Rock face and split face are both terms used to describe the finishes on stone or concrete products, particularly in applications like steps, walls, and veneers. The primary difference lies in how the texture is achieved.
Here's a breakdown:
Key Differences
| Feature | Rock Face | Split Face |
|---|---|---|
| Texture Creation | Trimmed by hand with a hammer and chisel after being split larger than needed. | Created using a hydraulic splitter. |
| Appearance | Bold and rocky edges, more pronounced and irregular. | Rough texture, more uniform than rock face. |
| Best Used For | Creating a more rustic and rugged aesthetic. | Blending well with natural wall stone and flagging. |
Rock Face Explained
Rock face is characterized by its rugged and irregular appearance. The process involves:
- Splitting the stone or concrete larger than the desired final size.
- Using a hammer and chisel to manually trim the edges.
This manual trimming results in a bolder, more pronounced texture, making it suitable for projects where a rustic and natural look is desired.
Split Face Explained
Split face offers a rough but generally more uniform texture. It is produced by:
- Using a hydraulic splitter to create a natural fractured surface.
This process creates a less defined texture compared to rock face and is a good option for blending with natural elements in landscaping or construction. According to the reference, split face "blends well with natural wallstone and flagging" (09-Aug-2017).
In summary, while both finishes provide a textured surface, rock face offers a bolder, more rustic look achieved through hand-trimming, while split face provides a more uniform, naturally fractured texture created by hydraulic splitting.
