A Viable Alternative to Natural Stone

Cast stone has been used in Britain since Georgian times as an alternative to carved natural stone, and in particular natural stone dressings, which it can stand alongside in appearance and performance but cast stone is more readily available and normally costs significantly less.

It is regularly used for extension, refurbishment and conservation work, including areas of sensitive planning constraints or where natural stone is a predominant material. Its use in restoration and conservation includes the replacement or repair of natural stonework damaged by exposure or neglect.

In many ways, cast stone is far better than natural stone. It can beat natural stone on strength, moisture penetration, colour and textural consistency and stratification is never a problem. Government sponsored research has shown that cast stone weathers like natural stone and it looks much the same.

All types of architectural stone dressings can be produced – large, small and structurally reinforced – and cast stone’s ability to form complex shapes makes it ideal for ornate dressings and detailing. Many manufacturers have built up big ‘libraries’ of moulds of standard architectural stone details and ornamental features, so designers seldom have to reinvent the wheel the get the look they want.

And since cast stone details are based on centuries-tested stone details, they work first time.

Cast stone can also take the form of ashlar masonry. These days natural stone is too expensive for solid masonry but it is simple and economical to use cast stone ashlar blockwork – which not only satisfies the truth to construction architectural argument but will perform in terms of bearing strength and weather in the same way as natural stone.

Window surrounds, keystones, heads and cills

Columns and entablatures, porticos, pilasters, cornices and pavilions

Balustrading, parapet screening, plaques, brackets, corbels

Steps, coping, piers, spheres, finials

Internal door surrounds and chimney pieces

Planters, statuary, obelisks, pedestals and pavilions

All data on this website is for information only and is to the best of our knowledge current and correct. UKCSA presents this information without guarantee and cannot be held liable for any consequential claims. UKCSA members will be able to advise you in more detail on all aspects of cast stone specific to their products and supply.