Cultured Stone® Installation Instructions.

Boral stone ProDUCts llC 

Build something great 

Cultured Stone ® 

manufacturer’s installation instructions 

Cultured Stone ® and Cultured Brick ® Product Installation Instructions are available separately 

from your Dealer and can also be found at www.culturedstone.com 

Building code requirements vary from area to area. Check with local authorities for building code requirements in your area. 

Carefully read all Installation Instructions before proceeding with your Cultured Stone ® products application. Observe safety 

precautions. Cultured Stone ® products are covered by a 50-Year Limited Warranty when installed in accordance with the 

manufacturer’s Installation Instructions. See complete warranty on our website at www.culturedstone.com. 

Estimating thE stonE REquiREd 

Determine the amount of Cultured Stone ® products needed 

by measuring the area to be covered. Measure the length 

times the height to arrive at the gross square footage of 

flat stone needed. Subtract square footage for window, 

door and other openings. Measure the linear feet of outside 

corners to determine the amount of corner pieces needed. 

One linear foot of corner pieces covers approximately 3 ⁄4 

of a square foot of flat area. Subtract the flat area covered 

by the linear feet of corner pieces from the square footage 

of flat stone required. You may wish to obtain some extra 

stone to allow for cutting and trimming. In addition, be 

sure to verify whether the texture chosen is sold based 

on coverage with a 1 ⁄2" mortar joint or tight-fitted. Most 

texture coverages are listed for a 1 ⁄2" joint, the exceptions 

being Drystack Ledgestone, European Castle Stone, Pro- 

Fit ® Ledgestone and Pro-Fit ® Alpine Ledgestone. If you are 

installing a texture, which states coverage is for 1 ⁄2" mortar 

joint, in a tightfit application, increase stone by 10-22%. 

Formula: 

Length x Height = Wall Area 

Window Width x Window Height = Window Area 

Lineal Feet of Corners Required x .75 = Wall Area 

Covered by Corners 

Wall Area – Window Area – Wall Area Covered by 

Corners = Square Ft. Flats Required 

tools REquiREd 

Choose the tools required for your installation—see page 7 

for illustrations and appropriate use. 

• Safety Glasses and other personal protective equipment 

• Staple Gun or Hammer • Wheelbarrow & Hoe • Hock 

& Trowel • Mason’s Trowel • Margin Trowel • Masonry, 

Circular, Table, Wet Saw or Grinder with Carborundum or 

Diamond Blade • Wide-Mouth Nippers or Hatchet • Dust 

Mask (1) • Level • Metal Jointing Tool or Wood Stick • Grout 

Bag • Whisk Broom 

1 

sundRy matERial REquiREmEnts 

A. Mortar Components 

1. Premixed: Type N or Type S mortar, meeting 

ASTM C 270 

a. Mortar mixed as per Table #2 on page #3 

b. Mortar color: iron oxide color meeting ASTM 

C 979 (if desired) 

c. Water: Potable water meeting ASTM 

C 1602/1602M 

2. Premixed, Polymer Modified meeting ANSI 118.4 

and compatible with Adhered Lightweight Concrete 

Masonry Veneer. 

a. Mortar mixed: Strictly per mortar manufacturer’s 

instructions to insure compliance with ANSI 118.4 

b. Water (when required): Potable water meeting 

ASTM C 1602/1602M 

c. Mortar color: iron oxide color meeting ASTM 

C 979(if desired) 

3. Polymer Modifiers/Bonding Agents 

a. Polymer modifiers and/or bonding agents must 

comply with ASTM C 270, ASTM C 1059, ASTM 

C 1384 or CSA A179 

b. Polymer modifiers and/or bonding agents must be 

used in strict accordance with the manufacturers’s 

instructions for Adhered Lightweight Concrete 

Masonry Veneer and must satisfy the sheer bond 

requirements of ANSI 118.4 

c. Polymer bonding agents must accommodate 

rewetting to avoid potential bond compromise 

B. Water Resistive Barrier 

Depending on local building code requirements, barrier 

shall meet the requirements of ICC Acceptance Criteria 38 

“Acceptance Criteria for Water Resistive Barriers.” 

Note: Water-resistive barrier must be used on all 

exterior and interior mortar applications. Waterresistive 

barrier is not required for application over 

masonry or concrete.

C. Flashing 

1. To maintain the weather-resistance of the exterior 

wall on which stone products are installed, corrosionresistant 

flashing, weep screed and a means of 

drainage shall be installed at all penetrations and 

terminations of the stone cladding. Flashing type and 

locations shall be in accordance with the requirements 

of the applicable building code. 

2. For additional recommendations regarding flashing, 

refer to the following trade associations, standards, 

organizations and resources: 

a. ASTM E 2112 

b. Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) 

c. Brick Institute of America (BIA) 

d. The American Plywood Association (APA) 

e. Local building department 

f. Architect or engineer 

g. Masonry Veneer Manufacturers Association (MVMA) 

installation guide for adhered concrete masonry 

veneer, available at www.masonryveneer.org 

D. Metal Lath 

1. Minimum 2.5-lb. galvanized self-furring expanded 

metal lath (diamond mesh) meeting the requirements 

of ASTM C 847, or min. 18-gauge galvanized selffurring 

woven wire mesh meeting the requirements of 

ASTM C 1032. 

2. For metal buildings and open stud construction— 

minimum 3.4-lb. 3⁄8" rib, paper-backed, expanded 

galvanized metal lath. 

3. Or other code accepted mesh or lath. 

E. Fasteners 

1. Galvanized nails, staples, concrete nails. 

2. Corrosion-resistant, self-drilling, self-tapping pancakehead 

screw with 7⁄16" head, of 11⁄4" length or suitable to 

obtain 3⁄8" penetration beyond inside surface of metal. 

(Used for installing to metal surfaces such as metal 

studs or metal building siding.) 

F. Masonry Sealer 

1. Silane-based breather-type sealer (if required). 

See “Sealers” in General Information section (page 6). 

suRfacE PREPaRation foR moRtaR installations 

Using Table 1, determine the correct surface preparation for 

your installation 

Rigid Backwal l 

Two (2) Layers of 

Water-Resistive 

Barrier 

Metal Lath 

Scratch Coat/Mortar 

® 

Cultured Stone 

Product 

Open Studs 



Barrier (Paper- 

Backed Metal Lath) 

Metal Lath 

Scratch Coat 

Mortar 

Figure 1 1 

Figure 2 2 

Metal Building 

Concrete or 


Masonry Surface 


Barrier (Paper- 

Backed Metal Lath) 

Metal Lath 

Scratch Coat 

Mortar Mortar 


Product 

® 


Product 


Product 

Figure 3 Figure 4 

Figure 3 

Figure 4 

2 

WALL SURFACE 

Rigid Backwall 

Wallboard 

Plywood 

Paneling 

OSB 

Concrete Board 

Polystyrene Insulation 

Board 

installed over a Rigid 

Backwall 

Clean & Untreated 

Concrete 

Masonry 

Stucco* 

Dirty, Painted or Sealed 

Concrete, Masonry or 

Stucco 

Metal Buildings 

Insulation Board or 

Open Studs 

Polystyrene Foam Board 

Please see Installation Over 

Thick Foam note page 7 

Table 1 

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 

PREPARATION REQUIRED 

Cover sheathing with a two (2) layers of breather-type water 

resistive barrier, lap joints minimum 6" at vertical joints and 

minimum 2" at horizontal joints in shingle fashion. Then, in 

accordance with local building code, lap and install lath or 

mesh using galvanized nails or staples 6" on center vertically, 

penetrating studs a minimum of 1". Continuously wrap water 

resistive barrier and metal lath a minimum of 16" to next 

framing member around all outside and inside corners (Fig. 

1). Apply 3 ⁄8" to 3 ⁄4" scratch coat. 

Examine newly poured concrete closely to ensure that its 

finished surface contains no release agents (form oil). If it 

does contain form oil, etch surface with muriatic acid, rinse 

thoroughly and/or score with a wire brush, beadblast or 

sandblast (Fig. 3). No further preparation needed. 

Sandblast, beadblast or waterblast to original surface (remove 

sandblasting dust by washing) or securely attach lath. 

Install primary water resistive barrier. 

Lap and install 3.4-lb. 3 ⁄8" rib, paper-backed, expanded metal 

lath to metal cladding supports of 20 ga. to 12 ga. using 

corrosion-resistant, self-drilling, self-tapping pancake-head 

screw with 7 ⁄16" head, of 1 1 ⁄4" length or suitable to obtain 3 ⁄8" 

penetration beyond inside surface metal. Screws are to be 

installed on center equal to 1 screw/sq. ft. and shall not 

exceed 6" on center in one direction. Apply 1 ⁄2" to 3 ⁄4" scratch 

coat and allow to dry 48 hours (Fig. 4). 

Install primary water resistive barrier. Lap and install 3.4-lb. 

3 ⁄8" rib, paper-backed, expanded metal lath to studs using 

nails which penetrate a minimum of 1" at 4" on center. Apply 

1 ⁄2" to 3 ⁄4" scratch coat and allow to dry 48 hours (Fig. 2). 

*Stucco cement plaster meeting requirements of ASTM C926, or other building code 

approved stucco. EIFS systems are not an approved backing for Cultured Stone ® . 

WatER REsistivE BaRRiER (WRB) 

When installing manufactured stone veneer, in an exterior 

application requiring a WRB, two separate layers of 

WRB shall be used. Each layer of WRB should meet the 

requirements for Water Resistive Barrier (Grade D) as defined 

by ICC Acceptance Criteria AC-38, or ASTM E 2556/E 

2556M. Installation of the WRB should follow instructions 

provided by specific manufacturer. When installing 

manufactured stone veneer in an interior application, a 

single layer of WRB is recommended. 

WatERtaBlE/sill installations 

Watertables/sills provide a transition piece between a stone 

wainscot and other exterior finishes and for water runoff. 

They can also be used as a windowsill. Install using 

galvanized metal support brackets (Simpson Strong Tie 

A-21 or other galvanized right angle bracket with holding 

capacity minimum 5 lbs./LF) fastened with galvanized 

nails or screws penetrating studs 1" at a minimum of 16" 

on center. Two brackets per sill is preferred if blocking 

is present. Use construction adhesive to bond stone 

at bracket locations. Caulk and flash as required at 

Watertable/Sill locations using an approved corrosionresistive 

flashing that extends to the surface of exterior wall 

finish and is installed to prevent water from re-entering the 

exterior wall envelope.

Windowsill Windowsill Cross Section Cross Section 

Caulk/Flashing Caulk/Flashing 

as Required* as Required* 

Galvanized Galvanized Wood Wood 

Screw Screw 

Watertable/Sill Watertable/Sill Stone Stone 

Construction Construction 

Adhesive (Bracket Adhesive (Bracket 

Locations Locations Only) Only) 

Galvanized Galvanized Metal Metal 

Bracket, Holding Bracket, Holding 

Capacity 5 Capacity Lbs/LF 5 Lbs/LF 

Mortar Setting Bed 

Lath 



Lath 


Product 


Barrier 

® 

Product 


Barrier 

* Failure to properly caulk/flash as described in these installation directions may 

result in water damage to the structure. 

installing stonE at gRound lEvEl 

Keep the finished edge of the Cultured Stone ® product a 

minimum of 4" above grade if earth or 2" above pavement. 

Use a 2" x 4" leveling strip (straightedge) or weep screed/ 

flashing. Framed (wood or metal) applications are required 

by code in many jurisdictions to have weep screed or a 

weeped casing bead, at the base of the wall or foundation 

transition. This will: 

• Provide drainage as required by applicable building code. 

• Avoid possible staining of the stone by soils containing 

alkali or other minerals. 

PREPaRE youR WoRk aREa 

Spread Cultured Stone ® wall veneer out at the job site 

so you have a good variety of sizes, shapes and colors 

to choose from. Plan for some variety and contrast in 

the overall design. Use small stones next to large ones, 

heavy-textured pieces next to smooth, thick stones next 

to thinner ones. Mixing Cultured Stone ® wall veneer from 

different boxes during application will allow you to achieve a 

desirable balance of stones on your finished project. 

moRtaR 

NOTE: Weather Conditions 

If stone is being applied in hot or dry weather, the back of 

each piece should be moistened with a fine spray of water 

or a wet brush to adequately prevent excessive absorption 

of moisture from the mortar. If being installed over concrete, 

masonry or scratch coat substrate, the substrate surface 

area should also be dampened before applying mortar. 

Surfaces should appear damp but free of surface water. 

Applications should be protected from temperatures below 

40°F as mortar will not cure properly under such conditions. 

Do not use antifreeze compounds to lower the freezing point 

of mortar. See International Building Code Section 2104.3 for 

cold weather construction requirements. 

A. Mixing Mortar/Grout 

Using Premixed Type N or Type S mortar or components 

from Table 2, mix to a firm, moist consistency. Mortar that 

is too dry and crumbly will not provide proper bond. Mortar 

that is too wet will be weak and messy. 

Interior Finish per 

Schedule 

2 x 4 Stud Wall 

(Insulated) 

Sheathing 


Barrier 

Exterior Finish per 

Schedule 

Caulk/Flashing 

as Required* 

Watertable/Sill Stone 

Galvanized Metal 

Bracket, Holding 

Capacity 5 Lbs/LF 

Lath 



Wainscot Cross Section 

Interior Finish per 

Schedule 

2 x 4 Stud Wall 

(Insulated) 

Sheathing 


Barrier 

Exterior Finish per 

Schedule 

Caulk/Flashing 

as Required* 

Construction 

Adhesive (Bracket 

Locations Only) 

Watertable/Sill Stone 

Galvanized Metal 

Bracket, Holding 

Capacity 5 Lbs/LF 

Galvanized Wood 

Screw 

Lath 



Product 

® 

Wainscot Cross Section 

Table 2 – Proportions for Mortar 

Parts By Volume 

Portland Cement 

Mortar 

Masonry Masonry Hydrated Lime 

or Blended 

Aggregate 

type 

Cement Type N Cement Type S or Lime Putty 

Cement 

N 1 I 4 

Construction 

Adhesive (Bracket 

Locations Only) 

Galvanized Wood 

Screw 

Product 

1 ⁄2 to 6 

N I 21 ⁄4 to 3 

S I 21 ⁄4 to 3 

B. Mortar Color 

Tinting mortar complements the color of the stone being 

installed. Example: Use tan mortar with earth-tone stones. 

This will greatly enhance the appearance of the finished 

installation. Regular mortars can be tinted to complement 

your Cultured Stone ® product using iron oxide pigments 

available from your dealer. 

C. Applying Mortar to Prepared Surface Area 

Using a plasterer’s or mason’s trowel (Fig. 5 and 6), apply 

mortar 1⁄2" to 3⁄4" thick to prepared surface area. Do not 

spread more than a workable area (5 to 10 sq. ft.) so that 

mortar will not “set up” before stone is applied. 

3 

Figure 5 

Scratch Coat 

Mortar 

Apply mortar using a 

plasterer’s trowel. 

Mortar 

Figure 6 

Apply mortar using a 

mason’s trowel. 

aPPlying cultuREd stonE ® PRoducts 

See page 4 for additional instructions concerning Pro-Fit ® 

Ledge-stone, Pro-Fit ® Alpine Ledgestone and European 

Castle Stone. 

A. Starting Point 

Apply mortar and stone working from the bottom up, 

or most stones can also be applied from the top down. 

Working from the top down may help avoid splashing 

previously applied stone with dripping mortar. Ledgestone 

types should be installed from the bottom up. 

B. Joint Width 

In order to obtain the most natural look, joints should be as 

narrow as possible. The average should not exceed 1⁄2" in 

width. An attractive look can also be achieved by fitting 

stones tightly together if desired. If using tight fit/drystack 

method, it is important to make sure scratch coat/backing 

has been covered completely by the setting bed of mortar. 

This will conceal the scratch coat/backing and prevent 

pockets from forming behind stones that could trap water. 

C. Setting the Stones 

Press each stone into the mortar setting bed firmly enough 

to squeeze some mortar out around the stone’s edges. Apply 

pressure to the stone to ensure a good bond. Ensure 

complete coverage between the mortar bed and 

back surface of the stone. Mortar may also be applied 

to the entire back of the stone (Fig. 7). When stone is 

installed correctly, lath will not be visible. The mortar setting 

bed shall be between 3 ⁄8” minimum and 1 ⁄8” maximum. 

Care must be taken to avoid smearing Figure 7 

mortar on surface of stone. Accidental 

smears or mortar droppings should be 

removed using a whisk broom only 

after mortar has become crumbly. 

Mortar applied to the 

entire back 

of the stone.

D. Install Corner Pieces First Figure 8 

If your application requires corner 

pieces, apply these first. Notice 

that the corner pieces have a long 

and a short leg. Alternate these in 

opposite directions (Fig. 8). 

Apply corners— 

alternating long 

and short legs 

in the opposite 

directions. 

E. Install Flat Pieces Figure 9 

Apply flat pieces. 

After the corner pieces are in place, 

flat pieces are applied working toward 

the wall center (Fig. 9). 

F. Keep Your Mortar Joints 

Consistent 

Place the individual stones 

close together, creating 

uniform joints between them. 

Cut and trim as required to 

achieve consistent width in the 

mortar joints. Then trim and fit 

Figure 10 

Position large pieces 

first, then trim and fit 

in smaller pieces. 

small pieces into any remaining voids (Fig. 10). 

G. Cutting and Trimming 

Stones can be cut and shaped for fit. Use wide-mouth 

nippers or a hatchet (Fig. 11 and 12). (Refer to page 7– 

Tools Required.) Some broken stones may be found in 

the box. These also may be used in filling gaps between 

large stones. For best finished appearance, coat cut or 

broken edges with mortar. If possible, position cut edges 

up when they are above eye level, down when below eye 

level. SAFETY GLASSES AND A DUST MASK (1) SHOULD 

ALWAYS BE WORN WHEN CUTTING ANY CULTURED 

STONE ® PRODUCTS. 

Figure 11 

Trim with widemouth 

nippers. 

Figure 12 

Trim with 

a hatchet. 

NOTES: 

Level and Plumb Joint Lines 

When applying Cobblefield ® manufactured stone veneer, 

European Castle Stone, Limestone, Rockface, Coral or 

Ledgestone, endeavor to maintain level and plumb joint 

lines. Also, long rectangular pieces will look most natural if 

applied horizontally. 

River Rock and Stream Stone 

When applying River Rock or Stream Stone, plan the 

placement of stones to minimize trimming and cutting to 

maintain the natural look of the rounded shapes. 

Ledgestone Types 

When applying ledgestone types, keep joints as small as 

possible to maintain a natural look, and install from the 

bottom up. Strike joints deeply, being careful not to expose 

the back edge of stones or scratch coat/backing. See page 

4 for additional instructions regarding Pro-Fit ® Ledgestone, 

Pro-Fit ® Alpine Ledgestone and European Castle Stone. 

4 

tyPical installations: 

Wood Frame: 

In sequence: (1) sheathing, (2) two layers of water resistive barrier, 

(3) galvanized metal lath, (4) mortar/scratch coat/setting bed 

(5) Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone veneer, (6) mortar joint. 

Rigid Foam Insulation: 

In sequence: (1) rigid foam insulation, (2) two layers of water resistive 

barrier, (3) galvanized metal lath, (4) scratch coat, (5) mortar setting bed, 

(6) Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone veneer, (7) mortar joint. 

Masonry or Concrete: 

In sequence: (1) mortar applied directly to untreated, unpainted masonry, 

concrete or stucco, (2) Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone veneer, 

(3) mortar joint. 

Corner Preparation: 

1 

1 

1 

2 

2 

3 

2 

3 

4 

1 

4 

5 

2 

Water resistive barrier and lath must continuously wrap a minimum of 

16” at outside and inside corners and fasten at a framing member. Lap 

water resistive barrier a minimum of 4” at vertical and 2” at horizontal 

lap joints. Lap lath a minimum of 1” at vertical and horizontal seams. 

(1) wall substrate, (2) two layers of water resistive barrier, (3) metal lath. 

3 

6 

3 

5 

7 

6

gRouting and finishing Joints 

A. Grouting Joints 

Figure 13 

If additional mortar is required, Grout joints. 

use a grout bag to fill in joints (Fig. 

13). Care must be taken to avoid 

smearing mortar on surface of stone. Accidental smears or 

mortar droppings should be removed only after mortar has 

become crumbly using a whisk broom or dry bristle brush. 

Never use a wet brush or wire brush. 

B. Finishing Joints 

Figure 14 

Finishing the job. 

When the mortar joints have become 

firm or “thumb-print” dry (setting time 

will vary depending on wall surface 

and climatic conditions), they should 

be pointed up with a wood stick or 

metal jointing tool. Rake out excess 

mortar, compact and seal edges around stones (Fig. 14). 

Careful attention to proper and even jointing will result in a 

professional looking finish. 

C. Cleaning Finished Job 

At the end of the work day, or when mortar is sufficiently 

set up, the finished job should be broomed or brushed to 

remove loose mortar and to clean the face of the stone. A 

wet brush or sponge should never be used to treat the 

mortar joints as this will cause staining that will be difficult, 

or impossible, to remove. Do not use acid or acid-based 

products. 

additional instRuctions foR PRo-fit ® 

lEdgEstonE, PRo-fit ® alPinE lEdgEstonE 

and EuRoPEan castlE stonE 

Fit the Joints Tightly 

Install all these products with tight-fitted joints. Generally, 

components should be placed butting each other and 

aligned for level and plumb. When installing, the backs of all 

these components must be wet. They should be noticeably 

damp, but free from surface water. Mortar must be tinted 

to match the color of the stone you are installing to help 

conceal the joint lines. 

A. Starting Point 

Products are applied starting from the bottom and 

working up. Start each ProFit ® Ledgestone course level 

and continue horizontally completing each course before 

starting the next. European Castle Stone is done in a similar 

sequence to achieve a random ashlar pattern. If required, 

cut the appropriate size component to fit at the end or top 

of the finish area (Fig. 18). Frequently check the installation 

for level and alignment. 

B. Install Corner Pieces First 

If your application requires corner pieces, start by installing 

a corner piece first, followed by the adjoining flat pieces. 

Notice that the corner pieces have a long and short leg. 

Alternate these in opposite directions. 

C. Setting the Stones 

Press each stone into the mortar setting bed firmly enough 

to squeeze some mortar out around the mortar groove 

at the back edge of component. Apply pressure to the 

component to ensure a good bond. Ensure complete 

coverage between the mortar bed and back surface 

5 

of stone. Mortar may also be applied to the entire back of 

the stone. Check for level and plumb. 

D. Install Flat Pieces 

Figure 15 

Strike off extruded mortar 

from edge before placing 

next component. (ProFit ® 

Ledgestone shown) 

After the first corner 

piece is in place, the 

adjoining flat pieces 

of each course or 

pattern are applied. 

Using a trowel, strike 

off the excess mortar 

around the edges of 

the component prior 

to placing the next component. This will allow the next 

adjacent component to fit tightly (see Fig. 15). Choose 

the correct length component to ensure that vertical 

joints do not line up. 

E. Cutting and Trimming 

Vertical or horizontal cuts can be made using a table saw, 

circular saw or small grinder equipped with a dry cutting 

diamond or carborundum blade. 

CUTTING SHOULD BE DONE OUTSIDE AS SOME 

DUST WILL OCCUR. SAFETY GLASSES AND A DUST 

MASK (1) SHOULD ALWAYS BE WORN WHEN CUTTING 

ANY CULTURED STONE ® PRODUCTS. Stones can also 

be cut and shaped using wide-mouth nippers or a hatchet. 

Additional Information on Cutting and Fitting 

Finished Edges—Place finished edges at exposed areas. 

Cut Edges—Place cut edges within courses. 

Finishing Joints 

The design simplicity of Pro-Fit ® Ledgestone, Pro-Fit ® Alpine 

Ledgestone and European Castle Stone allows for easy 

installation of components and provides a finished, tightfit 

joint between the stones. This reduces the time required for 

cutting, grouting and jointing. 

Surface Cleaning 

Care must be taken to avoid smearing mortar on the 

surface of components. Accidental smears or mortar 

droppings should be removed with a whisk broom or dry 

bristle brush only after mortar has become crumbly. Do 

not use a wet brush, sponge or a wire brush. Do not 

use acid or acid-based products, power-washing, 

sandblasting or wire-brush cleaning. 

additional instRuctions foR installing cast-fit ® 

The Cast-Fit ® product has been designed for the best 

appearance and performance when installed with a 3/8” 

mortar joint. Starting with a level line for your first course, 

maintain level and plumb courses as you proceed up 

the wall. Starting with thicker stones to set face plane, 

use mortar setting bed thickness to even face plane of 

thinner stones and accommodate variations in substrate 

surface. Application of a uniform and true scratch coat will 

also accommodate variations in the substrate surface. It 

is recommended that 3/8” dowel pins or shims be used 

to maintain a uniform head and bed joint space during 

installation. The mortar joint should be tooled to a concave 

shape, just below the surface of the stone. To obtain the

coverage stated on packaging and literature this mortar 

joint spacing must be maintained. If you choose to install 

Cast-Fit ® in a tight-fit or mortar-less joint application 

you must achieve complete mortar setting bed 

coverage and full perimeter squeeze out. To achieve 

this, with stones of this size, it may be necessary to 

use a mortar application method in which mortar is 

toweled onto the scratch coat and back buttered on 

the stone. 

installing finishing touchEs 

Hearthstone Installation Instructions 

Hearthstones are not recommended or warranted 

for exterior use or as a surface area subject to foot 

traffic. TERRA CRAFT ® Pavers are available from your 

dealer for use as a hearthstone or for patios and walkways. 

Consult surface preparation table 1 for requirements prior 

to installing Hearthstone. 

Figure 16 

A. Place Mortar 

Place mortar for 

Hearthstone installation. 

Place mortar 3⁄4” deep in 3-inch 

wide strips 1 inch apart on 

prepared surface (Fig. 16). 

B. Install Hearthstones 

Figure 17 

Place the first Hearthstone onto the 

Place 

mortar bed and level (Fig. 17). Place Hearthstone. 

adjacent Hearthstones, aligning and 

leveling with the first piece. 

If joints need additional mortar, fill 

joints using a grout bag. Tool and 

finish joints following previous instructions under “Grouting 

and Finishing Joints.” Ensure Hearthstones are set in a 

complete bed of mortar. 

C. Cutting and Trimming Hearthstones 

Hearthstones can be cut as required using a circular saw 

fitted with a carborundum or diamond blade or using a 

mason’s brick or tile saw. Place finished edges at exposed 

areas. SAFETY GLASSES AND A DUST MASK (1) 

SHOULD ALWAYS BE WORN WHEN CUTTING ANY 

CULTURED STONE ® PRODUCTS. 

NOTES: Hearthstone Installation UL Listed 

Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone veneer and hearth 

products are made from non-combustible materials. Mortar 

joints must not exceed 1 ⁄2” in width and the mortar must be 

even with the top of the hearth surface. 

Raised Hearth 

Do not cantilever or extend Hearthstones more than 1 ⁄2” 

beyond direct support. When grouting the extended portion 

of a cantilevered Hearthstone, bring the grout to the front 

edge. Push a long galvanized nail horizontally into the grout 

to add support, then cover the nail with mortar. 

Sealing Fireplaces/Hearths 

If desired, sealing the Cultured Stone ® facing or hearth of a 

fireplace installation will assist in the removal of smoke and 

soot stains should they occur. See “Sealers” in General 

Information section for more information (page 6). 

6 

Cultured Stone ® Electrical Box Stones 

Installation Instructions 

NOTES: Electrical Box Stones Installation 

Attach UL-listed extension box to prewired 

and mounted electrical box. 

Center Electrical Box Stone over the 

extension box. Level and plumb. Use 

removable shims if required. 

1 2 

3 

Apply mortar to back of Electrical Box Stone 

or prepared substrate. 

Complete placement of Cultured Stone ® 

veneer or other exterior material 

around Electrical Box Stone. 

• Electrical Box Stones must be installed in accordance 

with Cultured Stone ® Installation Instructions. 

• Extension box, light fixture or receptacle plate must be 

attached in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions 

and local building codes. 

Tuscan Lintel Installation Instructions 

Method One 

On installations where the top of the opening provides no 

support for the bottom edge of the Tuscan Lintel: Install 

metal support brackets as per Cultured Stone ® Installation 

Instructions for Watertables/Sills. Then install Lintel stones in a 

full setting bed of mortar in accordance with Cultured Stone ® 

Installation Instructions. 

Method Two 

On installations where the bottom edge of the Tuscan Lintel 

will be supported by a window or door frame’s molding or 

profile: Install lintel stones in a full setting bed of mortar in 

accordance with Cultured Stone ® Installation Instructions. 

Make sure you do not cause deflection to window with 

weight of Lintel. If there is any question, use method one. 

gEnERal infoRmation 

Cleaning 

Dirt, etc., may be removed by using a strong solution of 

granulated soap or detergent and water with a bristle 

brush. Do not use a wire brush as it will cause damage 

to the surface. Rinse immediately with fresh water. For 

help with serious cleaning problems, contact your local 

dealer. Do not attempt to clean using acid or acidcontaining 

products, power-washing, sandblasting 

or wire-brush cleaning. 

4

Enhanced Bond 

Pre-Blended Polymer modified mortars, bonding agents/ 

enhancers may provide greater bond strength. Enhanced 

bond strength capability may be desired for: tight fit 

applications, tilt up construction or where code jurisdictions 

require higher bond strength. These products must be 

compatible with manufactured stone and used in strict 

accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. These 

products may also have specific requirements regarding: 

hot or cold weather, exposure to rain/water while curing or 

water used to dampen the stone units prior to installation. 

Salt and De-Icing Chemicals 

Because all concrete and masonry are vulnerable to 

damage by salt, Cultured Stone ® products are not 

warranted against damage incurred from salt or other 

chemicals used to remove snow or ice. Do not use de-icing 

chemicals on areas immediately adjacent to a Cultured 

Stone ® manufactured stone veneer application. 

Scuffing 

Scuffing occurs on all natural stone. Occasionally some 

scuffing will occur on the surface of Cultured Stone ® 

products. This can enhance the natural appearance of your 

Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone veneer installation. 

Some scuff marks can be removed by cleaning as 

described above. 

Efflorescence 

Efflorescence is a water-soluble salt that is deposited on 

the surface of stucco, concrete, brick and other masonry 

products by the evaporation of water from the wall. On 

rare occasions efflorescence will occur on Cultured Stone ® 

products. To remove efflorescence, allow the stone to dry 

thoroughly, then scrub vigorously with a stiff bristle brush and 

clean water. Rinse thoroughly—do not use a wire brush. For 

more difficult efflorescence problems, scrub thoroughly with 

a solution of 1 part white household vinegar to 5 parts water. 

Rinse thoroughly. For unusually difficult cleaning problems, 

contact your local Cultured Stone ® dealer. 

Sealers 

Sealers are not necessary on Cultured Stone ® products. 

However, some customers use sealers to help prevent 

staining in applications prone to smoke, soot, dirt or water 

splashing. If you choose to use a sealer, make sure it is 

a silane-based, breathable sealer. Take note that sealers 

may darken the color of the stone. A sealer may also slow 

the natural movement of moisture out of the stone and 

increase the possibility of efflorescence and/or spalling. For 

information regarding actual performance or application of 

sealers, contact the manufacturer of the sealer directly. 

(1) CAUTION: Contains Crystalline Silica. Dusts from cutting or sawing may create 

possible cancer hazard. Dusts of this product may cause irritation of the nose, 

throat and respiratory tract. Avoid prolonged or repeated inhalation of dusts from 

this product. 

A properly fitted NIOSH approved N-95 series disposable particulate filtering 

facepiece respirator (formerly referred to as “dust masks”) should be used when 

mechanically altering this product (e.g., sawing, cutting, drilling or similar dust 

generating processes). Wear long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and safety 

glasses with side shields when handling and installing material. Wash hands and 

face with soap and warm water immediately after handling this product. 

7 

Staple Gun/Hammer 

(Applying water-resistive barrier 

and/or metal lath) 

Mason’s Trowel 

(Applying mortar) 

Wheelbarrow and Hoe 

(Mixing mortar) 

Wide-Mouth Nippers/Hatchet 

(Trimming stone) 

tools Required 

Margin Trowel 

(Applying masonry adhesive) 

Masonry, Circular, Table, Wet Cut Saw or Grinder 

with Carborundum or Diamond Blade 

Metal Jointing Tool/Wood Stick 

(Finishing joints) 

Hock and Trowel 

Level 

Grout Bag 

Whisk Broom 

(Cleaning finished work) 

Dust Mask (1) Safety Glasses (1) 

Use of Cultured Stone ® Below Water Levels 

Cultured Stone ® veneer is a lightweight concrete material 

and will not deteriorate from exposure to fresh liquid water. 

The use of Cultured Stone ® veneer below water level, in 

which the water is chlorinated, treated with chemicals or dirty 

will likely cause discoloration as it would on any concrete, 

natural stone or other materials. Pool chemicals which 

contain acid, such as muriatic acid, may cause damage 

to Cultured Stone ® products, which would not be covered 

by the Cultured Stone ® 50 Year Limited Warranty. Cultured 

Stone ® veneer, concrete and many natural stone materials 

are subject to potential damage from adverse freeze thaw 

conditions. For that reason, water should be drained below 

susceptible materials prior to freezing temperatures. Pressure 

and abrasion from constant fast flowing water may cause 

some surface deterioration as it would on other concrete 

materials. The surfaces of concrete and many other materials 

may be affected by exposure to extensive salt-water 

conditions. Cultured Stone ® veneer should not be considered 

a waterproof material.

incoRPoRatE good Building PRacticEs 

Building Code Requirements 

Building code requirements vary from area to area. Check 

with local authorities for building code requirements in 

your area. Carefully read all Installation Instructions before 

proceeding with your Cultured Stone ® manufactured stone 

veneer application. 

Exterior Applications 

Make sure that the application of Cultured Stone ® products 

and the structure they are being applied to incorporate 

good building practices. Rigid, corrosion-resistant flashing 

shall be installed at all wall penetrations. Flashing type and 

locations shall be in accordance with the requirements 

of the applicable building code. On exterior applications, 

the incorrect installation or absence of flashing, cant 

strips, gutters and downspouts may result in diversion of 

water run-off onto finished surface areas. Masonry and 

other building products subjected to these conditions 

may develop staining and, when combined with severe 

freeze-thaw conditions, may eventually cause damage. 

The application of Cultured Stone ® products under these 

conditions is not recommended. 

Rainscreen Statement 

Some building codes require a rainscreen behind cladding 

materials, including manufactured stone veneer. If you are 

installing manufactured stone/brick veneer in one of these 

jurisdictions, or are concerned about extreme weather 

conditions, it is recommended that you choose a rainscreen 

system that can achieve the following: 

• The system should create a space with a minimum depth 

of 3 /16” (10mm) and maximum depth of ¾” (19mm). 

• The materials should be corrosion and rot resistant. 

• Unless otherwise designed to manage moisture vapor, the 

system should be vapor open. 

• If rainscreen space is created with a material other than 

solid strapping/ furring attached directly to framing, the 

following must be considered. Lath fasteners must be 

capable of supporting the weight of the finished wall 

cladding system considering the unsupported/cantilevered 

portion of fastener that is equal to the thickness of the 

rainscreen materials. 

Overhead Application 

Overhead, horizontal or sloped applications are not included 

in our building code evaluation reports or acceptances. 

These applications often require special approval/ 

inspections by local building code inspectors. Contact 

your architect or engineer for assistance designing these 

installations. 

Installation Over Thick Foam 

Installation over foam board thicker than 1 ⁄2” may require 

special fasteners. Consult your architect or engineer for 

assistance designing a thick foam installation. 

Capping Off the Exposed Top of Exterior Walls 

To achieve a finished architectural look on horizontal or 

sloping top areas of exterior walls, piers, retaining walls or 

8 

other surfaces, Cultured Stone ® Capstones or a pouredin-place 

concrete cap must be used to provide adequate 

run-off protection to the wall areas. Caps should extend 

approximately 1”–2” beyond the finished stone surface. 

Cultured Stone ® corner pieces, flat pieces, or 

hearthstones should not be used to cap walls. 

Retaining Walls. All retaining walls must be waterproofed 

at the fill side. Wall construction should incorporate proper 

use of granular backfill and provisions for good drainage. 

A continuous longitudinal drain along the back of the wall 

set in drain rock is recommended. 

Chimney Cap 

All chimney chases must be capped with a one-piece cap 

that extends 1”–2” beyond the finished stone surface to 

prevent water from entering the wall system. Chimney or 

chase construction should incorporate proper flashing. 

cultured stone ® 50-year limited Warranty 

Cultured Stone ® products are covered for a period of 50 

years from the date of purchase when used on a structure 

which conforms to local building codes and when installed 

in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Cultured 

Stone ® will repair or provide, free of charge, new materials 

to replace any determined to be defective pursuant to 

our express limited warranty. This warranty is limited to 

the original purchaser and may not be transferred to any 

subsequent owner. 

This warranty does not cover damage resulting from: 

• Settlement of the building or other wall movement 

• Contact with chemicals or paint 

• Discoloration due to airborne contaminants 

• Staining or oxidation 

Our warranty does not cover labor costs incurred in removal 

and replacement of defective products. For complete details 

of our Cultured Stone ® 50-year limited warranty please visit 

our website at www.culturedstone.com. Hearthstones are 

not warranted for use on the ground or as a surface area 

subject to foot traffic. 

codE comPliancE Evaluation and listings 

ICC-ES ESR-1364. Tested or listed by Underwriters 

Laboratories, Inc., HUD Materials Release 

No.1316, Texas Dept. of Insurance Product Evaluation 

EC-21. 

ICC-Evaluation 

Service ES ESR -1364 

Underwriters 

Laboratories 

✓ Recycled content 

Minimum of 54 percent recycled content on all 

Cultured Stone® veneer products. 

The GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified mark is a registered certification 

mark used under license through the GREENGUARD Envronmental Institute.

Build something great with Boral 

Roof tiles 

Roof Accessories 

Bricks 

Pavers 

Stone 

Explore the product range online 

www.boralna.com 

Pub. No. 62433-E. Printed in U.S.A. June 2012. 

©2012 Boral Stone Products LLC 

To learn more about Cultured Stone ® products 

visit www.culturedstone.com 

or call 1-800-255-1727

Cultured Stone® Installation Instructions.

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