Why East Setauket Homeowners Are Choosing Stone Veneer Over Siding to Combat Soaring Energy Bills in 2024

As East Setauket residents face electricity rates averaging 19-24 cents per kWh and utility debt that has skyrocketed from $782 million in 2020 to $1.8 billion in December 2024 across New York State, homeowners are increasingly looking for energy-efficient exterior solutions that provide both immediate savings and long-term value. The choice between stone veneer and traditional siding has become more critical than ever, especially as one in four New York residents pay more than 6% of their annual income on electricity and natural gas.

The Energy Efficiency Advantage of Stone Veneer

When it comes to energy performance, stone veneer offers significant advantages over traditional siding materials. Stone veneer adds a layer of insulation to your home’s exterior, improving energy efficiency by helping regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, and when combined with proper insulation, can reduce energy costs and improve overall comfort.

The secret lies in stone veneer’s thermal mass properties. Stone veneer siding has thermal mass, which means it can absorb, store, and slowly release heat, absorbing heat from the sun during the day and releasing stored heat at night, helping to moderate indoor temperatures. This natural temperature regulation is particularly valuable for East Setauket homeowners, where the average electric bill is $177.05 per month.

In contrast, vinyl siding on its own doesn’t offer much in the way of insulation, and while insulated vinyl siding options can enhance energy efficiency with foam backing, they still may not perform as well as stone veneer when it comes to temperature regulation.

Rising Utility Costs Make Energy Efficiency Critical

The timing couldn’t be more crucial for East Setauket homeowners to consider energy-efficient exterior upgrades. State climate policies accounted for 5 to 9.5 percent of the average household’s electric bill in 2024, adding $10 to $12 per month, while Con Edison had a rate hike proposal pending to raise the cost by 11.4% in 2024.

For local residents, these increases translate to real financial pressure. In hot climates, stone siding acts as a barrier against solar heat gain, helping to keep the interior cool and reducing reliance on air conditioning, while in colder regions, the thermal mass of stone absorbs and retains heat within your house, minimizing the need for excessive heating and cooling and promoting energy efficiency.

Long-Term Value and Return on Investment

Beyond energy savings, stone veneer delivers exceptional financial returns. According to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, manufactured stone veneer recoups 153% of its cost, making it the highest ROI of any siding according to Zonda’s JLC group, with ROI surging from 102.3% in 2023 to 153% in 2024.

This remarkable return on investment is particularly significant when compared to other siding options. Vinyl siding has a recouped value of about 78% to 80% at resale, making stone veneer nearly twice as valuable from an investment perspective.

The durability factor also contributes to long-term value. Manufactured stone veneer lasts a minimum of 25 to 50 years, with stone siding having a lifespan of more than 100 years, compared to vinyl siding which lasts 30-40 years.

Professional Installation and Local Expertise

For East Setauket homeowners considering this upgrade, professional installation is essential for maximizing energy efficiency benefits. Local masonry supply companies like Jos M. Troffa Materials Corporation understand the unique needs of Long Island homeowners. Located right in Setauket, they are a well-known and highly respected member of the local community, having serviced the commercial and residential masonry needs of Nassau and Suffolk County since 1972.

Whether you’re exploring Stone Veneers East Setauket, NY options or need guidance on energy-efficient exterior solutions, working with experienced local suppliers ensures you get the right materials and expert advice for your specific climate and energy needs.

Making the Smart Choice for 2024 and Beyond

As East Setauket faces continued utility cost increases and energy challenges, manufactured stone veneer provides better insulation and energy efficiency, making it the better choice if you want to reduce energy costs in the long term. The combination of immediate energy savings, exceptional ROI, and decades of durability makes stone veneer an intelligent investment for homeowners looking to protect themselves against rising utility costs.