The Link – February, 2010

Facing a Sustainable Future With StoneRox

Recent studies indicate that the ‘green’ residential building market in North America has seen encouraging growth in the last year and is expected to double by 2012. This trend proves to be a great opportunity for manufacturers who see the benefit in being environmentally friendly and for consumers and homeowners who continually search for green and sustainable products when renovating or building a new home.

Many building products fall within the sustainable category, however, some products exceed others in addressing ‘green’ issues.  Over the years, concrete products have been of keen interest among designers due to their versatility, durability and distinct architectural appeal. More importantly, they have proven to be sound environmental solutions for many architects, builders and homeowners looking to adapt to new concerns in sustainable design.

Thin facing stone is a creative alternative to standard concrete building products as it offers the appearance of natural stone without the added costs. Its durability and long life cycle results in lower repair and maintenance requirements as well as overall waste reduction and conservation of resources over the life of a building. Its user-friendly and lightweight properties reduce installation and shipping costs for overall project savings to the end user.  Its adaptability makes it flexible enough for use both indoors and out. The product is fire-resistant and non-combustible and provides a barrier against the spread of fire.  It also preserves indoor air quality as it doesn’t require additional coatings and prevents toxic mould growth.

From a design standpoint, the many profiles and colour blends available in thin facing stone allows for custom designs and inspire homeowners, designers, builders and architects alike to create dramatic looks with lower environmental impacts.

One such company, StoneRox, a Canadian manufacturer of lightweight facing stone in Stouffville, ON, has, as part of its business plan, developed a more sustainable product line in keeping with today’s green vision. Its goal has been to produce quality products that reflect the Canadian culture and landscape and to provide distinct opportunities for local distributors and regional economic development while providing sustainable design solutions. Moreover, its local facilities help reduce the overall carbon footprint resulting from transportation emissions.

As the demand for greener products continues to increase, companies like StoneRox will continually develop products that are more ecological, cost-effective and attractive to meet the goal of building sustainable homes more consistently and to reduce the cost living for homeowners.

About StoneRox

StoneRox is a Canadian Made Lightweight Facing Stone Product manufactured to exceed CSA Standards and to meet the specific needs of the marketplace. Used in residential and commercial settings, this user-friendly and maintenance free product is perfect for all applications including home renovations, new construction and landscape features. Dramatic interior finishes can also be achieved with this natural looking product to create custom and innovative designs. StoneRox offers seven distinct styles of handcrafted stone with the finest textures and profiles. Colour ranges are produced in natural blended earth tones and can be mixed for a truly unique and authentic look. For more design ideas,

visit www.stonerox.ca