Installation

General Information

Real Stone Thin Veneer is packaged for installation with a ½” grout joint. If you’re planning a dry stack application, you’ll need additional stone to achieve full coverage. As with full stone installations, extra material should be factored in to account for:

Application patterns

Waste due to cutting, chipping, or grinding

Desired finished appearance

Weather Considerations

Do not install stone veneer if ambient temperatures are expected to drop below 40°F within 24 hours after installation. For best practices in cold weather, refer to ACI 530-05 Section 1.8C.

Installation Standards

All installations must follow:


  • ACI 530.1 / ASCE 6 / TMS 602: Specifications for Masonry Structures

  • All applicable local building codes

Ensure the structure receiving the veneer meets code requirements.

All installation materials

  • —including sheathing, weather-resistant barriers, metal lath, fasteners, and cement
  • —must also comply with local building codes.

Mortar & Bonding

  • —Mix mortar using Type S Cement per ASTM C270 guidelines
  • —Use a Concrete Bonding Agent as directed by the manufacturer
  • —Apply the scratch coat per the PCA Plaster (Stucco) Manual and local codes

Surface Preparation

Exterior Applications:


  • A weather-resistant barrier must be installed first (as required by code)

  • Flashing should be installed where needed, using non-corrosive material

Concrete or Block Walls:


  • Clean surfaces thoroughly

Painted or sealed surfaces must be treated to remove coatings using:

Sandblasting

Water blasting

Acid etching

Wire brushing

Note: Failure to remove previous coatings may result in poor mortar adhesion.

Cleaning & Maintenance
Never clean thin veneer stone with metal brushes or acid-based cleaners

Professional Consultation
For a successful, long-lasting installation tailored to your specific project, we strongly recommend working with a licensed contractor or structural engineer.

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