The product can consist of different compositions such as concrete based, plastic, polyurethane, or a combination of these. Simulated rock can be applied for a variety of commercial or residential uses, such as drywall beautification, kitchen islands, window trims, foundation skirts, home siding, and deck siding says Dickerson. The panels may be applied over interior or exterior walls to provide accent or cover the entire surface. "The faux siding will give any home the look of natural stone," says Dickerson.
According to Maconline.org (Masonry Advisory Council), "Cast stone is defined as 'a refined architectural concrete building unit manufactured to simulate natural cut stone, used in unit masonry applications'. Cast stone is a masonry product, used as an architectural feature, trim, ornament or facing for buildings, or other structures. Cast stone can be made from white or gray cements, manufactured or natural sands, carefully selected crushed stone, or well graded natural gravels, and mineral coloring pigments to achieve the desired color, and appearance while maintaining durable physical properties, which exceed most natural cut building stones. Cast stone is an excellent replacement for natural cut limestone, brownstone, sandstone, bluestone, granite, slate, keystone, travertine and other natural building stones." Simulated siding may require occasional rinsing with a garden hose, and some products require a coating be applied when installed. When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals on these products. Once the product is installed, it requires no special maintenance and will last for a very long time.
Faux siding is a product that imitates almost any material such as brick, stucco, slate, rock, and wood. The product offers the ability to achieve certain looks with out hiring masons or other tradesmen to complete the work. "Wood, stone and plaster look-alikes so convincing, you would swear they are the real thing," says Joe Carter at Thisoldhouse.com. The faux materials can cost the same or more then the traditional materials they are replacing, but are virtually maintenance free. Some faux products can be left unattended for at least 20 or 30 years. With real materials, weather can ruin the product. Depending on the climate and the material, most real products require a lot of care and homeowners are not willing to give up their spare time reapplying products. With faux materials, homeowners do not have to spend a lot of time caring for them. Most new homes are using faux materials, but up close the product looks like an imposter. A homeowner should choose faux products that don't give their secret away, so research to see which ones are the best kept secret. There are several faux products that are so real looking one cannot tell the difference.
