Incorporate stone into your home exterior for a rustic, earthy touch. Stone siding is one way to go, but there are other cheaper ways to use stone for the exterior of your home. Although stone is a versatile material, as a siding it is particularly appropriate for wood homes or houses with lush landscaping as well as historic homes.

Stone Siding
Stone siding is the most obvious way to incorporate stone into your home exterior. Natural stone is durable and attractive although it is also quite expensive. Limestone, sandstone and granite are common options. Stone veneer siding, also known as faux stone siding, is a more affordable option that still provides the stone appearance. According to CalFinder, stone veneer is made of cement and other natural ingredients that are mixed and molded to look just like stone. The average cost is $11 to $15 per square foot, as of September 2010, which is still much higher than other siding options such as vinyl.

Stone Driveway
For a smaller stone exterior addition, pave your driveway with stone. As noted at Driveway Tips, stone driveways are common in rural settings and make a good choice for long driveways. The average cost is $1 to $4 per square foot. Although a stone driveway is aesthetically appealing, it does require frequent maintenance and upkeep since stones can shift easily. Line the driveway to help keep stones in place.

Stone Chimney
A stone chimney is a subtle way to incorporate stone into a home exterior. As noted at Moonstone Masonry, a stone chimney helps to visually anchor the house while adding very attractive color and textures. Stone chimneys are commonly used for log cabins but also look attractive paired with other siding options. You can either use natural stone or a stone veneer for your chimney. In addition to the home exterior, a stone chimney also incorporates stone into the interior since it is typically attached to a stone fireplace.