On an exterior surface, a weather resistant barrier of 15 lb felt or better must be applied before installing metal lath. The barrier should be applied horizontally with the top layer overlapping the lower layer not less than 4 inches. If vertical joints occur, the barrier should be lapped a minimum of 6 inches. Cover entire surface area with a 2.5 lb. diamond wire mesh. Exterior applications require a galvanized metal lath. Metal lath should be attached using galvanized nails or staples overlapping sides by not less than 1/2” on sides and no less than 1” on ends. Nails or staples should be 6” on center vertically and 16” on center horizontally into studs a minimum of 1”. Metal lath should be kept flat against the surface and the pockets of the mesh pointing upwards.

No surface preparation is necessary if the masonry surface (brick, block, concrete) is clean. Painted, sealed or treated surfaces must be cleaned by sandblasting down to the original surface or covered with metal lath using corrosion resistant concrete nails.

Surface preparation is the same as for wood related preparation except use self tapping screws on the metal lath that penetrates a minimum of 3/8” beyond the inside surface.

Use Type N or Type S mortar mix for installation. Follow mixing instructions on bag to blend to a creamy paste. Apply a thin coat of mortar to completely cover the metal lath or masonry surface. Scratch the surface with a rake or masonry tool to prevent having a smooth surface. The coating will provide a firm bonding surface for the stone veneer. Some local codes require the scratch coat dry for 48 hours before applying the stone. Check the local building codes prior to installation.

Depending on the job and type of stone, installation may begin at the top or bottom of the wall. Starting at the top will aid in keeping the stone clean. If applicable, corners should be installed first alternating short and long legs. The back of the stone should be brushed to remove dust prior to applying mortar. Apply a 1/2” thick layer of mortar to the back of the stone and press the stone firmly against the substrate using a wiggling action to insure a good bond. The mortar should squeeze out around the edges of the stone. Remove any excess mortar with a trowel and fill any voids on the stone’s exposed edges. A chalk line should be used to ensure the installation is level. Stagger the joint lines both horizontally and vertically for a finished appearance. If needed, stones may be cut or shaped with a diamond or carbide blade, mason’s trowel, hatchet or nippers. If mortar should get on the stone face, wait until it dries and clean with a stiff brush. NEVER USE WIRE BRUSHES, HARSH CLEANSERS OR ACID TO CLEAN THE STONE. Do not use a sponge to wipe or remove the mortar as it may stain the surface of the stone.

If a grout line is employed in the laying of the stone, typically one half (1/2) inch spacing between the stones, a grout bag is used to fill in the joints. Fill the grout bag with the mortar mixture, creamy paste desired, and squeeze the small end into the joint area to be filled. Try to avoid getting grout on the face of the stone. If this occurs, allow to dry and brush off with a small broom.

Suncrest Stone veneer flats and corners are packaged in corrugated containers with a designated square footage per container. Each crate (48” X 40”) contains eight individual boxes. Square footage per box is determined by the profile. Outside corners are packaged by the linear foot. Individual boxes allow for easier handling on the jobsite. Crates stored outside should be protected by a waterproof cover to prevent deterioration of the corrugated containers. Shipments of product in less than skid lots may carry an additional charge for packaging.

Suncrest Stone, Inc. offers a 25 year limited warranty on all its products when installed according to manufacturer’s instructions and on structures conforming to local building codes. Warranty is limited to the original purchaser. Warranty is limited to repair or replacement of materials that are defective and does not include any labor charges.

Structure settlement, discoloration due to airborne contaminants or chemicals, normal weathering or oxidation is not covered by this warranty.