Knowing how to care for your stone veneer siding is essential to its long-term looks and performance. Since damage that results from improper cleaning of Versetta Stone® siding can void its warranty, it is essential to learn how to clean and maintain it properly.
As one of the top stone veneer products, Versetta Stone siding gives your home a gorgeous, distinct look. Used as an accent to your home’s exterior, it delivers stunning beauty you’ll want to preserve.
Here are some maintenance tips to keep your Versetta Stone siding looking beautiful for its lifetime.
Tips Maintaining and Cleaning Versetta Stone
1. Take extra precautions when cleaning your stone veneer siding
Versetta Stone siding can be susceptible to damage from some cleaning products. When washing your stone veneer, make a gentle cleaning solution by filling a bucket with water and adding mild dish soap. Scrub your stone siding lightly with a soft sponge dipped in your solution. Rinse your sponge frequently throughout the cleaning process. Next, rinse the veneer with a garden hose to remove all the soap.
Pro tips: Avoid using any type of abrasive brush while cleaning your stone veneer as it could harm your siding. Skip the temptation to use a power washer as it could damage your Versetta Stone siding quickly and permanently, leaving your home vulnerable to moisture intrusion. Do not use acid-based chemicals intended for natural stone on your manufactured stone, as they are too harsh and can stain the veneer.
2. Inspect your Versetta Stone siding twice a year and after major storms
Each spring and fall (and after harsh weather moves through our area), it is wise to do a visual home inspection by walking around your exterior and looking carefully at everything from windows to doors, siding, caulking, and roofing. Check your stone veneer’s condition and ensure that hail, snow, ice, or high winds haven’t created loose, missing, or damaged stones. Check the integrity of the grout to confirm it is doing its job. Next, ensure the stones aren’t developing cracks (which can cause problems down the road if left unaddressed).
Pro tip: If you find issues with your Versetta Stone during your visual inspection, address them promptly so they don’t lead to costly moisture intrusion or pest infestation.
3. Avoid using salt and de-icing chemicals outside near your Versetta Stone
Twin Cities winters can be extreme, and to take proper care of your stone veneer siding, you’ll need to keep salt and de-icing chemicals away. If you use these harsh elements in areas adjacent to your stone veneer, they may splash onto it, cause damage, and negatively impact your warranty.
Pro tip: To preserve your siding without putting yourself at risk of slipping on snow or ice, find an alternative to salt and de-icing chemicals to make your walkways less slippery.
4. Apply a sealer to your stone veneer
Use a breathable sealer, like the kind made for stained concrete, to help preserve your stone veneer for its lifetime. Veneer is porous and absorbent; applying a sealer can help it maintain its beauty and high performance.
Pro tip: To apply a sealer, brush it on with a paintbrush. Allow it to dry after the first coat before adding a second coat. Do notn’t apply more than two coats, as too much sealer can negatively impact your stone veneer, hindering its breathing ability.
5. Repoint your stone veneer siding
“Repointing” is the cutting out of damaged mortar joints and filling them with fresh mortar. It’s an integral part of maintaining stone veneer over the years.
Pro tip: If you decide to DIY, fill a mortar bag with vinyl-infused driveway patching mortar. Add grout color if applicable. With latex gloves protecting your hands, apply a bead of mortar to any cracks around your stones and smooth the mortar with a damp (glove-covered) finger.
Stone Veneer Siding Made Easy
Imagine modernizing your home exterior with stone veneer siding accents. Simply choose the perfect color and texture to reflect your style, and we’ll take it from there.
At Beissel Window & Siding, we install Versetta Stone the right way so you can enjoy optimal performance and stunning looks for its lifetime. Sit back and enjoy this custom accent that adds interest and value to your home. Learn more about Versetta Stone siding.
