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1. PREPARING THE SURFACE
Florida Architectural
Stone can be applied to any structurally sound surface. Due to
its lightweight, no special foundation or structural alterations
are necessary. On clean (unpainted, untreated) concrete block,
install a scratch coat of _” to 3/8” consisting of type
S mortar with akro-7 T Bonding agent, or equal, to insure good
bond strength. On all other surfaces, metal lathe must be applied
first. Nail, staple, or power set the lathe six inches on center
into the studs. On metal buildings, attach the lathe with a drill
and self-tapping screws. Be sure to attach the lathe with the
right side up so the small cups are pointing upward. Outside,
on a wood surface, apply a vapor barrier, # 15 or greater, such
as felt building paper before attaching the lathe.
2.
APPLYING THE SCRATCH COAT
Lathed surfaces
should be covered with a thin scratch coat, _” to 3/8”,
covering all lathe. If not applying to wet scratch coat, allow
24 hours to dry. Mortar type shall be S, with a 2-1/2: 1 ratio.
Use clean washed masonry sand.
3.
MORTARING THE STONE
Prior to installing
Florida Architectural Stone, it is best to unpack pieces from
the pallet/package and spread out separately on the ground to
gain a better sense of the various shapes, sizes, and color blend.
Select your first stone and apply a 1-inch thick, evenly distributed
layer of mortar to the back of the stone.
4.
APPLYING THE STONE
Press Florida
Architectural Stone firmly on the wall surface so that the mortar
behind the stone squeezes out around all sides. Using a gentle
wiggling action while applying the stone will ensure a good bond.
To help keep the stone clean during construction, begin installation
at the top of the wall surface and work downward. Install the
corners first for easiest fitting. When selecting stones, try
to achieve a balanced pattern of shapes, sizes, colors, thickness,
and textures. Keep the mortar joints between the stone as tight
and uniform as possible. Avoid long, straight, and unbroken joint
lines.
5. TRIMMING THE STONE
When necessary,
Florida Architectural Stone can be cut with a stone hammer, brick
trowel, or nippers to form special sizes and shapes for better
fitting. Always try to position the trimmed stones on the wall
surface so the cut edges will not show.
6. GROUTING THE JOINTS
After all
of the stone has been applied to the wall surface, fill a grout
bag with mortar, and in the manner of decorating a cake, partially
fill in the joints between the stones with mortar (your dealer
can furnish you with a grout bag). Be sure while grouting to cover
any noticeable broken stone edges with mortar. If you prefer colored
mortar joints, oxide colors can be mixed with your mortar prior
to grouting.
7.
STRIKING THE JOINTS
When the mortar
joints become firm, use a wooden or metal striking tool to rake
out the Excess mortar to the desired depth. At the same time,
force the mortar onto the joints. To thoroughly seal the joint
edges. Be careful not to work the joints too soon, or the mortar
will smear.
8. BRUSHING
Brush the
mortar joints with a whiskbroom to smooth them and clean away
the loose mortar. At the same time, brush off any mortar spots
from the face of the stone. Loose mortar spots, which have set
for only a few hours, clean up easily and should never be allowed
to set up overnight.
9.
COMPLETION
The use of
a high quality waterproofing sealer may be used on any Florida
Architectural Stone surface. A sealed surface is much easier to
clean than an unsealed surface. If you have any problems or questions
about installing, contact our Globalnex customer service center
directly at 813-287-8218.
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