Stone Veneer Fitting Instructions

Step 1 - Pre Application

• Before applying, lay out a small area of stone in front of your project area to give you an idea of the laying pattern on your wall.
• Arrange the pieces so that they fit complimentary next to one another. It is useful to take photographs at this stage to refer back to and use a numbered sequence left to right.
• Try to avoid fitting similar size pieces together in the one area.
• First, coat the wall with LBS adhesive using a notched trowel but only apply enough adhesive that can be covered within 30 minutes.
• Note: Stone Veneer must not be fitted externally when temperatures are forecast to be 5°c or less or more than 35°c degrees for the next 48 hours.

Step 2 - Installation

• Start at the corners and work towards the centre of the wall.
• Be sure to alternate long and short returns on corner pieces.
• Take a clean stone and slightly dampen the back, this will remove any dirt and will prevent moisture loss from adhesive.
• Apply a coat of adhesive approx. 10mm to the entire back of the flats and corners.
• Press the stone onto the wall rotating slightly to force some of the adhesive to squeeze out.
• Any adhesive forced out should be removed before the adhesive is allowed to set. Adhesive joints are better off narrow but should be consistent.
• Fill any gaps with small stones and use spacers where necessary to maintain the joint. Evaluate your work as you go along.
• Cut and trim the stones if you need particular size to fill the gaps.

Step 3 - Fitting Stones & Grouting Joints

• Fill all the gaps between the stones with Gun Pointing Mortar (GPM) or alternatively grout with a sand cement/lime (check suitability) to slightly above the desired finish depth. The grout will tighten and seal up the area around the stone.
• Let the GPM/grout dry until it is firm but not solid. You want to be able to push on it without leaving fingerprints, but don’t let the GPM/grout dry too much or it will be very difficult to strike.
• Strike the GPM/grout to achieve the desired finish look.
• Use your striking stick to scrape along the joints until the GPM/grout has a clean and even look.

Step 4 - Sweeping the Stone

• Finally, use your medium bristled brush to sweep the dust off the stone.