Cast stone is a popular choice for both new home builds and renovations and restorations. Due to its more affordable price and ability to act like natural stone, cast stone can be used for many different applications in and around buildings. Whether you want to create an air of quality in your home with cast stone window sills or in your garden with cast stone pillar caps, there are many cast stone products to choose from. If you want to begin your journey with decorative stonework, this guide will explain the versatility of cast stone products and how you may incorporate them into your build or renovation.
Keep reading to learn more.
What is cast stone?
Cast stone is a man-made stone made by combining cement, water, and aggregates (such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone) and then casting it into moulds. It is often used as a decorative or architectural element and can be made to look like natural stone. Cast stone is often used as a substitute for natural stone because it is more affordable and easier to work with. It is also available in a wider range of colours and textures than natural stone. Some examples of cast stone products include window sills, copings, pier caps, porticos, decorative items and post stones.
The benefits of using cast stone
Cast stone is great for a variety of reasons, including:
- Affordability - Cast stone can be produced at a fraction of the cost of natural stone such as limestone, so it is a much more wallet-friendly option. Cast stone can be created with an efficient production process helping to reduce material waste and labour costs. Along with a wide range of moulds and the ability to replicate the appearance of limestone, cast stone is a cost-effective option without the need to compromise on aesthetics.
- Durability - A key advantage of cast stone is that it offers exceptional durability. It is made using crushed natural stone or gravel and high-quality cementitious materials. This combination results in a product that exhibits strength and resistance to weathering. If you opt for limestone over cast stone, you may find it is susceptible to erosion and discolouration over time. Whereas cast stone will maintain its structural integrity.
- Design flexibility - When it comes to design, cast stone offers greater flexibility compared to limestone. It allows architects and designers a wide range of options to help them achieve their desired look. The manufacturing of cast stone allows for a great deal of intricate detailing and the ability to replicate a diverse range of textures, shapes and patterns.
- Ease of installation - Cast stone is lighter than other forms of natural stone and is therefore much easier to move and transport. This is essential for large-scale projects in hard-to-reach places.
Types of cast stone products
Here are the different types of cast stone products:
Concrete sills
A cast stone window sill is a decorative piece that is installed at the bottom of a window opening. Cast stone window sills are often used to add a touch of elegance to a home, and they can also help to protect the window from water damage. Cast stone window sills are available as stooled sills and slip sills, based on your aesthetic preference. Stooled sills project past the window opening for stone jambs or brickwork to sit on. Whereas slip sills sit only within the window reveals so the window isn’t emphasised by any projecting stonework.
Copings
Cast stone copings are precast concrete pieces that are used to cap the edges of walls, such as retaining walls, pool copings, and fireplace surrounds. They are typically made from a mixture of cement, sand, and aggregates, and are then moulded into the desired shape. Cast stone copings can be either smooth or textured and can be finished in a variety of colours. They are a durable and attractive way to finish the edges of walls and can help to protect them from the elements. They are also helpful in protecting your walls against weathering and erosion.
Pier caps and pillar caps
Cast stone pier caps are decorative concrete caps that are used to protect and finish the top of concrete piers. They are typically made from a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel, and can be moulded into a variety of shapes and designs. Cast stone pier caps can be used to add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space, and they can also help to protect piers from the elements. They can also act as foundations for lighting, finials and ornaments, the possibilities are endless.
Porticos
Cast stone porticos offer an elegant architectural statement to a property. You can find anything from impressive traditional designs to sleek contemporary designs. Adding cast stone porticos to your property is a great way to completely transform the appearance of your property. Cast stone porticos are an ideal way to transform both older buildings and new builds. Discussing your ideas with your cast stone supplier will help you create the perfect design for your home.
Decorative items
Cast stone decorative items are made by pouring liquid concrete into a mould and then allowing it to harden. They can be used to create a variety of objects, such as fountains, statues, and garden ornaments. Cast stone is a durable material that can withstand the elements, making it a popular choice for outdoor use. It is also relatively easy to work with, which makes it a good choice for DIY projects. Some cast stone suppliers specialise in particular types of cast stone decorative items such as ball finials. You can also get custom-made decorative items such as plaques for your home name or number can discuss with a cast stone supplier which you can discuss with a cast stone supplier.
Post stone
Cast stone post stones are a type of decorative stone that is used to create posts for fences, walls, and other structures. They are the stones that hold the post or pillar in place while boosting the visual appeal of your property. Cast stone post stones can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be finished with a variety of textures and colours. They are a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable, attractive, and easy to install.
Balustrades
A balustrade is a railing or barrier along the edge of a staircase, balcony, or other elevated surface. Cast stone Balustrades offer a beautiful feature for balconies and walkways. They can be manufactured to match original designs or contemporary architectural details with quality fibreglass or polyurethane moulds. Balustrades are designed to provide safety and prevent people from falling over the edge of the surface they are protecting.
Benches
Cast stone benches are a great addition to parks and gardens because they are durable and weather-resistant. Cast stone benches can be made in a variety of different moulds and are able to match a range of different design aesthetics. Whatever style you are looking for, a cast stone supplier will be able to create the perfect stone bench for your outdoor area.
If you’re looking for quality cast stone products such as concrete sills, precast stone, decorative stonework or pillar caps, Shropshire Brick & Stone is here to help. We can create a variety of different stonework made from quality cast stone. To learn more, get in touch with our team today, we will be happy to discuss your requirements. We can make porticos, pier caps, post stones, copings and much more. Call us today on 01743 861111.
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