Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
So, you’ve got the questions, and hopefully we’ve got the answers!
We appreciate you’re taking the time to learn more about how our products can fit into your project, and we hope you’ll find what you’re looking for right here.
If not, please click here to view our contact details and submit your inquiry online or phone 0800-000-094 now.
1. I’ve never heard of “stone veneer / stone overlay”. Is this a new product?
Actually, this product has been around for several decades.
Despite this fact, it is surprising just how few people—even builders—realize that this product exists and that it makes a wonderful alternative to full size rock.
It can be used in just about any sort of building project—commercial / residential, new construction / remodeling, interior / exterior, and landscaping.
2. What are some of the more common uses for stone veneer?
Most people use it to enhance the exterior appearance of their home, office, or commercial building.
But we provide stone for a lot of other kinds of projects too, like interior fireplaces, interior bar fronts, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, wine cellars, and so forth.
3. Why is Authentic Stone a good option?
Just about everybody loves the look of natural stone. But full size stone is extremely heavy (you will need very strong foundations to hold the stone), expensive, and time consuming to build with.
Our stone gets around all of these limitations and is supplied NZ wide.
4. What form does the finished product take do I get individual stones or is it pre-formed into some sort of panel?
Some of our stone styles are delivered as individual stones where you choose the laying style and adhere each flat backed stone.
Authentic Stone also supply ‘Z’ shaped modules which have multiple stone glued together that get adhered to your wall in 1 go, you start at the bottom and just stack them and overlap the “Z” tabs both on flat walls and corners.
These are ideal for DIY install.
The only difference to full size rock, is that our stone features a flat back surface that simplifies installation, speeds up installation and reduces install time…… and therefore cost.
5. Where can I go to see how your stone is being used?
We suggest that your first stop should be to contact us so we can discuss your project and how you are planning to create your stone feature. You can also visit our head office showroom in Te Puke where you can see the full range of stone on display and photos of projects we’ve done.
Please have handy any items that you’ve already selected for your project, such as brick, tile, timber, paint selection, and so forth.
We can help you identify the stone styles that will best complement your selected project materials.
If you have photos of stone projects that you like, bring them in as well so we can help you find a close match.
6. How long does it take to install?
Authentic Stone install is as fast as stone can get. Individual patterns can be laid by a competent stone installer / tradesmen can exceed 3 -5 square meters in a day.
Modular patterns can double this amount on most jobs. Columns and intricate work with a lot of cutting or intricate details can however slow this.
However for most Installations our installers are able to complete the job quickly with very little waste and mess. You will be surprised how quick and easy it is!
7. Can Authentic Stone be installed to a concrete block wall?
Certainly. We have completed many applications to concrete block walls. this is great for landscape or decorative projects.
Once the concrete blocks are firmly set in place, the application adhesive is spread over the stone module then firmly placed straight onto the concrete block’s side.
Repeat the same procedure until the wall / application is complete.
If using this over habitable areas there is a different install method so please contact us first.
8. How far out from the substrate does the completed stone surface extend?
Our stones veneer is on average 40mm, it ranges from 35mm – 50mm and is dependant on stone style.
By the time you get the mortar, and the stones attached, the total thickness of the completed stone surface is about 40mm to 80mm deep, depending on the pattern chosen.
9. Can Authentic Stone be used as a water feature?
Authentic Stone can be used on a water feature but it will need to be sealed first, please contact us or more advice on this.
10. Are there any special maintenance requirements?
No, you would maintain them the same way you maintain brick or stone, with an occasional wash to remove surface dust and debris.
Please ready our maintenance instructions and warranty details.
Natural aging will take place, developing a more distinguished look over time.
11. Can I use your products on wall areas adjacent to swimming pools?
Our products will hold up at least as well as any other natural stone product.
If you wish to use our products in this type of application, we recommend that you apply a good stone sealer to the finished surface as stone is pourous.
It is recommended that harsh chemicals(chlorine etc.) are kept away.
12. Do I need extra corners when I am using an interlocking stone?
No, the interlocking stone is made to suit your easy installation requirements!
Meaning that the interlocking stone stylessupplied in a ‘Z’ shape, therefore interlock together from each direction when applying to corners on a pillar or wall. This has eliminated the need for extra corner pieces, reducing cost and time to install.