Upgrade Your Columns with Stone Veneer

Stone columns are a popular way to add timeless beauty and architectural interest to your home exterior. Whether you're enhancing a front porch, framing a driveway, or adding structure to a patio or pergola, manufactured stone veneer columns deliver stunning results. When planning your project, you’ll likely choose between two options: using individual manufactured stone veneer pieces or buying a pre-made column kit. While both options can give you a stone-like finish, individual stone veneer offers more flexibility, durability, and visual appeal.

What is manufactured stone veneer?

Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a lightweight, concrete-based material molded and colored to replicate the appearance of natural stone. It's ideal for exterior and interior applications, including columns, fireplaces, accent walls, and siding. MSV is much easier to install than real stone and can be used to wrap wood, steel, or concrete posts to create custom stone columns.

Pre-made stone column kits: quick but Limiting

Pre-made column kits are factory-made systems that include pre-sized panels and corner pieces. These kits are marketed for their convenience and DIY-friendly installation.

Pros of column kits: fast and easy installation, designed for standard column sizes, minimal cutting or masonry work.

Cons of column kits: limited design options, fixed dimensions don’t fit custom posts, repeating patterns can look artificial, visible seams reduce the natural stone look, often don’t match other MSV elements on the property.

Why individual manufactured stone veneer is the better choice

For homeowners, designers, and contractors looking for a professional, high-end finish, individual MSV stones are the clear winner, here's why:

1. Custom fit for any column size: unlike pre-made kits, individual stones can be cut and arranged to fit any post size or shape. Whether your column is round, square, tapered, or oversized, MSV adapts seamlessly.

2. Natural, seamless appearance: individual manufactured stone veneer allows for hand-placed installation, creating a natural, staggered layout. There are no visible seams or repeated patterns like in many panel kits.

4. Greater design flexibility: choose from a wide variety of stone profiles, sizes, and color blends. You can match your stone columns to nearby walls, facades, or fireplaces for a cohesive look.

5. Stronger, long-lasting installation: individual MSV is typically installed over a lath and scratch coat using mortar, creating a more durable bond than adhesive-based kits. It’s better suited for exterior applications and harsh weather conditions.

6. Improved curb appeal and home value: stone columns built with individual MSV look more like traditional masonry. This hand-crafted aesthetic adds real curb appeal and can increase your home’s resale value.

Ideal uses for manufactured stone veneer columns

Front porch posts: wrap wooden porch columns with stone veneer for a warm, inviting entrance.

Driveway entrance columns: frame your driveway with bold, stone-wrapped posts.

Pergolas and outdoor structures: add a stone base to patio pergolas, arbors, or shade structures.

Fencing and gates: use MSV to build statement gate posts or accent fencing.

Upgrade your columns with stone veneer

If you're investing in stone columns, don't settle for the limitations of a pre-made kit. Individual manufactured stone veneer gives you the freedom to customize, the strength to last, and the visual impact to elevate your home’s exterior. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with a professional mason, using individual MSV stones ensures your columns look authentic, natural, and built to last.