Everything you need to know about custom-cut natural stone: limestone, marble, sandstone and split-face stone, from free quote to installation. Can’t find your answer? Call us toll-free at 1-888-771-5810.
Pierrexpert is a natural stone supplier specializing in residential and commercial projects. For over 40 years, we have partnered with architects, designers, and contractors to design, custom fabricate, and deliver architectural limestone, marble, sandstone, and split-face stone.
Our head office is in Montreal, with locations in Toronto, New York, and Chicago. We use AutoCAD technology to produce detailed technical drawings and work with quarry partners across Europe and North America. Every piece is custom cut to the exact specifications of each project, whether it is a luxury home stone facade or natural stone cladding for a prestigious commercial building.
Our head office is at 1 Avenue Saint-Charles, Montreal, Quebec (514-932-9266). We also have offices in Toronto (647-715-6442), New York (917-677-3350), and Chicago (312-204-7228). We are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT. For any inquiry, call us toll-free at 1-888-771-5810 or email in**@*********rt.com. Our representatives serve clients across Canada and the United States.
No. Although our head office is in Montreal, with an office in Toronto as well, we actively work with clients throughout Canada and the United States, including New York, New Jersey, Florida, Illinois, and many other states. We have completed natural stone facade projects for residences and high-end commercial buildings across North America. Our representatives are also available for international projects. Contact us for a free quote, regardless of your location.
A quote is completely free. Send us your plans, the area to be covered, or a description of your project, and we will prepare a detailed estimate covering materials, custom fabrication, and delivery. Our engineering team can also provide a preliminary design and free technical drawings for your natural stone project. We also ship stone samples at no charge. Call us at 1-888-771-5810 or email in**@*********rt.com.
Custom fabrication for natural stone typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the deposit is received, depending on the size and complexity of the order. Transportation time varies based on the quarry location: a few days for North American stone, and a few weeks for European limestone and marble. We provide a detailed production and delivery schedule upon order confirmation so you can plan your project timeline accordingly.
We figure that out for you. Provide us with your architectural plans or an estimate of the surface area to be covered, and our engineering team uses AutoCAD to calculate exact quantities, including cuts, angles, and specialty pieces such as door and window surrounds or stone mouldings. If you do not have plans, we can prepare a preliminary design and a free quote based on the information you provide.
It depends on the architectural style, budget, and application. Architectural limestone is the top choice for home facades thanks to its warm cream and beige tones and its ability to be carved into detailed mouldings and surrounds. Marble is ideal for interior staircases, fireplaces, and flooring. Sandstone brings a warm, organic texture to terraces and facades. Split-face stone adds depth and character to feature walls. Our team will guide you toward the best material for your specific project.
We work with quarry partners primarily in Europe (France, Portugal, Spain), recognized worldwide for the quality of their limestone and marble. We also source from quarries in the United States and Canada for sandstone and select limestones. Every stone is chosen for its quality, durability, and appearance. We visit our quarries regularly to maintain our standards and always confirm the exact origin with our clients. Samples sourced directly from the selected quarry are available upon request.
We offer four main categories, all available custom cut. Architectural limestone, in tones ranging from bright white to golden beige, in multiple finishes. Marble, with its unique natural veining, for interior applications. Sandstone, in warm colors and naturally slip-resistant, ideal for terraces and facades. Split-face stone in limestone or sandstone, for textured walls and cladding. We also offer granite for specific applications. Visit our stone selection page or request free samples.
Call us toll-free at 1-888-771-5810, or reach us directly in Montreal (514-932-9266), Toronto (647-715-6442), New York (917-677-3350), or Chicago (312-204-7228). You can also email in**@*********rt.com or fill out the contact form at pierrexpert.com. We typically respond within 24 to 48 business hours. In-person consultations are available by appointment at any of our offices.
Our process unfolds in five steps. First, consultation: we review your vision and plans. Second, estimation: we prepare a quote covering materials, fabrication, and delivery. Third, design: our engineers produce detailed AutoCAD drawings for every stone element. Fourth, fabrication: each piece is custom cut and finished at the quarry. Fifth, delivery and support: we coordinate logistics and remain available throughout installation to ensure every stone fits perfectly.
Yes. Architectural stone facade design is part of our services. Our team produces detailed AutoCAD drawings showing how every piece integrates into the facade: stone cladding, limestone door and window surrounds, cornice mouldings, and ornamental elements. We collaborate closely with project architects and designers, or we can propose our own concepts based on over 40 years of experience in high-end residential and commercial stone facades.
StoneAdvise is an installation technology developed by Pierrexpert in 2003, in collaboration with StoneAdvise in Europe. It uses a specialized adhesive to bond thin stone veneer directly to the wall, significantly reducing installation time and costs compared to traditional masonry. This system has been successfully applied on over 50 projects over the past two decades. Pierrexpert received an award for excellence in construction that same year for a project exceeding 4,000 sq. ft.
Absolutely. We provide a full-service offering to industry professionals: technical consultation, detailed AutoCAD drawings, material selection guidance, and custom fabrication of complex pieces such as ornamental stone mouldings, limestone cornices, carved surrounds, and architectural stone panels. For contractors, we deliver numbered stones with a clear installation layout, ready to install. We are a trusted natural stone supplier for architects in Montreal, Toronto, New York, and Chicago, and a natural stone fabricator for architects and designers across North America.
Pierrexpert is primarily a natural stone supplier and custom fabricator. Every piece is cut, numbered, and accompanied by a detailed installation layout to facilitate the installer’s work. We also offer our StoneAdvise gluing system for thin stone veneer cladding, and we can recommend qualified installers in your area. Our team remains available throughout the installation phase to answer any technical questions.
Our expertise lies in high-end projects, but we supply natural stone for all types of residential and commercial buildings. On the residential side, we work on estate homes as well as single-family homes looking for exterior stone cladding or an interior feature wall. On the commercial side, we supply architectural stone for office buildings, hotels, institutional spaces, and multi-residential projects. Thin stone veneer makes natural stone accessible across a wider range of budgets.
Yes. We supply natural stone for both new construction and existing buildings in need of a facade refresh. Thin stone veneer, starting at 3/4 inch thickness, is often the ideal solution for renovations since it is light enough that most existing wall structures can support it without major reinforcement. A natural stone cladding on an existing facade completely transforms a property’s appearance and increases its value.
Transportation costs vary based on order quantity and the distance between the quarry and your location. These costs are always included in our overall estimate, so there are no surprises. We work with carriers specialized in natural stone handling to ensure safe delivery, whether it is transatlantic shipping for European stone or trucking for deliveries across North America.
The client has 48 hours from the delivery date to inspect the stone and report any damage or missing material. Check every crate upon arrival, take photos, and note any issues on the delivery slip. If pieces are broken or missing, contact us immediately and we will arrange for replacements. Pierrexpert is not responsible for damage occurring after unloading by the client.
Yes, we ship natural stone samples free of charge. It is a step we strongly recommend because photos simply do not do justice to the true color, texture, and veining of natural stone. Since stone is a product of nature, colors can vary from one batch to another. To order samples, visit our samples page at pierrexpert.com, call us, or email us specifying the stone types and finishes you are interested in.
Architectural limestone is a natural sedimentary stone used for thousands of years in some of the world’s most prestigious buildings. It cuts with great precision, making it ideal for cladding panels, door and window surrounds, cornice mouldings, and detailed ornamental elements. Its natural color palette, ranging from bright white to warm golden beige, complements every architectural style, from classic to contemporary. It is the material of choice for luxury home stone facades and custom architectural projects throughout Canada and the United States.
Several finishes dramatically change the look of limestone. Honed offers a smooth, matte surface and is the most popular finish for exterior facades. Polished gives a slightly glossy result, most often used indoors. Bush-hammered creates a rough, slip-resistant texture ideal for outdoor steps. Sandblasted produces a natural, aged look. Sawn gives a lightly striated, more contemporary surface. Brushed and antiqued finishes are also available. Pierrexpert provides samples of each finish to help you make the right choice for your project.
Yes, provided the right variety is selected. Freeze-thaw resistance depends on the limestone’s porosity and density: a dense, low-porosity limestone absorbs less water and holds up far better through freeze-thaw cycles. At Pierrexpert, we select limestones tested for harsh climates such as Montreal and Toronto. We provide technical data sheets and freeze-thaw test results for every variety we carry. Proper drainage behind the cladding, such as our StoneAdvise ventilated facade system, along with installation that meets local building codes, maximizes the long-term durability of limestone in cold climates.
Maintenance is straightforward. Clean once every 3 to 5 years using water and a mild, non-acidic cleaner formulated for natural stone. Stay on top of applying a water-repellent sealer every 3 to 5 years to protect against water absorption, discoloration, and staining. Never use acidic products such as vinegar or bathroom cleaners, as they damage limestone, and avoid applying de-icing salt directly on the stone. For stubborn stains, specialized stone poultices are highly effective. With minimal but consistent upkeep, a natural limestone facade retains its appearance for generations.
Thin stone veneer (3/4 in. to 1.5 in.) is the most popular option: lighter, more cost-effective, and delivering the same appearance as traditional full-bed masonry. For mechanically anchored cladding on commercial and institutional projects, 2 to 3 inches is standard. Architectural elements such as door and window surrounds and cornice mouldings vary in thickness depending on the profile of each piece. Our engineering team recommends the right thickness based on your application, budget, and structural requirements.
Natural limestone is formed over millions of years and every piece is unique. Manufactured stone is factory-made using cement and pigments to imitate the look of real stone. The difference is visible: artificial stone has repetitive patterns and its colors fade under UV exposure. Quality limestone lasts centuries, while manufactured stone deteriorates after 15 to 20 years. For luxury residences and high-end projects, natural stone is the standard. It also adds more to a property’s resale value than any manufactured alternative.
Limestone is an excellent interior material for flooring, fireplaces, staircases, and feature walls. With a honed or polished finish, it creates a sophisticated atmosphere in the entry halls and living rooms of high-end residences. It is also compatible with in-floor radiant heating. For fireplaces, limestone can be carved into ornate mouldings or kept clean and contemporary. In wet areas such as showers and kitchen countertops, a proper sealant and regular maintenance are recommended due to its natural porosity.
Limestone stands the test of time. From Greek temples to European cathedrals, through pyramids and castles, to North American luxury estates, it has always been the material of choice for landmark buildings. Its natural color palette suits every architectural style. It can be cut into simple, contemporary cladding panels or carved into ornamental mouldings and detailed door and window surrounds. Unlike synthetic materials that degrade over time, limestone ages gracefully and develops a patina that adds character with each passing decade. It is a lasting investment, not an expense.
Sandstone is a natural sedimentary stone composed primarily of quartz and sand grains. Its naturally textured, slip-resistant surface, warm color palette (sand, brown, ochre, grey), and resistance to weathering make it a very versatile material. Sandstone is available custom cut and accepts a variety of finishes including honed, brushed, sandblasted, and split-face. At Pierrexpert, we are a trusted sandstone supplier offering custom-cut sandstone for high-end residential and commercial facade cladding, terrace paving, and exterior landscaping projects.
Sandstone excels in several applications: terraces and patios (naturally slip-resistant surface), pool surrounds (does not absorb heat the way concrete does), exterior facades (distinctive, warm aesthetic), driveways and entry paths (wear-resistant), and interior feature walls. For commercial projects, sandstone cladding is used on institutional buildings, hotels, and office spaces. Custom-cut sandstone adapts to any format, from thin veneer panels to thick pavers, and suits both luxury residences and high-end commercial projects equally well.
Limestone offers a smoother look with more character from its natural sediment and fossil patterns, a more refined finish in cream and beige tones, ideal for detailed mouldings and carved surrounds. Sandstone has a more granular texture, warmer colors, and a more organic, natural feel. Limestone is easier to carve into fine architectural details. Sandstone is more abrasion-resistant and generally absorbs less water. The choice comes down to the style you are after: classic and formal for limestone, warm and natural for sandstone. Some high-end projects combine both for striking visual contrast.
Clean with warm water and a neutral-pH soap. For terraces, cleaning in spring and fall is typically sufficient. Apply a water-repellent sealer every 3 to 5 years to prevent water absorption, staining, and moss growth. Avoid high-pressure washing at close range, acidic products, and de-icing salt. For oil or grease stains, an absorbent poultice is effective. Sandstone is a robust material that requires very little maintenance to stay beautiful for decades.
Sandstone is one of the best natural stones for these applications. Its naturally slip-resistant surface provides good traction even when wet, which is essential for safety around a pool. It does not absorb as much heat as concrete, so it stays comfortable underfoot on hot summer days. Its warm, earthy tones create a relaxing atmosphere that integrates beautifully with landscaping. We recommend a brushed or sandblasted finish to maximize traction.
Split-face stone is natural stone whose visible surface has been obtained by mechanically splitting a block rather than sawing it. The result is a raw, textured surface that creates striking shadow play. It is used for exterior facade cladding, interior feature walls (behind fireplaces, in entry halls), decorative columns, and commercial spaces. Available in limestone and sandstone, Pierrexpert is a split-face stone cladding supplier offering various formats for high-end residential and commercial projects.
Split-face stone brings texture, depth, and a bold, organic character. The shadows created by its irregular surface add dimension and make every facade unique. Smooth stone offers a more refined and contemporary look, preferred for fine architectural details such as mouldings and surrounds. A popular choice in high-end projects is to combine both: smooth stone for mouldings and surrounds, split-face for the main cladding surface. This contrast creates a striking effect on luxury home stone facades.
Yes, both. Outdoors, split-face stone cladding for facades is popular for luxury residences and commercial buildings seeking a distinctive look. It holds up well to weathering when properly installed. Indoors, it is highly sought after for feature walls, particularly behind fireplaces, in living rooms, and in entry halls. For interior applications, we typically use thin veneer (minimum 1.5 in.) to minimize wall load. The visual result is identical to full-thickness stone.
In split-face limestone: bright white, beige, ivory, light grey, and medium grey. These elegant, neutral tones complement any architectural style. In split-face sandstone: sand, chamois, golden brown, rust, and rose-tinged tones, warmer and more earthy. Multiple colors can also be blended within a single project for a natural mosaic effect. Since it is a natural product, each piece has subtle variations that give it its authentic character. We recommend ordering free samples to see the colors in person.
Split-face refers to the surface finish: a face that has been split to create a raw, textured look. Stacked stone refers to the laying pattern: horizontal courses stacked with thin or nearly invisible joints. The two are commonly combined: a stacked stone wall using split-face pieces is the most popular option for luxury home stone facades and feature walls. It produces a textured, ordered, and contemporary result. Both options are available from Pierrexpert in a range of formats and thicknesses.
No, marble is generally not recommended for exterior facades in cold climates such as Canada’s. Its crystalline structure makes it sensitive to freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to crumbling, cracking, and loss of polish over time. For exterior projects in northern climates, we recommend denser, less porous stones such as limestone or granite, which better withstand temperature fluctuations. Marble remains, however, an exceptional choice for interior applications, where its spectacular veining brings an unmatched touch of luxury to any high-end residence or commercial establishment.
Marble is the material of choice for fireplaces and mantels (a spectacular focal point), staircases (polished marble treads paired with wrought iron), entry hall and living room flooring (the polished finish reflects light and visually enlarges spaces), and luxury bathrooms (shower walls, floors, countertops). Every marble piece is unique thanks to its natural veining. Pierrexpert offers custom-cut marble to your exact specifications for high-end residential and commercial projects.
Marble is sensitive to acids: avoid vinegar, lemon juice, and commercial cleaners. Use only warm water and a neutral-pH soap formulated for natural stone. Apply a penetrating sealant, especially on countertops and surfaces frequently exposed to liquids. Reapply annually for countertops and every 2 to 3 years for floors and walls. Wipe up spills immediately. Use coasters and trivets on countertop surfaces. Many homeowners appreciate the patina marble develops over time, which adds to the natural character of the stone.
Marble is limestone that has been transformed by heat and pressure over millions of years. The most visible difference is the veining: marble has pronounced, contrasting veins, while limestone has a more uniform, subtle grain. Marble is harder, polishes to a mirror finish, and is more abrasion-resistant. For exterior facades, limestone is generally preferred for its more architectural and understated appearance. For high-end interior applications such as fireplaces, staircases, and flooring, marble is often the first choice thanks to its spectacular natural veining.
Brick is a manufactured product made from fired clay, available in a limited range of sizes and colors. Natural stone is a unique material quarried from the earth, offering a far wider variety of textures, colors, and finishes. Natural stone projects a more premium image than brick and adds more to a property’s resale value. It also ages more gracefully. The initial cost is higher, but thin stone veneer has significantly narrowed that gap in recent years. For luxury residences, natural stone is the dominant choice.
Cost varies based on the type of stone, project complexity (simple cladding vs. carved mouldings and surrounds), quantity, thickness, and delivery location. Thin stone veneer is significantly less expensive than full-bed masonry, both in materials and installation. Since every order is custom, the best way to get a realistic price is to request a free quote. We provide a detailed, transparent estimate that covers materials, custom fabrication, and delivery. Call 1-888-771-5810 or email in**@*********rt.com.
Yes, and it is a popular design approach for luxury home facades and high-end commercial buildings. Common combinations include stone and wood, stone and stucco, stone with metal or glass, and stone and brick. Different stone types can also be paired together: honed limestone as the main facade with split-face accents, or sandstone cladding with carved limestone door and window surrounds. Our design team helps you plan the transitions between materials for a cohesive and refined result.
Start with a neutral-pH stone cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone. If that is not enough, use a poultice: an absorbent paste applied over the stain for several hours that draws it out of the stone. The type of poultice depends on the stain (organic, oil-based, biological). In extreme cases, professional resurfacing or piece replacement may be required. The best protection is prevention: apply a water-repellent sealer at installation and reapply it regularly. Our team can advise on the right products for your specific stone type.
Start with the architectural style: cream and beige tones for classic designs, grey and white for contemporary, warm tones for rustic. Consider the surroundings (neighboring buildings, vegetation, natural light) and the other materials in your project (roofing, windows, landscaping). Order samples and observe them at different times of day, directly on your project site. Natural stone has color variations from piece to piece: that is what makes it authentic. Review multiple samples to make sure those variations suit your vision.
The laying pattern has a significant impact on the final appearance. Coursed ashlar (regular horizontal rows) offers a classic, orderly look. Staggered courses add subtle movement. Random ashlar gives a natural, relaxed feel. The stacked pattern, with thin or invisible joints, creates a very elegant contemporary effect that is particularly popular for luxury residences and high-end commercial facades. Our team can produce technical drawings showing each pattern applied to your specific facade so you can visualize the result before committing.
Natural stone is one of the most environmentally responsible building materials available. It requires no high-temperature kiln firing and no synthetic resins. Its exceptional durability (lasting generations, even centuries) greatly reduces long-term environmental impact compared to synthetic materials that need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years. Stone is fully recyclable and acts as a natural thermal regulator, contributing to a building’s energy efficiency. The primary environmental footprint is transportation, which is more than offset by the material’s longevity.
Stone door and window surrounds frame the openings of a facade and are often what separates an ordinary exterior from a truly exceptional one. They add depth, dimension, and refinement to every opening. Limestone surrounds are the most popular choice because limestone carves cleanly into detailed profiles, from clean and minimal to richly ornamental. They also protect the edges of openings from weathering. Pierrexpert designs custom surrounds using AutoCAD and fabricates them with precision for luxury residences and high-end commercial projects across Canada and the United States.
Get a free quote and complimentary stone samples. Our engineering team supports you from design to delivery, across Canada and the United States.
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