Following our recent visit to Self Build Extend & Renovate, we’ve put together the most common questions our team were asked throughout the event.

How much does stone cladding cost?

The cost of natural stone cladding depends on the stone type, quantity required, and the complexity of installation. Prices typically range per square meter, and thickness.  Our team can guide you based on your project size. We have options to suit different budgets, and we’re always happy to provide advice or a quotation.

Is stone cladding suitable for extensions?

Yes — Natural stone cladding is one of the most popular choices for extensions. It blends beautifully with existing homes, adds character, and provides a long-lasting, durable finish. he beauty is that it’s so durable and doesn’t fall off overtime. It is suitable for:

• Extensions

• Garden rooms

• Porches

• Garages

• Walls and Feature pieces

• Renovations & new builds

Stone vs Render — what are the pros and cons?

Stone Cladding – Pros:

• Natural, rustic and timeless appearance

• Extremely durable and weather-resistant

• Very low maintenance

• Adds value to the property

Cons:

• Requires a skilled installer to make the finish look natural. We highly recommend using a skilled stonemason to fit your stone, this will ensure you receive all the benefit, including a timeless natural appearance and durability.

Render – Pros:

• Lower upfront cost

• Wide colour choice

Cons:

• More prone to cracking

• Requires ongoing maintenance

• Can discolour over time

Most homeowners choose stone for its long-term durability and premium finish. Architect’s add Natural Stone to add a feature and texture to the home appearance, and this usually increases the value.

How do I clean and maintain natural stone?

Natural stone is very low maintenance. A simple rinse with clean water once or twice a year is usually enough. You can use a soft brush to remove dirt or algae. Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure power washing. If your stone is sealed, re-sealing may be required every few years depending on exposure.

What should I look for in a good stonemason or installer?

You should choose an installer who:

• Has experience specifically with natural stone cladding

• Can show examples of previous work

• Understands correct fixing methods

• Works neatly and professionally

• Can offer guidance on layout and patterning

Stone Solutions works closely with reliable independent tradespeople and can recommend trusted stonemasons if needed. We also have our own in-house team of trademen who fit in Northern Ireland. We highly recommend booking in advance.

How long does stone cladding take to install?

Installation time depends on the size and complexity of your project. On average:

• Small porch: 1–2 days

• Feature wall: 1–3 days

• Full house or large extension: Several days to 1–2 weeks

• Larger home with full walls 3 weeks+ 

Your installer will be able to give a more accurate estimate based on your project.

Stone Solutions carries the largest range of natural stone in Northern Ireland, offering options to suit every style of home, from traditional to modern. Our collection includes:

• Basalt

• Sandstone

• Limestone

• Slate

What if you don’t have the stone I’m looking for?

We carry the largest range of natural stone in Northern Ireland, but if you still can’t find the right option, get in touch. We can source specific stone types and help you achieve exactly the look you want.

Can I buy stone from Stone Solutions and have my own stonemason install it?

Yes — you can purchase stone directly from us and use your own installer.
We only offer installation within Northern Ireland, but we work with many independent stonemasons and are happy to recommend someone suitable for your project.

Do you fit stone cladding in the Republic of Ireland?

We supply natural stone throughout the island of Ireland; however, our installation service is currently available only within Northern Ireland.
If you are based in the Republic of Ireland, you are very welcome to purchase stone from us and use your own stonemason for installation.
We can also provide guidance or recommend independent installers who work across different regions.

Do I need an appointment to visit the showroom?

No appointment is required.
You can visit anytime during our opening hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9:30am – 4:30pm

• Saturday: 9:30am – 12:00pm

Our team will be happy to help you explore our full natural stone range.

Can I mix different natural stones to create a unique finish?

Yes — many of our customers choose to mix stone types to create a customised design. Our team can advise on tones, textures, and combinations to help you achieve a unique, personalised finish.

How do I arrange to get a quote? Do you come out to measure?

You can request a quote by contacting us directly, visiting our showroom, or sending us photos or plans of your project. This gives us everything we need to provide accurate guidance on stone options and pricing.

At the moment, we do carry out on-site measuring, as this is normally handled once you choose your cladding etc.  If you don’t have an installer yet, we can recommend trusted independent tradespeople who can measure and fit the stone for you.

You can reach Stone Solutions easily by phone, email, or by visiting our showroom in Magherafelt. Our team is always happy to help with product advice, pricing, and project guidance.

Phone: 079 4637 4618

Email: info@stone-solutions.co.uk

Showroom: 39a Motalee Road, Magherafelt, BT45 5JU

Opening Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

• Saturday: 9:30am – 12:00pm

You can also message us through our website or social media pages, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.