Durability and longevity are a concern among most architects. But even the most seasoned architects sometimes get it wrong. For example, we were recently called to fix a project for a property that had been renovated only a few years ago. The property used limestone – a natural stone that the original builders assumed would bring longevity to the design.
Limestone can be durable in some situations. But it is also prone to becoming weaker in environments that have a lot of rain and freeze/thaw cycles. Less than a decade after its was built, the limestone was essentially disintegrating, and the design was no longer viable.
Types of Natural Stone and How They Respond to Water and Freeze/Thaw Cycles
This brings up an interesting issue. At PW Profiles, we argue that our cement coated architectural EPS is a better choice for your property’s architectural elements than natural stone because, contrary to many beliefs, natural stone is not as long lasting as it may seem. For example:
- Limestone – While commonly chosen for its clean appearance and versatility, limestone is a porous material. In damp climates or regions with heavy rainfall, the stone absorbs water, which then expands during freezing temperatures. Over time, this cycle causes spalling, cracking, and surface erosion that shortens the usable life of the product.
- Sandstone – Another popular natural stone, sandstone often appears strong at installation, but it is composed of loosely compacted grains that break down more quickly than denser materials. Its performance is especially poor in regions with large seasonal temperature swings or excessive moisture exposure.
- Travertine – Known for its unique textures and patterns, travertine also contains natural voids that make it vulnerable to cracking and moisture penetration. These gaps may be filled at the factory, but over time, the filler can degrade, compromising the surface integrity and aesthetics.
- Marble – Frequently considered a high-end material, marble is also one of the least weather-resistant. Its low abrasion resistance and tendency to absorb moisture make it a poor choice for exterior applications in humid or freeze/thaw environments.
- Slate – Slate is often assumed to be among the most durable natural stones, but it has internal cleavage planes that make it susceptible to delamination. When water enters those seams and freezes, the stone can split apart from within.
If someone does want to build with natural stone, it would have to be natural stone that has been taken from similar, if not identical climates – like local stone or stone from very similar climate regions. Even then, there are still risks as the climate changes, and that is all combined with challenges related to cost, installation, and more.
Why Cement Coated Architectural EPS Performs Better
Cement coated architectural EPS offers a more consistent and stable performance profile than these natural stones. It is specifically engineered to handle exposure to water and resist the internal expansion that leads to cracking and decay.
Unlike natural stone, which can vary from quarry to quarry, EPS products are manufactured to deliver predictable results that match both your aesthetic and performance expectations. We have specific numbers on hand that can show this to you, with test results to help you identify why architectural EPS is a good fit for your product.
While natural stone has its place in architecture, it is not always the longest lasting or most durable option. For applications where weather resistance, lightweight design, and long-term performance matter, architectural EPS may be the more appropriate and cost-effective material.
