It is no mistake that many high-end custom homes choose to use Cantera stone elements throughout their design and décor.  Cantera is a natural, sedimentary stone that comes from Mexico.  Cantera is formed as volcanic ash and dust settles into Mexican riverbeds and, over time, compresses to form a stone. Because of the way it is formed, Cantera is incredibly unique so the Cantera you get will be very different from the Cantera your neighbor gets.  The texture of Cantera is very malleable which lends itself to being carved and manipulated for architectural stone elements such as fountains, fireplaces, columns, planters, balustrades, pottery, as flooring in almost any room of the home, and more into their home’s design.Below are three reasons that homeowners should implement Cantera stone elements

1. Durability
   • Because Cantera stone is naturally formed over time, it is incredibly durable and weather resistant. Though it is incredibly durable, it weighs significantly less than marble or granite, making it far easier to use.  Additionally, Cantera has an exceptionally high strength – it has a high crushing and tensile strength that makes it ideal for use because it stand up to the elements and look great doing so.
2. Timeless Appeal
   • Cantera has a natural, earthy appeal that is simply timeless. Because it is so durable, it can stand test of time and maintain its beautiful appearance year after year.   Further, the texture and porousness of Cantera can even make it look like sandstone or marble.  Wherever you use Cantera, you know that it will lend a look of timeless elegance, naturally uplifting any décor around it.  In some applications of Cantera, it is ideal to seal it for protection from staining.  When well-cared for, Cantera architectural stone elements are truly timeless – they will last a lifetime.
3. Color Options
   • As mentioned above, Cantera is naturally formed in riverbeds and know two pieces of Cantera will be identical. Cantera is available in a wide range of colors and textures which beautifully accentuates any home’s existing décor or architectural style.  The possibilities of color with Cantera are endless because of the minerals it contains but it is typically a light brown, tan or red hue.  However, Cantera is available in white, pink, grey, green, beige, tan, brown, orange, red and black.  Additionally, because of the materials that mix to form Cantera, it is available in a variety of patterns and often looks speckled.

Many homeowners drive around their neighborhood or neighborhoods nearby and see homes with beautiful stone accents or a full stone exterior and feel envious.  Even if your existing home does not have stone accents, that does not mean it is too late!  You can elevate the appearance of your home’s exterior while also increasing your home’s value by adding a limestone veneer.  Lueders limestone veneer is limestone that has been quarried from the Lueders Basin in Texas.   To install a full-thickness stone exterior would be exceptionally difficult and heavy but a thin Lueders veneer is exceptionally durable but far easier to accomplish.  Lueders veneer weighs approximately 75% less than full-thickness stone so the difference is significant.  Additionally, limestone veneer is considerably less expensive than full-thickness stone so it is far more economical.

It is important to note that Lueders veneer is exceptionally beautiful and versatile.  It is durable enough for outdoor use but can also be used indoors.  There is a distinct reason that high-end custom homes are choosing Lueders thin veneer for their homes, it is lightweight and durable – it will stand the test of time and weather.  Because it is denser, it does not absorb much water and can be used in climates with significant swings in temperature.   When you use natural stone veneer, you are opting for a truly low maintenance option because it is derived from the natural elements.

To continue, Lueders limestone veneer is available in a wide range of colors that include chocolate, gray, brown, blue and caramel so there is certain to be a color to coordinate with your architectural design aesthetic.  Whether you have a traditional home, rustic home, or modern home, we have limestone veneer to suit your needs.  And, at Architectural Home Elements can manufacture any cut or pattern that you need including regular chop or a sawn cut pattern.  For interior use, we carry a selection of thin Lueders veneer that is lightweight and provides the perfect “pop” to your home’s décor.  Use limestone veneer to accentuate columns, niches, or other architectural design elements.  Or, create an accent wall that is sure to draw the eye and add significant depth and warmth with limestone veneer.  Allow us to show you the variety of colors and styles available in Lueders thin veneer, as well as the variety of applications in which it can be used to add value to your home and add significant beauty.