Choose Between Natural Stone ACP Sheet vs Actual Stone

When choosing materials for your building projects, both Natural Stone Aluminum Composite Panel (ACP) and Actual Stone provide unique benefits. Knowing their differences can help you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements and preferences.

Let us learn more about them in the blog below.

 Natural Stone vs Actual Stone: Which One Should You Opt For 

Selecting between Natural Stone ACP panel and Actual Stone comes down to balancing factors such as budget, aesthetic goals, and the specific requirements of your project. Here are some of the aspects that you should consider.

1. Weight and Installation 

● Natural Stone ACP 

- Lightweight: Natural Stone ACP sheets are significantly lighter than actual stone. This lightweight nature makes them easier to handle during transportation and installation.

- Easy to Install: Due to their lighter weight, Natural Stone ACP panels require less structural support, which can reduce both installation time and labour costs. The installation process is typically quicker and less labour-intensive.

● Actual Stone 

- Heavy: Actual stone is inherently heavy, which requires substantial structural support. This added weight can increase the overall cost and complexity of the project.

- Installation Requirements: It requires skilled artisans who are experienced in handling and fitting stone, leading to longer installation times and higher labour costs.

2. Cost & Maintenance 

● Natural Stone ACP 

- Cost-Effective: Natural Stone ACP sheets are generally more affordable than actual stone due to lower material costs and reduced installation expenses. Its lightweight nature also lowers transportation costs.

- Maintenance Requirements: Over time, Natural Stone ACP panels incur lower maintenance costs. This durability translates into fewer repairs and less frequent upkeep.

● Actual Stone 

- Expensive: Actual stone comes with a higher initial cost for both the material and the installation.

- Maintenance Requirements: Maintaining actual stone can be costly. Regular sealing is necessary to protect the stone from staining and weather damage, and repairs can be frequent due to potential cracking or chipping.

3. Durability 

● Natural Stone ACP 

- Engineered Durability: Natural Stone ACP panels are engineered to be highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, UV rays and corrosion. This ensures that they maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. These panels are easy to clean and require minimal upkeep.

● Actual Stone 

- Naturally Durability: Actual stone is naturally durable and has a long lifespan. However, if not properly maintained, it can be prone to cracking, chipping and staining. Regular maintenance is crucial for actual stone to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. 

4. Aesthetics 

● Natural Stone ACP 

- Versatile: Natural Stone ACP panels are available in a wide range of finishes and colours, mimicking the look of various types of natural stone. This versatility makes them suitable for a variety of design styles and applications.

- Consistency: These panels offer a uniform appearance, ensuring a cohesive and consistent look across the entire project. 

● Actual Stone 

- Authentic: Actual stone provides a natural, unique look with inherent variations in colour, texture and pattern. These natural characteristics add character and charm to any project.

- Timeless Appeal: The beauty and elegance of actual stone are timeless. It has been used in architecture for centuries and continues to be valued for its natural aesthetics and classic appeal.

5. Environmental Impact 

● Natural Stone ACP 

- Sustainable: Natural Stone ACP panels use less raw material than actual stone, reducing the environmental impact associated with extraction and transportation. This makes them a more sustainable choice for construction.

- Recyclable: The aluminium components of ACP sheets are recyclable, contributing to eco-friendly building practices and reducing waste.

● Actual Stone 

- Natural Material: Stone is a natural material that comes from the earth. However, quarrying and transporting stone can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat disruption and carbon emissions.

- Longevity: Despite the environmental costs of extraction, the long lifespan of actual stone can offset some of these concerns if the stone is properly maintained and used in durable construction.

 Conclusion 

Are you ready to transform your space? Discover the perfect Aluminium Composite Panel for your project with Viva. 

Contact Viva ACP today to learn more and take the first step towards creating your dream space!