Frequently Asked Questions
Share
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Black Bear Mountain Stone, our stone veneer, and our brick veneer. Have more questions? Feel free to ask in the comments, we’re happy to help.
Is your stone veneer and brick veneer natural stone, or are they manufactured (man-made)?
Black Bear Mountain Stone is not natural stone, it is a high-quality manufactured stone veneer designed to closely replicate the look and feel of real stone while offering greater consistency, easier installation, and long-term durability. Our stone veneer is man-made using Portland cement, natural aggregates, and iron oxide pigments. Every step of the production process is strictly monitored to ensure consistent quality. Featuring Color Lock Technology, the face color includes bonding agents that help resist fading caused by harsh environmental conditions, cleaning products, and even pressure washing. For full details, please refer to our installation and maintenance guides available on our post-purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about is manufactured stone veneer real stone? and our blog post about is stone veneer cheaper than real stone?
Is Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer available as individual stones, or as stone panels?
The majority of our stone profiles are made up of individual stones. These stones vary in size, shape, and thickness, and achieving the natural, authentic look shown in our photos depends on the installer properly blending and patterning the stones during installation, placing each stone individually. If you’re looking for a panel-style option, our ready stack profile is a mini-panel stone system installed in sections. Each panel is 4″ high, with varying lengths (5.5″, 8.25″, 11″, and 16.5″) and thicknesses ranging from 1.5″ to 2.5″. Each ready stack panel features multiple stones on the face. As with individual stones, achieving the finished look shown in our images depends on the installer arranging and installing each panel in the correct pattern, one panel at a time. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer panels vs. individual stones or our blog post about individual stones or stone panels? and our blog post about do you manufacture stone panels?
What materials is Black Bear Mountain Stone made from?
Black Bear Mountain Stone is a manufactured product made from Portland cement and iron oxide pigments for color. The use of Portland cement helps keep Black Bear Mountain Stone significantly lighter than natural stone and traditional brick siding. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer proudly made in the USA!
How does architectural stone differ from cultured stone and manufactured stone veneer?
Most stone veneer and brick veneer products, which are molded to resemble natural stone or real brick siding, are commonly referred to by any or all of these names. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer or faux stone panels? and our blog post about manufactured stone veneer or natural stone?
What are faux stone panels, and how do they differ from stone veneer?
Faux stone panels are lightweight, molded panels, typically made from plastic, polyurethane, or foam, designed to mimic the appearance of stone. They are usually produced in large sections that install directly onto a wall, making them popular for fast, decorative applications where speed and ease matter more than long-term durability or realism. Stone veneer, by contrast, is made from cement and installed piece by piece using traditional masonry methods. This installation approach allows for greater depth, texture, and natural variation, resulting in a much more authentic, stone-like appearance that closely replicates the look and feel of real stone. You can also read our blog post about is stone veneer better than faux stone panels?
Is it possible to view your stone veneer and brick veneer before making a purchase?
When it comes to your home renovation or building project, choosing the right product is crucial. While we provide high-quality images of all our products, sometimes pictures aren’t enough, that’s why we now offer samples of all our stone veneer and brick veneer! Our samples, typically covering a 6" x 6" area, are made from the actual product. They let you see and feel the stone or brick, giving you a true sense of weight, thickness, color, and variation. We encourage all customers to test our samples to ensure they meet your expectations. If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help! As an added bonus, shipping for Black Bear Mountain Stone samples is free within the continental USA. For orders shipping to Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, please contact us for shipping rates. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer samples and our blog post about order stone veneer samples.
I’m looking for design inspiration; do you have an image gallery I can browse?
We feature several images on our website, but you can view our full gallery on Pinterest or our Facebook page. Don’t forget to also check out our customer reviews and testimonials! You can also read our blog post about stone veneer completed installation images.
Can I buy Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer in a physical store?
Unfortunately, we do not sell our products through local distributors or retail stores. All Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer products are available exclusively through our website. This allows us to maintain consistent quality, offer a full range of products, and provide direct support to our customers throughout the selection and purchasing process. You can also read our blog post about buy stone veneer online.
Where is your company located?
Our production facility is located in Fair Play, in the Upstate region of South Carolina, and we ship orders nationwide. Learn more about us.
Do you have a showroom?
We invite you to visit us in Fair Play, South Carolina, by appointment only, to explore our premium stone veneer collections. Scheduling an appointment allows us to provide personalized service and gives you the chance to experience our products up close, from their realistic textures to their carefully crafted colors. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for inspiration, a contractor planning an upcoming project, or an architect finalizing design details, our knowledgeable team will be on hand to answer questions and offer expert guidance. To book an appointment, please email us at info@blackbearmountainstone.com. We look forward to helping bring your vision to life.
How can I determine the right amount of stone veneer to order?
The easiest way to calculate how much stone veneer you’ll need is to measure the length and height of the area where you’ll be installing our stone veneer and multiply them to get the total square footage required. Corners aren’t required but can provide a polished, professional look by wrapping neatly around a 90-degree outside corner. If you plan to use corners, you’ll need to calculate the lineal feet needed by measuring the height of all outside corners, as corners are sold by the lineal foot. Keep in mind that outside corners differ from inside corners. For inside corners, simply use our flats, install a flat piece into the corner and another flat piece on the adjacent side. If you’d like assistance, feel free to email us your project dimensions at info@blackbearmountainstone.com. We’ll help you estimate the number of flats and corners needed to complete your project. You can also read our blog post about estimating how much stone veneer you'll need and our blog post about how much stone veneer do you need for your project?
Is there a minimum order requirement?
Our website requires a minimum order for all products to ensure they are shipped safely. Unfortunately, orders below this minimum cannot be processed. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer minimum order amounts.
Can you assist me in matching my existing stone veneer?
Matching existing stone, whether natural or manufactured, can be challenging because of variations in color, texture, age, and lighting. We’re happy to provide guidance to help you achieve the closest match. To get started, email a few high-quality photos of your current stone to info@blackbearmountainstone.com, and our team will work with you to find the best match from our selection. You can also read our blog post about how to match existing stone veneer.
What is the weight of your stone veneer?
Each 10 square foot box of stone veneer weighs approximately 80-90 lbs, while boxes of corners weigh about 70-80 lbs per box. A 150 square foot box weighs roughly 1,450 lbs. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer thickness & weight.
What are the size dimensions of your stone veneer?
On each product page, there’s a section titled “dimensions” located to the right of the images and below the product overview. Expand this section to view the flats and corner dimensions for every product we offer. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer thickness & weight.
Do you provide matching corners for your stone veneer?
Corners aren’t required, but they provide a polished, professional look by wrapping neatly around 90-degree outside corners. If you choose to use corners, calculate the lineal feet needed by measuring the height of all outside corners, as our corners are sold by the lineal foot. Each product page includes options for both flats and corners (located to the right of the main product image). Note that outside corners differ from inside corners. For inside corners, simply use our flats, install a flat piece into the corner and another flat piece on the adjacent side. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer corner pieces.
How is shipping handled?
Deliveries are made by a truck equipped with a liftgate and pallet jack, so no loading dock is required. However, having a forklift on site makes unloading and moving your order much easier. For more details, please refer to our full terms of service and shipping policy. You can also read our blog post about do you ship stone veneer to my state?
What are the shipping costs?
At Black Bear Mountain Stone, we understand that convenience and affordability are paramount considerations for our customers. That's why we're thrilled to introduce free shipping* on our entire range of stone veneer and brick veneer products. With this enticing offer, you can enjoy the convenience of delivery without the burden of additional shipping costs, allowing you to allocate your budget towards realizing your design vision. Whether you're embarking on a DIY renovation project or collaborating with a professional contractor, our free shipping service ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience from start to finish. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer with free shipping?
How long will it take for my order to ship?
All of our products are made to order. Currently, production times are approximately 2-4 weeks for samples and 4-6 weeks for larger orders, depending on the size of your order. It’s important to plan your project with this production time frame in mind. Shipping times vary based on your location and our shipping partners, and it may take several additional days for delivery. Once your order is processed, you’ll receive an email with an estimated ready to ship date. After your order ships, you’ll receive another email with tracking information. For more details, please refer to our full terms of service and shipping policy.
What if I need my stone veneer delivered sooner?
We can sometimes adjust our production schedule to accommodate urgent project deadlines. However, please note that expedited production and shipping may incur an additional premium to prioritize your order. If you require a faster turnaround, we recommend contacting us as early as possible to discuss availability, timing, and any associated costs so we can do our best to meet your project needs.
Can I pick up my stone veneer?
Orders can be picked up directly from our location. However, because our website doesn’t currently offer a pick-up option, the order must be processed manually. Please email us at info@blackbearmountainstone.com, and we’ll assist you with arranging a pick-up order.
What kind of warranty do you offer on your stone veneer and brick veneer?
Our stone veneer and brick veneer come with a 50 year warranty covering manufacturing defects, provided the product is used on structures that comply with local building codes and installed according to the manufacturer’s written instructions. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from wall movement, structural settlement, staining, oxidation, paint, or contact with chemicals. Warranty coverage is limited to the replacement of defective materials only; labor costs are not included. The manufacturer’s warranty must be validated with the original paperwork. For complete warranty details or to download a PDF copy, please visit our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about how long will stone veneer last?
Is stone veneer waterproof?
Stone veneer is not inherently waterproof, so proper installation is essential to prevent moisture related issues such as mold, efflorescence, and structural damage. A high-quality water resistive barrier (WRB) should be installed behind the stone veneer to protect the underlying structure from moisture, this serves as the first line of defense against water infiltration. Proper flashing around windows, doors, and other vulnerable areas is critical to direct water away from the wall and prevent pooling behind the veneer. Additionally, a drainage plane or weep screed should be included to allow any water that penetrates behind the stone to escape, preventing damage over time. Please note that installations without proper drainage systems are not covered under warranty. For complete warranty details or to download a PDF copy, please visit our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about is stone veneer waterproof?
Is stone veneer fire-resistant?
Our stone veneer is classified as non-combustible, meaning it won’t catch fire or spread flames. However, substrates and adhesives may be affected by heat, so always follow fire codes, local building codes, and manufacturer guidelines for safe clearances from heat sources like wood stoves, fireplaces, and BBQs. Stone veneer should never contact direct flames. Warranty claims will be denied if proper clearances are not maintained or if the veneer comes in direct contact with heat. For complete warranty details or to download a PDF copy, please visit our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about is stone veneer fire resistant? and our blog post about is stone veneer good for a fireplace?
How do I install Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer?
Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer are designed for all skill levels, from DIY enthusiasts to professional contractors. For complete installation instructions or to download a PDF copy, please visit our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about common mistakes in stone veneer installation and our blog post about tips and best practices for stone veneer installations.
Is Black Bear Mountain Stone DIY friendly?
Stone veneer is more user-friendly than natural stone, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. With proper preparation, the right tools, and careful attention to detail, many homeowners are able to successfully install manufactured stone veneer on their own. You can also read our blog post about common DIY stone veneer installation mistakes.
What kind of adhesive is recommended for installation?
Our stone veneer should be installed using Type S mortar to ensure proper adhesion, durability, and long-term performance. Type S mortar is ideal because of its superior strength, moisture resistance, and longevity. While some adhesives may work in limited applications, they do not provide the same level of reliability, especially for exterior or high-heat installations. For a long-lasting, structurally sound stone veneer project, always use Type S mortar. Warranty claims will be denied for installations that do not use Type S mortar. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer mortar vs. adhesive or our blog post about what type of mortar should you use for stone veneer? and our blog post about can you install stone veneer with construction adhesive?
Can stone veneer be installed over cement board, drywall, or brick surfaces?
Stone veneer can be installed over a variety of substrates, but proper surface preparation is essential and varies depending on the material. Common substrates include concrete, masonry, exterior sheathing, cement board, and framed walls, each requiring specific preparation to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation. For full installation instructions or to download a PDF copy please see our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about can you install stone veneer over brick?
Can stone veneer be cut?
Yes, manufactured stone veneer can be cut, and it’s often an essential part of achieving a clean, professional installation. Using the proper tools and techniques allows you to shape the veneer to fit your layout while preserving the realistic texture and authentic appearance that make stone veneer so appealing.
Where is your stone veneer suitable for installation?
Our stone veneer is suitable for both interior and exterior applications, including, but not limited to, kitchens, bathrooms, accent walls, fireplaces, BBQs, wood-burning stoves, and chimneys. It can also be used for columns, posts, retaining walls, foundations, and underpinning for decorative purposes only. Stone veneer should never be used for structural support; warranty claims will be denied if it is installed in a load-bearing capacity. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer for exteriors and our blog post about the difference between interior & exterior stone veneer.
Does stone veneer require grout?
Manufactured stone veneer can be installed with or without grout, depending on the desired style. Profiles like ledgestone or stacked stone are designed for dry stacking with no grout, while others, such as fieldstone or river rock, often use grout to achieve a more traditional appearance. You can also read our blog post about dry stack vs. grouted stone veneer.
Can your stone veneer be used for flooring?
Stone veneer is designed for wall applications and is not suitable for flooring because it lacks the durability, even surface, and strength needed to withstand foot traffic. For a stone like floor, use natural stone, porcelain tile, or other materials specifically made for flooring. Warranty claims will be denied for any installations where stone veneer is used as flooring. You can also read our blog post about why stone veneer cannot be used on floors.
Is it possible to blend different stone veneer profiles together?
Different stone veneer profiles can be blended to create a unique, custom look. Adjusting the proportion of each profile allows you to refine the overall style. A common blend of small and large profiles uses roughly 80% smaller profiles (such as ledgestone or stacked stone) and 20% larger profiles (like fieldstone, limestone, or Hackett stone). You can also blend two smaller profiles, such as stacked stone and ledgestone. For this combination, a 50/50 split is recommended, though all percentages are fully customizable. Additionally, multiple colors can be combined in varying proportions to achieve the exact appearance you want. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer blending.
How should I clean Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer?
To clean Black Bear Mountain Stone brick veneer and stone veneer, use a non-etching concrete cleaner to remove clay, dirt, mortar residue, or other stains. A pressure washer can be used, but it should not exceed 3,000 psi, use a yellow tip (wide fan), and maintain a minimum distance of 18” from the stone. After the stone and mortar are fully cured, cleaned, and dry, we recommend applying a water-based concrete sealer to help repel the elements and keep the stone looking its best. NEVER USE A WIRE BRUSH OR ACID TO CLEAN STONE. For full care and maintenance details or to download a PDF copy please see our post purchase support page. You can also read our blog post about stone veneer care & maintenance and our blog post about stone veneer cleaning & maintenance.
Does your stone veneer require sealing?
Sealing your stone veneer with a concrete sealer is not required, but it does provide added protection, especially over the mortar joints. Keep in mind that different sealers can affect the appearance of the stone. A matte (flat) finish will have little to no impact, while a gloss finish will darken the stone and give it a wet look. We recommend testing any sealer on an uninstalled piece of stone veneer to ensure you’re satisfied with the appearance. Sealing is highly recommended for installations in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas. Warranty claims will be denied for these applications if the stone veneer has not been properly sealed. You can also read our blog post about does manufactured stone need sealing? and our blog post about what stone sealer do you recommend for your stone veneer?
What is your return policy?
We will gladly accept the return of products that are defective due to defects in manufacturing and/or workmanship for 30 days from the date of purchase. Fulfillment mistakes that we make resulting in the shipment of incorrect product to you will also be accepted for return 30 days from the date of purchase. For further information please see our full terms of service and our full refund policy.
What's next?
Enhance your home with premium manufactured stone veneer, showcasing authentic textures and rich, natural tones. Order a sample to see the craftsmanship up close or shop now to start a durable, timeless project.
Have a question?
Please see our full terms of service.
For general information and questions please call: (864) 882-8960 Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm (EST) or email: info@blackbearmountainstone.com we are more than happy to help you.
Or you can submit your questions via our contact us page.
We look forward to working with you on your upcoming project.
The Black Bear Mountain Stone Team
Pictured is stack stone ozark.
