TV Installation Guidelines
Installation Instructions
Part 1 - Sawn Thin Veneer General
Masonry Contractor shall include building into the masonry equipment and materials furnished through other divisions such as lintels, steel framing, shelf angles, anchors, sleeves, thimbles, piping, flashings, and other miscellaneous items, and shall also be required to do the cutting and patching of masonry where necessary to accommodate work of other trades, all as hereinafter specified, shown on plans, or reasonably implied in either, providing a complete job.
Part 2 - Choose a Thin Veneer
View Our Thin Veneer Product Line
Part 3 - Steps for Preparation
MEASURE AREA
FLATS: Find your square footage by multiplying the length of your area. Then measure the square footage of any doors, windows, etc. and subtract their square footage from the total square footage.
CORNERS: Measure the lineal footage of the corners needed. Handy packs hold 10 lineal feet. Please Note: The following corners, because of their larger size, are packaged 8 lineal feet instead of 10 lineal feet: Wisconsin Split Fieldstone, Wisconsin Granite Cobbles, Aqua Grantique™ 7½”, Aqua Grantique™ Tumbled 7½”, Highland Brown™ 7½”, Glacier Bay™ 7½”, Sandy Creek™ 7½”, Carmel Cream™ 7½”, Desert Blend™ 7½” & Wausau Red. Crates hold 100 linear feet of corners
Part 4 - Veneer Stone Execution
BUILDING CODE REQUIREMENTS
Building code requirements vary from area to area. Check with local authorities for building code requirements in your area.
Layout of the Stones
Before applying stone, it is best to layout an area of stone near the work area to help find color, shape and size to design your pattern. This will allow you to layout and rearrange the stone in the most pleasing design.
Because this is a real stone from a quarry you may need to remove debris from some stones; a few pieces may need to be cleaned with water and a brush prior to application.
Mixing the Mortar
Type "N" or pre-blended stone mortar mix. Use one part "N" mortar with two parts mason sand. Mix enough water to achieve a workable consistency.
This mortar will be used for the scratch coat, buttering the stone and to grout the joints.
A liquid bonding agent can be added to the mortar for additional bonding strength. Follow manufacturer's instructions. Colored mortars also improve the installation.
Scratch Coat Application
Install a scratch coat ½" to ¾" thick coat of mortar to the metal lath in a workable area.
Do not apply scratch coat to the entire area. Only work in sections, approximately 5-10 square feet, and so stones can be applied before mortar dries.
Allow the scratch coat to set for 30 minutes.
If you are applying the stone directly to concrete and masonry surfaces you will need to improve the wall's adhesion capabilities. To do this dampen the wall prior to installation or add a liquid bonding agent to the mortar mix.
Apply the Stone
Install corner stones first starting at the bottom and working up. Apply an even, ½" - 1" thick layer of mortar to the back of the stone (a.k.a. "buttering"). Because each stone will be a different thickness you'll need to adjust the amount of mortar applied to the back of each piece.
Grouting & Striking the Joints
After the stones have all been applied, fill the joints with mortar using a grout bag. Conceal any noticeable broken or cut stone edges by covering with mortar.
Wait for the mortar to firm in the joints and then rake out the excess using a wood or metal strike tool. Joints can remain flush or raked for the desired look. Portions of the featured Real Quarried Stone photos depict flush and raked joints. Seal all joint edges by applying pressure on the mortar, causing mortar to move in to the joints.
Note: The mortar joints will smear if they are worked too soon.
Brushing & Cleaning the Area
When the mortar becomes crumbly use a dry bristle brush or a small whisk broom to clean spots of mortar off the stone's face. Note: Loose mortar and mortar spots should not be allowed to dry overnight. Using just a stiff brush and clean water is recommended for cleaning the stonework. A mild solution of granular detergent mixed with water may be used to remove dirt or other stains. Once all cleaning is complete a stone sealer may be applied to enhance the stone's color and give it a shiny appearance. Be sure to test the sealer on an unused stone before applying to make sure you will like the results. Krukowski Stone Company’s materials do not need to be sealed, unless the client would like an enhanced look or a shine.
Krukowski Stone Company is a quarry and fabrication operation. We do not specialize in installation or provide installation. The installer should consult with a professional, experienced mason for detailed questions regarding installation.