Ok, fellow DIYers: are you ready to lay your own stone? Pinterest makes DIY projects look easy breezy, but sometimes a project requires a little more work than originally anticipated! Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself before you dive in.

1. MONEY: According to Remodeling's Cost vs. Value Study (link), manufactured stone veneer (MSV) has consistently remained in the top 3 highest return on investment of home remodeling projects, returning over 97% of its cost. MSV is typically half the price of "real" stone, and a lot easier to handle. You could save a lot of money upfront and in the long run by choosing MSV.
2. BEAUTY: Yes, we CAN make our homes look like those Pinterest houses! So why choose stone to do the Pinterest-worthy trick? Stone adds texture and natural color in places that would otherwise be dulled by standard construction materials, like dry wall. It brings the roots of our earth into your home and simply looks stunning.
3. TIMELESS: Shiplap is beautiful, but it is a trend (yes I just said that!). Stone has been in the foundations of earth for centuries and will never fade away. Depending on your color choice, stone truly is timeless.

The first time I laid 5 square feet of stone, it took me about 3 hours. Masons reading that line will laugh! But it takes time to properly construct the foundation your stone is going on, prepare and gather the right materials, and lay out your design. It does get much easier as you go along, but it will take time and energy up front. Plus, it is a messy process! We actually have an Installation Guide available 24/7 on our site, and can recommend various YouTube videos!

Your small fireplace could take you 2 hours, or 2 weeks, depending in your pace. There is no race and no competition for your unique project. We have a 30 year warranty on the color of our stone, so it is meant to last for generations. Once stone binds with mortar, it's extremely difficult (though not impossible) to remove from the original surface. At the end of the day, no matter how long it takes you or how many times you want to change out the color and style, will you be happy once it's complete?

I want to understand why I am doing something before I do it, and want to know the true impact of what that thing will have on my daily life. I hope these questions have helped shed some light on the reality of this DIY project. Whether you are ready to start laying your fireplace this second, or you want to wait a little bit longer, please know that you CAN do this! Even roses take time to bloom! We are always here to help so please feel free to contact us any time!