Month: December 2023

chain link fence

Chain Link Fence

Eric Burt

Chain link fence is one of the most cost-effective fencing options. It can last decades and requires minimal maintenance.

The chain-link fence is made of a metal mesh fabric and galvanized framework. It can be coated in vinyl or powder coat to create a unique look.

chain link fence

Installation is relatively easy for a homeowner with basic tools unless the fence needs to be stretched and anchored, which can require a fence stretcher or come-along.

Chain link fences are a cost-effective way to secure your property. They also require little maintenance and are relatively easy to repair. For this reason, they are popular with homeowners who want to enclose their backyards and swimming pools. In addition, chain link fencing meets most building codes for pool enclosures. For commercial and industrial properties, they can offer a level of visibility that helps with supervision and monitoring activities.

Standard chain-link fences come in a variety of heights that range from three feet to 20 feet. They can be installed in a variety of configurations to meet your security needs, and most manufacturers offer custom sizes as well. The fence fabric, or mesh, can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, PVC, and stainless steel. The type of material used determines how durable the fence will be. For example, a galvanized fence is less likely to rust, but it may not hold up as well in harsh environments.

A popular feature of these fences is their ability to be customized with privacy slats. These slats are typically made from PVC or aluminum, and they can be installed vertically within the diamond-shaped gaps of traditional chain-link fences. This makes them more aesthetically pleasing while still allowing light and air to pass through the chain-link fence.

Another option is to use a vinyl or powder coating to cover the galvanized chain-link fence frame. This will give the fence a different look and help to protect the metal from corrosion. Some companies even offer aluminized coatings that are specifically designed to stand up better against road salt and other chemicals that can cause the galvanized finish to wear down more quickly.

If you’re concerned that someone might cut the top rail or drive a vehicle under the gate opening (which is usually 10-feet wide and can accommodate most cars), you can have your installer add closer line posts to the terminal posts. This will make it much more difficult to get under the fence and will prevent people from using vehicles to scale the structure.

Chain link fences have earned a reputation for their durability and security, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be beautiful. With innovative design options, like color-coated fencing, privacy slats, decorative inserts, customized gates, landscaping integration, and lighting effects, you can elevate your chain link fence to a stunning visual element that enhances the overall ambiance of your property.

While most chain-link fences are made from galvanized steel, they can be painted to match the aesthetic of your home or landscaping features. White or black paint offers a sleek, modern look that can complement any outdoor space. Earthy tones such as forest green or warm brown can blend in with natural themes, while vibrant colors like red can create a striking focal point.

Depending on your needs, you can also customize the size of the mesh in your fence. Larger meshes offer better visibility and greater strength, while smaller meshes provide increased privacy by limiting what can pass through the openings. For a more seamless look, you can even add reed screens or bamboo screens to your chain link fence for a more private feel.

One of the most simple ways to improve the appearance of your chain-link fence is by planting flowers or greenery along its sides. This will not only soften the harsh appearance of the fence, but it will also add color and fragrance to your garden. For a more dramatic effect, you can grow vines over your fence to create a wall of greenery. Some fast-growing vines, such as confederate jasmine, can quickly cover a chain-link fence.

Keep in mind, however, that it’s important to check with local authorities before making any modifications or additions to your fence. Many cities and municipalities have strict rules about fence height, material, and design, and failure to comply can result in fines. Keeping abreast of the latest innovations in chain-link fence designs allows contractors to better serve their customers and build trust. It also gives them new avenues to pitch creative solutions to their clients, and redefine what’s possible with this durable and reliable fencing material.

Chain link fences are sturdy and reliable barriers that provide an excellent level of security and privacy. They’re commonly used to create boundaries for playgrounds, pools, and recreational areas at parks and other public spaces. They help prevent unauthorized entry into protected spaces, while maintaining visibility and creating a welcoming ambiance for visitors. To maximize these benefits, you can select from a wide range of heights and mesh sizes. Choosing a smaller mesh size will minimize visibility, while a larger one can increase visibility and security.

A woven chain-link fence that features a high-density polyethylene screen is another option for privacy-minded customers. It is not only more affordable than a slatted fence, but it’s also durable and highly customizable. The screen can be painted to match your home’s aesthetic, and it’s available in multiple colors. It’s also water-, wind-, and UV-permeable. It’s a good choice for commercial or residential applications, and it comes with a 7-year manufacturer warranty.

The simplest way to add privacy to your chain-link fence is by covering it with a privacy screen. These can be purchased online and are designed to fit a standard chain-link fence. They are quick and easy to install, and they can achieve up to 70% visual coverage. However, they do require a bit of maintenance, as the screens are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather elements.

Another great option is to cover your fence with vines or hedges. They can add visual interest to your property and increase its value, but they may take a while to grow and fully cover the fence. If you’re not comfortable taking on the responsibility of caring for the plants, you can hire a landscaping company to do it for you.

You can also add reed or bamboo screens to your chain-link fence. These will require a bit more maintenance than a vine or hedge, but they offer an excellent amount of privacy and visual coverage. You can even use them to create a unique design or pattern for your fence, making it an interesting focal point in your backyard.

Whether you are looking to protect your business or your home, a fence is an important investment. A chain link fence offers a level of security that is cost-effective and durable. It is also resistant to rust, making it an ideal fencing option for both commercial and residential properties.

A chain link fence is composed of a steel mesh fabric that is bent and interlocked to create a sturdy barrier. Different gauges of wire are used to create varying degrees of strength. These materials are then galvanized to ensure durability. This type of fence is also known as a cyclone or hurricane fence due to its ability to protect property in a strong storm.

The framework of a chain link fence is made up of steel tubing that functions as posts. This frame is then filled with concrete to provide support. The tension rods that are used to hold the chain link fabric in place are then attached to the posts. Some chain link fences require brace bands to help keep the tension bars in place. These can be placed at the end or corner posts.

When the metal of a chain link fence is exposed to direct sunlight or harsh weather conditions, it can rust over time. To prevent this, it is essential to paint the fence with a protective coating. Polymer and PVC coatings are becoming increasingly popular because of their ability to protect the fence against rust and other elements.

Maintenance of a chain link fence can be relatively easy. A hose down every now and then can often do the trick. This helps to keep the fence clean and free of debris like bird poop and caked-on mud.

In addition to removing any growth of plants or trees, it is important to make repairs as needed. Vines and other plant growth can cause the connections of a chain link fence to wear out. These connections can also loosen and pull away from the posts. If this happens, it is best to call a professional for repairs as soon as possible.

dock construction

The Basics of Dock Construction

Joshua Copeland

Dock construction focuses on building structures for use in and around water. This may involve anything from piers to wharves to floating docks.

Many people choose to construct their docks as a way of cutting costs. The best docks are made from quality materials and built to withstand the elements. Click here to Learn More.

dock construction

The material a dock is made from carries the full load of the structure and should be chosen carefully to ensure its stability. Most docks are built on pilings, which transfer the structure’s weight to layers of earth and rock beneath it. This means that the choice of piles is crucial, as they will be subject to various stresses from stormy weather to day-to-day use.

Although traditionally made from natural wood, this isn’t the only material available for docks. Man-made materials like fiberglass offer a number of benefits over traditional wooden planking, such as the fact that they are resistant to rot, insect infestation and rust. Additionally, they don’t require staining or splinters and can withstand the Florida sun much more effectively than natural wood.

Concrete is another common option, as it’s often used for piers and jettys on commercial docks and marinas. It’s also durable and resistant to the impact of water, and unlike some other options it won’t degrade in a way that affects the quality of the surrounding waters.

Another alternative is to use aluminum, which is extremely lightweight but still offers excellent strength in relation to its weight. It’s not uncommon for marine contractors to use it on larger, heavy-load docks. It can even be used in conjunction with composites to create a more structurally sound dock.

Finally, some people choose to build their docks from a synthetic or plastic material. While these tend to cost more upfront than their natural or wood counterparts, they also don’t rot, rust or attract insects. They are also a great choice for those concerned about environmental sustainability, as they can be easily recycled at the end of their lifespan.

The most durable and stable docks are usually built from metals, such as steel, that can withstand a huge amount of pressure. They are often fastened using blind bolts, which allows them to be installed from a single side, minimizing the risk to workers who might otherwise face exposure during construction. They’re typically suited to commercial or marine docks that are expected to experience high levels of traffic and wear.

Whether a dock is made of wood or composite it will need to have the right design for the specific conditions where it will be built. Choosing the proper size dock for the property will help to ensure that it will accommodate watercrafts of all sizes and that it will be safe and convenient for boaters. A dock will also need to be able to cope with the effects of weather, waves and tidal currents. It is important to plan ahead when designing a dock to safeguard against future remodeling costs. This can be done by including knock out panels for future door expansions or using wheel risers to make it easier for smaller trucks to get up onto the dock. These small steps can save your customer money and time in the long run.

Choosing the right decking material for the dock is an important decision as well. While the de facto standard for a wood dock is Southern Yellow Pine it is not as durable or attractive as other options such as Ipe or tropical hardwoods. Depending on the environmental conditions and use of the dock it may be necessary to choose something more durable such as concrete.

It is always important to keep in mind that the laws of a particular jurisdiction may affect dock construction. In some areas permits are required and in others there are restrictions on the kinds of docks that can be constructed. It is also a good idea to check with local officials about whether any special planning or permit procedures are required for the location where the dock will be built.

In many cases it may be possible to find a dock designer that will incorporate the products and building process used by the company doing the dock installation. This will provide accurate visual representation and real-time estimates for the customer. This will shorten sales cycles and reduce the need for rework and revisions to the dock design.

Choosing the correct dock design for a particular location can be very difficult because different environments have their own unique demands. A floating dock for example would not work in an area that is prone to harsh winters and ice build-up because it won’t be able to remain stable. A fixed dock, on the other hand, can be anchored to the bottom of the lake or river bed making it less susceptible to changes in water level.

A dock is a structure built out into the water that enables vessels to berth. It can be constructed either on the shore or in open waters, depending on the nature of the property and the intended use of the dock. Some docks are used for commercial and industrial purposes, while others serve private waterfront owners. They can be constructed in lakes, rivers, ponds and the ocean, and can be freestanding or attached to the shore by a gangway.

Dock construction can be complex. Whether they are constructed of concrete or wood, these structures have to be able to resist high winds and other environmental factors, such as tidal currents and waves. They must also be able to accommodate the weight of the vessels that are berthed on them.

Depending on the location of the dock, water conditions and beach hazards or obstructions will influence its design. For example, if the dock is to be located on a sandy beach, it must be built with a strong base that can stand up to high tides and shifting water levels.

To avoid costly repairs, it is best to build a pier from a material that will not deteriorate in contact with water. The most common choice is concrete, but some people prefer to use wood, especially if it has been treated to resist the effects of the water. However, wooden pilings are vulnerable to rot, which can be a major issue for dock construction.

The first step in dock construction is to prepare the site of the pier. This involves clearing the area and laying a foundation of concrete or stones. The concrete foundation needs to be a minimum of four feet thick, and it should also be reinforced with steel bars. The next step is to install the decking of the pier, and it should be spaced evenly across the length of the dock. The decking is typically made of wood, but it can also be made of composite or concrete.

Once the decking has been installed, it is time to start assembling the rest of the dock. It is a good idea to assemble as much of the dock on land as possible, since this will make it easier to transport and set in place. For example, it is easier to handle brackets and posts when they are not in the water. It is also easier to level the components while they are still on land.

If you own a dock, it will need regular maintenance. Wood is susceptible to discoloration and deterioration over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight and water. It is best to inspect your dock on a regular basis and fix any damage as soon as it occurs to avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future. A small problem like a rotting board or nail that sticks out is a simple repair, but if the foundation of your dock is starting to degrade, it may be time for a complete replacement.

Inspect the wood sections of your dock for rot and decay, and splinters. It is important to regularly clean your dock and apply a waterproof sealant. It is recommended that you use a low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealant to minimize the environmental impact.

The most common type of waterfront structure is a dock, which can be categorized as either a quay wall, wharf, or pier. Quay walls are a retaining wall along the shore topped with a deck or platform that serve as a terminal for boats and cargo ships to load and unload passengers, freight, or fuel. Wharves are elongated structures that extend into the sea or lake for the purpose of loading and unloading vessels and equipment, and can be constructed in many sizes, styles, and materials.

Docks can also be used as a jumping off point for boats and other recreational watercrafts. They can be built from a variety of materials, including concrete, steel, and wood. In addition, docks can be equipped with a variety of amenities, such as shade structures, fishing platforms, and boat lifts.

A pile driver is a member of the maritime construction industry that installs pilings for docks, bridges, and tunnels, using hydraulic cranes to lift heavy timbers into place. Another member of this field is a dock builder, who may oversee the construction and installation of these water-based facilities.

Both pile drivers and dock builders receive classroom and hands-on training from state-of-the-art technical schools. They learn to operate and maintain a wide range of equipment and tools for marine construction. They are also trained to perform inspections of various kinds.

Dock Repair

How to Spot Common Dock Repair Issues Before They Get Out of Hand

Thelma Butler

Routine dock inspections can help you spot problems before they get out of hand. This article will outline some of the most common stationary boat dock repair issues that homeowners face throughout the season.Dock Repair

It is usual for your dock to experience wear and tear over time. However, knowing the difference between a fixable dock and one beyond Dock Repair can save you money and stress.

Structural integrity refers to the ability of a structure to support its own weight and resist breakage or bending. It is a critical engineering principle that ensures that a construction will perform its intended function without deformation or catastrophic failure throughout its expected lifetime. Engineers use techniques to identify structural weaknesses, assess the impact of damage, and develop effective repair solutions.

Many things can affect a dock’s structural integrity, including age, weather, and improper maintenance. However, regular inspections can help to minimize the amount of damage that a structure can sustain from an event like a storm.

It’s important to note that structural integrity refers to the ability of a construction to support its own weight and resist breakage, but it also takes into account whether or not the structure will be able to withstand catastrophic failure under extreme conditions. As such, removing bracing from structures often doesn’t lead to immediate catastrophic failure, but it does compromise the structural integrity of the structure.

The most common signs of deteriorating structural integrity are visible from the water, but some can only be detected by inspecting underneath the surface. For example, if your dock’s foundation is deteriorating to the point where it is in danger of collapsing with the slightest nudge, then you should consider total dock replacement rather than just repairing the damaged areas.

Additionally, metal parts of a dock will likely rust over time, especially if they are in contact with water. Although galvanized metal is designed to withstand humid conditions, it’s best to replace any rusted sections of your dock to maintain its structural integrity. This will also save you money in the long run as rusting can eventually weaken your entire dock’s foundation.

Cracks and Warps

Metal docks are especially vulnerable to the forces of nature, including waves, currents and changing temperatures. As a result, they can crack or warp over time. These problems may be a sign of structural damage and could require repair or replacement. If the cracks are on non-load bearing areas, it might be possible to repair them, but if they are on load-bearing supports, then the best and safest course of action is to replace the dock.

It’s also important to check for damage to the foundation. If a dock is permanently installed with pillars and underwater foundation support structures, it can be difficult to monitor their condition. If any of these are damaged, it’s important to have a professional come take a look as soon as possible. Foundation deterioration is very dangerous, and any cracking must be investigated to make sure that it isn’t an early warning sign of a collapsed foundation or other serious problems.

In addition to the major issues that can occur on a dock, it’s also important to keep an eye out for smaller problems like discolored wood or other signs of rot. It’s easy for these small problems to get worse if left untreated, and they can lead to a complete replacement of the dock.

Metal and water don’t mix well, so any metal fasteners on the dock should be checked regularly for corrosion. Even if they’re galvanized, there’s a good chance that over time they will rust and require replacement. These fasteners include screws, bolts, rivets, studs and anchors. They are designed to help connect or assemble parts together, but they can become loose and break off. It’s important to identify and repair any problem with these fasteners before it becomes a safety issue or leads to complete dock replacement.

Wood Rot

Wood rot is one of the most common problems that can send a dock tumbling into the water. It can lead to deteriorated support posts and beams, rotting floor and ceiling joists, and destroyed roof decking. In many cases, it’s impossible to save a dock once the foundation starts to go rotten. This is a sign that it’s time for a total dock replacement.

Luckily, it is easy to prevent rot in docks by keeping wood surfaces clean and treating them with fungicide. You should also make sure that the dock is regularly inspected, and any areas of rot are addressed immediately. If left unchecked, the fungus can spread to other parts of the dock, leading to expensive and dangerous repairs or even full replacement.

Rust can also be a big problem for boat docks, especially those made from metal. This is because the constant contact with water can cause them to rust quickly. The best way to fix this is to regularly check the dock for any rust spots and remove them as soon as possible. If the rust starts to spread, it’s better to replace the metal part instead of trying to repair it. In this case, a new aluminum dock might be a good option.

Another common sign that a dock needs repair is when it starts making creaking sounds. This can be caused by rotting wood that is rubbing together, loose screws, or other structural issues. This is a serious problem that should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible. If the rattling continues, it may be necessary to replace the entire dock. This is because if the rattling becomes too much, it can cause people and boats to fall off the dock.

Reinforcement of Pilings

A dock provides a sturdy foundation on water and is essential for a range of functions. The structure enables loading and unloading of boats, cruise liners, and other watercraft. It also facilitates recreational activities and social gatherings. A well-designed and maintained dock adds value to property, and a regular inspection is necessary for identifying areas that require repairs or replacement.

During inspections, look for rotting areas and broken connections, such as corner, side, and brace brackets. Also check for loose planks and rusted hardware, all of which are signs that the dock needs to be repaired or replaced. You can prevent rusting by applying a protective stain to the dock, but it’s important that you use a non-corrosive cleaning solution. Avoid using pressure washers, which can chip away at the dock material and splinter wood.

Wood pilings are susceptible to rot and damage from boring marine organisms that want to gnaw on them or make their home there. Replacing a damaged piling is expensive and time-consuming. To reduce repair costs, you can install a new dock on concrete or fiberglass pilings.

Another option is to add a piling protection accessory, which can prevent these organisms from damaging your piles and protect the structure from rot. These accessories are available from a number of manufacturers and come in a variety of sizes. Some options include a piling jacket, which can be driven into the ground with the shell and reinforcement, and a skirt pin that creates a seal between the shell and the pile. Piling laminates can be prefabricated in a factory, reducing installation time on the job site. These products are also tested for strength, which makes them a more reliable choice than conventional piles.

Filling Cracks

Human error and heavy equipment can damage dock surfaces. Dock repair services often involve repairing chips and cracks in concrete loading dock ramps, restoring damaged sections, or even replacing the entire deck surface. This type of damage can create safety hazards for employees and vehicles. It can also result in loss of productivity. To prevent this from happening, it is important to train workers and enforce proper safety protocols to reduce the risk of accidents on the job.

Wood docks are prone to rot and rust, especially since they come into direct contact with water. Excessive rot or rust can cause structural damage that makes the dock unusable. If the problem is caught early, a simple fix is to replace the affected areas with new treated wood.

Another common problem is a deteriorating foundation. Foundation issues can make the dock unsafe to stand on and pose a major health and safety hazard for people and animals. Dock professionals will usually inspect the foundation of the dock with scuba or snorkel gear to ensure that all areas are intact.

It is also important to regularly clean the dock and apply a protective coating. Regular cleaning helps to remove dirt and debris that can damage the structure and prolong its life. This includes removing algae and cleaning stains with mild, environmentally-friendly soaps. It is also important to check for signs of deterioration such as warped planks, loose handrails, or broken hardware.

The most costly dock repairs usually involve fixing or replacing parts that have been damaged by water, sunlight, and heavy usage. It is a good idea to inspect the dock every few months to identify problems early and address them promptly. This can help to prevent serious and expensive damage in the future.

Concrete Stone Facing

Add Character to Your Home With Concrete Stone Facing

Samantha Valletta

Stonecrete veneer is a durable and affordable option to add character and charm to your home. It can be installed over clean concrete, masonry, and stucco walls.Concrete Stone Facing

To prepare for your project, make sure the wall is ready to accept stone. Then mix a mortar from 1 part type S masonry cement and 2.5 parts sand.

Stone is one of the heaviest and densest materials used in construction. It is also highly fire-resistant and has a natural durability that resists environmental damage, including fading over time. It is also relatively low-maintenance and requires only periodic repairs from a skilled mason. However, stone is more expensive as a material, and installation is labor intensive.

Manufactured Stone is a popular alternative to natural stone, but has its own set of limitations and problems. Like all concrete-based products, manufactured stone is susceptible to moisture damage if left untreated. It is therefore important to treat all manufactured stone veneer applications with a silane-based, non-film forming, breather-type masonry sealer. This will increase the durability of your project and help prevent water penetration and resulting mold growth.

In addition, it is a good idea to use a rainscreen system when installing stone veneer on your home. This will reduce the amount of rain and snow that can penetrate the walls, preventing moisture from damaging the stone, framing or siding of your home.

Another problem that can occur with some types of stone facing is Efflorescence, a white residue that appears on the surface of certain stones when they come into prolonged contact with moisture. It is caused by the release of salts from the cement in the mortar, and can be removed by washing with water and a mild detergent.

It is also possible to add color pigments to the mix for a variety of finishes. This will give you the ability to match your stone with the surrounding colors of your home, and allow for more customization in your finished product.

In addition to color options, there are different textures available for both natural and manufactured stone. Ledgestone, roughly rectangular and mosaic styles are available, as well as several color blends. To enhance the texture of your project, you can add a textured scratch coat. This will also improve the adhesion between your mortar and the stone.

Styles & Options

A wide variety of colors, textures and shapes can be created using concrete stone casting. This allows for the production of a realistic surface that closely mimics natural stone. This gives builders the opportunity to create a unique and custom facade for their projects that can fit any design style or taste. The color of the stones will not fade with time and they are resistant to weathering and damage.

Stone facing can be used to craft a visually striking accent wall, frame a fireplace or completely clad an exterior facade. It can also be used to add dimension to a space or craft decorative elements like columns, arches and door surrounds. In outdoor spaces, stone facing can be used to build fire pits, water features and statues that add interest to any landscape design.

Compared to traditional masonry methods, mortarless easy-to-install stone veneer offers significant cost savings. However, you will need to strike a balance between the quality of materials and cost for the best value. It is important to choose the right type of stone and installation method to ensure a long-lasting and beautiful result.

While manmade and stone veneer products are easier to install, they lack the durability and lifetime weather resistance of natural stone. Manufactured stone veneers are prone to chipping, which exposes the concrete interior. This can cause problems with moisture management. On the other hand, natural stone is more durable, can withstand high moisture content and performs better in freezing/thawing conditions.

When selecting a stone facing system, you can choose between two overarching categories: individualized systems or panelized systems. Individually fabricated stone veneers allow you to hide high visibility cuts and reuse scrap pieces that would otherwise be discarded in other alternatives. They also have good workability and can easily adapt to an uneven substrate. Panelized systems are a good choice for larger projects because they install faster and require fewer tools.

Regardless of the type of stone you select, you will need to develop a moisture management plan. Moisture causes Efflorescence, which is white powdery substance that appears on the surface of the stone. To prevent Efflorescence, you must use a waterproofing membrane on the substrate and install flashing around all doors and windows. You should also make sure your gutter and drainage system is properly channeling water away from your stone veneer application.

Low Maintenance

Retaining walls are multifunctional additions to landscapes with varying slopes and gradients. They help hold soil and plants in place to prevent erosion while enhancing the look of the property. Many homeowners choose concrete wall block faces to give the sophisticated and ageless appearance of natural stone but at a much more cost-effective price point than traditional quarried stone. To further enhance the look of these concrete structures, contractors can add stone veneer to create a visually stunning exterior cladding.

When properly installed, stone veneer offers a long lifespan and requires little maintenance to keep its beautiful appearance. Because it is a real stone product, stone facing is durable in harsh environments and resists scratching and fading over time. The materials used to create stone veneer are also naturally resistant to moisture and freeze/thaw cycles, so they can be used in climates that would damage other cladding products like vinyl and wood.

Natural stone is a green building product that can qualify projects for LEED credits. It’s made from materials that are 100% recyclable, and unlike manufactured stone, it has no added dyes or pigments that can fade with exposure to sunlight. Additionally, natural stone is four times more durable and emits two times less carbon emissions than manufactured masonry.

Before installing stone veneer, the installer should prepare the wall surface to ensure that it will adhere. This includes ensuring the concrete or concrete masonry substrate is free of dirt, waterproofing coatings, paint, form oil and has a rough texture to promote a mortar bond. The installer must also ensure the concrete is cured prior to installation.

If the masonry surface is not sufficiently cured, it may be necessary to install a drainage mat or furring strips prior to the installation of stone veneer. This will provide an air gap between the masonry and the veneer, and it can also serve to reduce the risk of water seepage through the stone face that could potentially compromise the integrity of the foundation.

Whether you’re constructing a new home or updating the appearance of an existing structure, stone veneer is an easy way to improve the curb appeal and value of your property. Using stone facing to craft an accent wall, frame a fireplace or clad the entire foundation facade can instantly elevate your property. If you’re considering adding stone to your next project, contact us for more information about our wide range of options.

Easy Installation

Many homeowners choose to install stone facing on their walls, pillars, and arches to add texture, warmth and style. They can be laid with tight-fitting mortar joints for a more traditional look or without joints to achieve a “dry-stacked” appearance. Stone and brick veneers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can complement any style home. They are also a great option for a fireplace accent wall to frame the focal point and create a dramatic statement.

The installation process is relatively simple and straightforward once the proper steps are taken to prepare the surface. Most importantly, the installer must ensure that the wall to which he or she is installing the stone veneer is plumb. This will expedite the veneering process and help produce a more polished finish.

It is a good practice to lay out all of the veneer stone flat prior to starting the project and blend stones from multiple crates or boxes to ensure a full range of color for an authentic appearance. Also, it is important to estimate material needs carefully. To determine how much stone is needed, begin by calculating the square footage of the area to be covered (length times height). Be sure to include the area of any windows or doors. Then subtract the number of lineal feet of corner pieces that will need coverage. Finally, be sure to allow for a small percentage of waste (5-10%).

Next, the installer must apply a weather resistant barrier such as tar paper to the surface to be veneered. He or she should overlap the barrier 4″ in shingle fashion and, where possible, wrap metal lath over the barrier to provide a minimum of 3/4″ penetration into the framing. The lath should then be fastened to the studs with galvanized nails or screws spaced 6″ on center and lapped at outside and inside corners.

After the weather barrier is installed, a thin layer of mortar should be applied to the back of each piece of stone to help hold it in place. This mortar should be tinted to match the stone for a more natural look. Some manufacturers also offer a pre-mixed polymer modified mortar that requires only the addition of water for mixing. This type of installation system is typically easier to use than a traditional mortar scratch coat and provides a more durable finished product.