"HOW TO" Install Thin Stone Veneer

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Step 1.) Natural Thin Stone Veneer may be applied over any masonry surface, concrete block, brick, cement, etc.  Painted surfaces must be sandblasted, or otherwise stripped of paint.  If it is difficult to remove paint or if surface is frame construction , nail 18-guage metal lathe to wall securely 6" on center.  If exterior apply vapor barrier first, then metal lathe.  (See Fig. 1 & 2)

  
Fig. 1 - Vapor Barrier (Tar Paper)                                      Fig. 2 - Metal Lathe

Step 2.) Apply scratch coat (2 parts washed sand to 1 part Portland cement, or use Type-S and follow manufacturers instructions) to lath.  Make certain lathe is covered completely with a thin coat (1/2" - 3/4" thick).  Use a metal scraper or small scrap of lath to lightly rake horizontal grooves in the scratch coat.  Allow scratch coat to set up or cure.  (See Fig. 3 & 4)

 
Fig. 3 - Apply cement scratch coat                                     Fig. 4 - Rake surface

Step 3.) Now that you have a masonry surface, the Thin Veneer may be applied using the following steps:

a.) Mix rich mortar (2 parts washed sand to 1 part Portland cement, or Type S) to a creamy consistency similar to whipped potatoes.  Mix a minimum of 5 minutes.

b.) Determine if stone will be laid out on the ground to the desired fit prior to installation, or if trimming is required to complete finished application. (See Fig. 5)

c.) Make certain surface of stone and wall is free of dirt, sand, or loose particles.  When necessary, wash stone completely.  If surface is dry, dampen first with a masonry brush, but do not saturate.  This prevents the wall from pulling moisture from the mortar, allowing it to both set up naturally and with a better stronger bond.  For cleaner installation, begin applying stone at the top of the wall and work towards the bottom.

d.) Trowel rich mortar onto wall approx. 1/2" thick.

e.) Take clean stone and slightly dampen the back side.  This frees any dust and again prevents moisture loss from mortar.

f.) Apply thin coat of rich mortar onto back side of stone.  This fills in pits and rises in stone and creates a stronger bond with the wall. (See Fig. 6)

 
Fig 5. - Trim, clean, and prepare surface and stone           Fig 6. - Apply mortar to wall and stone

g.) Press stone into mortar, rotating slightly, forcing some of the mortar to squeeze out freely.  Any mortar forced out beyond the finished joint or on the stone surface itself must be removed with trowel, joint tool, or brush before the mortar is allowed to set up.  Narrow joints will provide a nicer appearance.  (See Fig. 7 & 8)

 
Fig. 7. - Press stone into mortar                                        Fig. 8 - Clean off excess mortar, keep the joints tight

h.) Use a grout bag to fill all joints (or use a trowel).  As the mortar stiffens, tool to the desired depth and be sure to brush off all excess mortar.  Be sure not to allow any mortar to harden on the face of any stone.  This will aid in the cleanup process.

HOW TO CLEAN - Excess dirt and film may be removed using clean water and a stiff brush.  It is important not to allow mortar to dry on the face of the stone.  Remove it prior to it hardening.

 HOW TO SEAL - Stone may be sealed with a good quality penetrating sealer only after thoroughly curing which usually takes 4 weeks on inside work.  Follow the manufacturers directions on the application of sealer.  Sealed stone may be easier to clean than unsealed stone and certain sealers also repel stains.  However, sealers must be periodically reapplied , especially on exterior applications, and could alter the natural coloring of the stone.

During your Thin Stone Veneer installation, if you have any problems or questions, ask your dealer or call us directly.  We will always do our best to help you in any way we can.  Thank you for making the Natural choice for your adhered Thin Veneer.