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Dutch Quality Installation
Notes:
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Just as natural stone will vary in color, Dutch Quality Stone will also reflect some degree of variation in color. Actual stone color may vary from brochure. It may also vary from existing structures.
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It may be necessary in some unusual situations to apply sealer to the stone.
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To remove mortar from the stone, clean immediately with a little water and a soft nylon brush.
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To protect the beauty of your Dutch Quality Stone, do not use any acid compounds to clean stone.
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Dutch Quality Stone recommends grouting on all exterior applications.
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Veneer stone is not intended and will not hold up to foot traffic.
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Like any other cement product, under certain weather temperatures and conditions, stone may have signs of efflorescence.
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Dutch Quality Stone may be applied to most any load-bearing wall–wooden, steel, or masonry. Veneered stone does not require a foundation or ledgeplate. First a vapor barrier such as felt, Tyvek or equivalent must be applied to all non-masonry walls. Then, apply 21⁄2 lb. galvanized diamond mesh lath.
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Applying stone to a masonry wall may be direct as long as there is no paint, stain, or release additive in or on the masonry surface. If any of the above conditions exist, it is recommended that you use lath on that surface. Lath should be secured with 1” masonry nails or Tapcon screws every six inches for anchoring. Use vapor barrier before the metal lath. When applying lath to any metal surface, corrugated or studs, that metal must be a minimum of 18 gauge. Galvanized No. 8 self-tapping metal screws should be used every six inches penetrating the metal at least 1⁄4”.
Step1: Securing Metal Lath
Apply vapor barrier of 15 lb. felt, Tyvek, or equivalent. Using paperback lath, start at the bottom, working up the wall overlapping 2” on horizontal joints and 8” on vertical joints (including corners) on all exterior non-masonry surfaces. Lay the 27” x 96” lath horizontally across the wall. The lath should feel rough when you run your hand upward across the surface. All fasteners should be galvanized and at least 1” into the studs every six inches. Lath should be flat against supporting surface with no loose spots. We suggest using wide crown staples at least 11⁄2” in length.
Step2: Mortar Application
When applying bed coat or scratch coat over lath, use type S mortar and 11⁄2 parts of clean brick sand. Add clean water and mix to a thick, creamy texture and spread evenly over the lath about 3⁄8” thick, keeping surface flat and fairly smooth.
Step3: Applying the Stone
Use same mortar mix to apply stone. Lay out 1 to 3 boxes of stone in your work area for easy stone selection. Apply corner stone first and work down and across the wall surface. Apply 1⁄2” mortar to the back side of stone, then evenly press the stone in place with a circular motion. This will set the stone. Sometimes you may have to adjust your mix or texture depending on weather conditions.
Step4: Grouting the Stone
For grouting use type N mortar with the same mix ratio. Use a grout bag, filling between the stone from the wall out to the stone surface. Do not over-fill the joints and mess the stone surface.
Step 5: Striking the Joints
When mortar becomes firm to the touch, strike the joints with a striking tool. Be sure to press grout firmly, filling any holes. When done, lightly sweep excess mortar dust from stone. Any stone cleaning should be done with soapy water the same day if possible. DO NOT USE ANY ACID OR ACID-BASED PRODUCTS.