How to build a Stone wall with InfinitiStone cladding products.

Most DIYs love the idea of being able to build a stone wall however may feel that it will be a task that is beyond you. The fact is, with careful planning and seeking appropriate professional advice where possible before starting, will ensure a hassle free outcome. It is easier than you think. Built properly, your stone Project should provide you with many years of gratifying results. Below is a brief install guide which we trust will assist with your new stone wall project.

Step 1 - Planning

The first thing you need to consider is where you want your stone wall. Some basic questions would be;

• Do I want it to be cladded over an existing wall? or
• Do I want a new wall built? If yes, then will it be masonry or timber studded with board lining?
• What size stone wall do I want?
• Which InfinitiStone products will suit my project?

 Once your wall is constructed, you are ready to commence your stone cladding.

Step 2 - Measuring your Stone Project Quantity Requirements

Measuring Flat Areas Only 

Multiplying the width with the height to arrive with the total area of stone required. Subtract the area for window and door opening where applicable. 

Note – if applicable, also measure the total lineal metres of outside corner areas to be covered which should include doorways and windows that will have corners.

Corner pieces (where available) come in L-shaped profiles, therefore you need to subtract the total square metres of the corner pieces with the flat areas measured.

Step 3 - Preparation of Surfaces/Substrates

Infiniti Stone is an ‘adhered veneer’ due to its light weight design. As such, it generally requires no additional footings/foundations or wall ties and is therefore ideal for interior and exterior applications. Infiniti Stone can be applied to practically any structurally sound prepared surface.

3.1 Preparation of New Structures

When a new structure is to be built using conventional stud frame, stable timber should be used and clad with cement sheets, blue board, BGC stonesheets* or similar to be fixed using minimum 40mm long galvanized screws penetrating the stud by a minimum of 25mm into studs.

Thickness of sheet lining is to be in accordance with Engineer’s Specifications.

*BGC Stonesheeting manufacturer procedures must be complied with prior to installation.

3.2 Preparation of Existing Structures

If existing wall is constructed in brick, concrete* or masonry surfaces and in good condition, simply ensure the surface is thoroughly cleaned and free from bond breaker, dust, loose aggregates, grease, paint, release agents or similar. Painted surfaces should be scarified to provide mortar key.

* Tilt-up concrete panels are to be acid etched to remove all release agents

If existing wall is constructed of weather board, plasterboard or similar, it is recommended to clad over with cement, blueboard or BGC stonesheet sheeting per procedure stipulated previously. Please ensure that the new cladding is plumb.

If existing wall is constructed of cement sheeting, additional fixing is recommended by nailing the sheets at 300mm centre along studs for extra strength. If the sheets are old, brittle, bowed or cracked, nail new sheets as stipulated previously.

3.3 Preparation of Wall Surface

This step is necessary to ensure a suitable sub-surface prior to applying the stone adhesive.

Subject to the type of wall sheeting installed, if applicable, the instruction to prime and/or waterproof varies from one sheeting manufacturer to another. We therefore recommend that the specific manufacturer be consulted to ensure method of preparation is carried out accordingly - warranties may be void otherwise.

For added structural integrity to support Infiniti Stone application, it is vitally important to apply alkaline resistant fiberglass mesh or expandable metal lathe.

Step 4 – Adhesive/Mortar Preparation

4.1 Mortar

As a guide, to cover approximately 2 square metres of application, add 1 bucket of bricky’s sand, 1 bucket of fine washed sand, ½ bucket of cement and 1 small shovel of lime with abacrete and water.

Continuously stir the mix with a slow speed mechanical stirrer until it becomes a smooth paste free of lumps. Let the mix sit for a few minutes and, after further stirring, proceed with the application.

4.2 Premix Adhesive

We recommend for use of ‘Laticrete 335* (or equal equivalent).   
*See Laticrete Product Specification for detailed manufacturer’s mixing procedures.

For Adhesives, if using Laticrete 335 pre-mix Adhesive (or Equivalent), ensure to wipe off excess from face of stone immediately with a Wet Sponge otherwise it may be difficult to clean off when dry.

Step 5 – Fixing of Stone

5.1 Fixing Corner Stone 

Fix corner stone first as corners form the framework to any Project. Apply the adhesive approximately 15-20mm thick to back of each stone and firmly press into position for several seconds and release. Continue with remaining corner stone, working from bottom up.

5.2   Fixing Flat Stone

5.2.1 Ledge Stone

Starting from the bottom of the wall and working your way up, apply adhesive approximately 15-20mm thick to the back of each stone and press on the stone in a back and forth motion until the adhesive has oozed from around the stone edges then hold for a few seconds and release. Continue with the next stone.

5.2.2 Field Stone

Field stone are to be laid randomly. It is recommended to pre-lay the stone on the ground prior to laying to ensure layout is acceptable. The next step is to apply approximately 15-20mm thick adhesive to the back of the stone and press on the stone in a back and forth motion until the adhesive has oozed from around the stone edges then hold for a few seconds and release. Start from bottom and work your way upwards. Leave approximately one finger width for spacing on stone for grouting if applicable.

Note – if mortar gets on to the face of any stone, DO NOT wipe off with a wet cloth as wiping will smear and stain the stone. Instead, allow the mortar to set until touch dry, then use a whisk broom to remove excess accordingly.

Note - if using Laticrete 335 pre-mix Adhesive (or Equivalent), ensure to wipe off excess from face of stone immediately with a Wet Sponge otherwise it may be difficult to clean off when dry.

Step 6 – Grouting

Grouting can be applied to both Ledge and Field Stone. Using a grout bag you simply fill the joints with grout, applying from top-down as this generally assists with keeping the stone clean. Take care not to smudge onto stone face. If smudging occurs, leave it until it is touch dry and crumbly before brushing it off with a whisk broom.  

Note – if grout gets on to the face of any stone, DO NOT wipe off with a wet cloth as wiping will smear and stain the stone. Instead, allow the grout to set until touch dry, then use a whisk broom to remove excess accordingly. 

Step 7 – Final Clean

Cleaning your stone project is a simple case of using a whisk broom to brush off any excess. After a minimum of 24 hours (longer during cooler weather), wash the work surface to remove any remaining dust or loose material.

Note - Do not use Spirits or Salt as this will affect colour and finish.

Other Handy Tips

• Cement and blueboard sheeting should be laid horizontally, with staggered joints. If BGC Stone sheets are used, please adhere to manufacturer procedures.
• If the wall is supported on piers or on stumps, check that spacing and sole plates are suitable for the additional load. If unsure, consult with a qualified Engineer.
• Do not apply Infiniti Stone over expansion joints or weep holes.
• Adequate capping and/or flashing should be installed to top of all exposed walls in external applications. Avoid water runoff onto your stone application.
• When installing in a dry, hot climate or onto extremely dry surfaces, be sure to wet the stone and the wall first so they do not absorb moisture from the mortar. You can spray or otherwise apply water onto the back of the stone or dip it into water. Spray or brush water onto the wall as well. Allow both to dry a few minutes to remove excess water.
• Do not install below water level, and do not expose stone to chemicals as you will stain the stone.
• Retaining Walls – waterproofing on the fill side is recommended.
• If you have any doubt, we recommend that you contact your local Building professional for advice.

Disclaimer
The information contained in this technical publication is based on our current knowledge and experience and is provided as a guide only. Infinity Trading Group Pty Ltd or Infiniti Stone, its Directors and any of its servants or agents (us) take no responsibility for any actions you take as a result of these guidelines. Installation of our stone is solely at your own risk and will not hold us liable against any Claims for loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect or consequential (including for loss of profit, business or anticipated savings) brought, made or threatened against us by any third party arising directly or indirectly due to using these guidelines. To ensure compliance, we recommend that you consult with your local council, building authority or any other body that has jurisdiction over the installation of stone in your area.

In view of the many factors that may affect application it is the users’ sole responsibility to ensure suitability for a specific purpose and should consult a qualified Engineer if in doubt.