3 Reasons You Need to See Natural Stone in Person to Make the Best Selection

Researching and comparing building material options is an important first step when planning for your project. Once a material like Thinstone Veneer is selected, the next "natural" step would be to see the potential stone collection(s) in person. To start the process of selection, it can be helpful to look at a catalog, photos, or website pages to learn basic details about a stone including color ranges, textures, and variations. There are some aspects you need to experience in person, though, so you can ensure the right fit and long-term satisfaction with the outcome of your project. Here are the top three reasons seeing Thinstone Veneer in person will prepare you to make the best selection. 

American Mist Ashlar stone wall at Delgado Stone's manufacturing facility.

1. You can see the full color range, texture, and variations that make natural stone collection unique. You can see from our Thinstone Veneer Products page that each stone has a primary color, with a mix of other colors and color ranges. The texture can vary from piece to piece, which is part of what gives it character and appeal. The appearance is also affected by which pattern is chosen, and whether it features the face or the end grain of the stone. While no two projects look the same in the end, seeing the stone in person gives you a close-up, in-person view of what you can anticipate, which is far more reliable than choosing from a photo or onscreen. 

2. Seeing Thinstone veneer in person helps you envision what it looks like in your space. Colors in print catalogs and digital resources aren't always a perfect representation, although they can help narrow down selections in the earlier stages of planning. When you can pick up and touch natural stone samples, and see what they look like in your existing space surrounded by other features, you get a real idea of what your project will look like and what colors and collections are right for you. 

3. Expertise from industry professionals is a valuable resource when making product decisions. When you talk with a professional in the natural stone industry, from masons and contractors to Authorized Dealers, you get the benefit of their experience personalized to your specific project. When you share details about your project, goals, and preferences, they can guide you toward the right products, save you time, and help make the selection process as simple and friendly as possible. 

Liberty Hill Mosaic sample board on display outside Delgado Stone's manufacturing facility.

We are fortunate to have relationships with Authorized Dealers across the country who have a full range of stone displays to provide a hands-on experience for their customers. Getting started with online resources and catalogs is a helpful way to narrow down options initially, but the best way to make the best natural stone selection is definitely with the stone in hand. For more natural stone inspiration, including ways you can incorporate it in your next home improvement project, download the Natural Stone Residential Design Guide.