location.

Why Seal Stone Cladding?

• Protects Against Stains – Stone like sandstone or limestone is porous and can absorb spills, dirt, and grease.
  
• Weather Resistance – Sealing helps exterior walls resist water penetration, frost damage, and algae/moss growth.
  
• Enhances Colour & Texture – A sealant can bring out the natural tones and textures of the stone for a richer finish.
  
• Easier Maintenance – Sealed surfaces are simpler to clean and less prone to grime buildup.
  

Which Stones Typically Need Sealing?

• Sandstone, limestone, and travertine – highly porous, usually benefit from sealing.
  
• Slate or granite – often denser and may not require sealing unless desired for aesthetic purposes.

Tips for Sealing Stone Cladding

1. Ensure the stone is clean and dry before applying the sealant.
   
2. Use a high-quality, breathable stone sealer to allow moisture to escape.
   
3. Apply 2–3 thin coats for best protection.
   
4. Reapply periodically (every 2–5 years depending on exposure) to maintain effectiveness.
   

Sealing isn’t always mandatory, but it extends the life and beauty of your stone cladding, especially outdoors or in high-traffic areas.

Attach stone cladding easily using adhesive for indoor walls or mortar for exterior walls. First, make sure your wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Apply adhesive or mortar, press the stones firmly into place, and leave small gaps for a natural finish. Once set, fill the joints and optionally seal the stone for extra protection.

Yes, our full range of stone cladding can be ordered online with nationwide delivery. Each product unit equals 1 sqm.

Yes. Our natural stone cladding is weather-resistant and durable, making it an excellent choice for exterior façades, garden walls, and landscaping projects.

Yes, samples of our Natural Stone Cladding can be ordered via the product page and cost a smalle fee of £12 (inc VAT) to cover packaging and postage costs.