FAQs

Stone

How do I estimate stone or brick quantities for my job?

Estimating Stone & Brick Quantities Needed

Two components, flats and corners, are used for most installations. Flats are applied to the flat wall surface and are ordered in square feet. Corners are applied to outside corners and are ordered in linear feet. Wrapping the corner of walls, as well as Using corners around window and door openings, provides added dimension and depth and enhances the finished design.

Step 1: Determine the total project square footage.
Multiply the length (in feet) times the height (in feet) of each surface area to be covered.

Step 2: Subtract windows, doors or other openings.
Calculate the square footage occupied by windows, doors and other openings. Subtract this amount from the project square footage.

Step 3: Determine the linear footage of corner pieces needed.
Measure the linear feet of outside corner areas to be covered including any doorways and windows that will have corners.

Step 4: Determine the square footage of flat pieces required.
Divide the linear footage of corner pieces needed by 2 (One linear foot of corner veneer equals approximately 0.5 square foot of flat veneer) and subtract this corner square footage from the total project square footage. This will give you the square footage of flat veneer required.

Note: We recommend adding 10%-15% to your final quantities of flats and corners for best fitting, including cutting and trimming.

Can stone or brick be directly applied to the cabinets?

All Eldorado Outdoor cabinets come with a factory installed scratch coat, eliminating the need for additional surface preparation. Stone and brick can be installed as soon as the cabinets have been set.

What kind of wind-load testing has been applied to Eldorado Stone veneer?

Eldorado Stone has tested grouted and dry-stacked applications in accordance with: ASTM E330, Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference (Modified). Wall samples were subjected to positive and negative structural load tests at 57.6 psf (150 mph wind speed) and 60 psf (153 mph wind speed) pressure differentials. After completion of each load a visual inspection revealed no visible damage or cracking.

What is the fire rating of Eldorado Stone?

Eldorado Stone has been tested for fire hazard and shows zero flame spread and zero smoke developed. Since Eldorado Stone is non-combustible there is no fire rating.

Does Eldorado Stone need a ledge detail at the bottom for structural support or can it hang freely?

No footings or support ledges are needed. The product is an adhered veneer and is supported on the wall by the bond of the mortar to the stone and scratch coat.

What is the installed weight?

The installed weight will vary depending upon the profile chosen and the mortar, grout technique, lath and lath accessories used. Eldorado Stone can weigh up to 15 lb. per square foot. If a specific weight is needed for a project we recommend having an engineer evaluate the system.

What is the R-value of Eldorado Stone?

Thermal resistance is tested in accordance with ASTM C177. R value: 0.62 (ft2-F-hr)/BTU at 1.5″ thickness. For all of the technical information for our products please download the Technical Data Sheet.

What’s the thickness from the substrate to surface of the stone?

This dimension will vary based on the stone profile and the installer. On average, there should be approximately an additional 0.5″-1″ of mortar thickness behind the stone. For example, if your stone profile is 2″ thick, you can expect the total thickness from the substrate to the face of the stone to be approximately 2.5″ -3″ thick.

How thick are the stones?

Our product ranges from roughly 0.5″ to 3.5″ depending on the profile. You can download our stone dimensions by profile in the Downloads section of the website.

Is Eldorado Stone® combustible?

No. Eldorado Stone’s listing by Underwriter’s Laboratories shows zero fuel contributed and zero smoke developed. It can be installed as a façade to fireplaces and behind stoves. It is recommended the product is at least 18″ away from any direct flame to prevent discoloration of the stone

Brick

Can stone or brick be directly applied to the cabinets?

All Eldorado Outdoor cabinets come with a factory installed scratch coat, eliminating the need for additional surface preparation. Stone and brick can be installed as soon as the cabinets have been set.

What kind of wind-load testing has been applied to Eldorado Stone veneer?

Eldorado Stone has tested grouted and dry-stacked applications in accordance with: ASTM E330, Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference (Modified). Wall samples were subjected to positive and negative structural load tests at 57.6 psf (150 mph wind speed) and 60 psf (153 mph wind speed) pressure differentials. After completion of each load a visual inspection revealed no visible damage or cracking.

What is the fire rating of Eldorado Stone?

Eldorado Stone has been tested for fire hazard and shows zero flame spread and zero smoke developed. Since Eldorado Stone is non-combustible there is no fire rating.

Does Eldorado Stone need a ledge detail at the bottom for structural support or can it hang freely?

No footings or support ledges are needed. The product is an adhered veneer and is supported on the wall by the bond of the mortar to the stone and scratch coat.

What is the installed weight?

The installed weight will vary depending upon the profile chosen and the mortar, grout technique, lath and lath accessories used. Eldorado Stone can weigh up to 15 lb. per square foot. If a specific weight is needed for a project we recommend having an engineer evaluate the system.

What is the R-value of Eldorado Stone?

Thermal resistance is tested in accordance with ASTM C177. R value: 0.62 (ft2-F-hr)/BTU at 1.5″ thickness. For all of the technical information for our products please download the Technical Data Sheet.

What’s the thickness from the substrate to surface of the stone?

This dimension will vary based on the stone profile and the installer. On average, there should be approximately an additional 0.5″-1″ of mortar thickness behind the stone. For example, if your stone profile is 2″ thick, you can expect the total thickness from the substrate to the face of the stone to be approximately 2.5″ -3″ thick.

How thick are the stones?

Our product ranges from roughly 0.5″ to 3.5″ depending on the profile. You can download our stone dimensions by profile in the Downloads section of the website.

Is Eldorado Stone® combustible?

No. Eldorado Stone’s listing by Underwriter’s Laboratories shows zero fuel contributed and zero smoke developed. It can be installed as a façade to fireplaces and behind stoves. It is recommended the product is at least 18″ away from any direct flame to prevent discoloration of the stone

How much does Eldorado Stone weigh?

Our stone weighs approximately 10-12 lbs. per square foot. Eldorado Stone qualifies as an adhered veneer because it weighs less than 15 lbs. per square foot.

Installation

How are backsplash cantilever pieces installed?

Cantilever and edge details can be installed by leveling, bolting and gluing directly to the cabinets.

Does Eldorado Stone need a ledge detail at the bottom for structural support or can it hang freely?

No footings or support ledges are needed. The product is an adhered veneer and is supported on the wall by the bond of the mortar to the stone and scratch coat.

What measures should be taken for applications over 30 feet?

Eldorado Stone can be installed on any structurally sound surface. For all applications up to 30′ in height we recommend following our Installation Procedures. Unless special construction techniques accommodates differential movement — which is approved by a code official — there is a 30′ height limit for installations over wood-frame construction. For installations over non wood-framed sheathing (e.g., steel studs, concrete walls, etc.) there’s no specific height limitation. However, Eldorado Stone recommends that you consult with a building code official regarding any project exceeding 30′ in height.

What measures should be taken for hot /cold weather installations?

For cold weather installations ambient temperature should be 40ºF or higher at the time Eldorado Stone veneer is applied. If the temperature is below 40ºF, mortar should be heated between 40ºF – 120ºF (not to exceed 140ºF). Any mortar that freezes should be discarded. Wall surfaces may need to be covered and heated after installation of veneer to avoid freezing the mortar. See section 2104.3 of the International Building Code (IBC) for additional cold weather requirements. Applications in hot weather conditions should follow the requirements in section 2104.4 of the IBC. Mortar should be kept under 120ºF and be used within 2 hours of initial mixing.

Can we install Eldorado Stone around a fireplace?

Eldorado Stone can be installed around a fireplace. The veneer has to be a minimum of 18″ from any open flame. Download the Installation Procedures PDF from www.Eldoradostone.com for more detailed information.

Should I use a rainscreen drainage plane system?

Eldorado Stone veneer does not require the use of a rainscreen drainage plane system for all applications. However, some building codes now require the use of rainscreen drainage plane systems behind cladding materials such as manufactured veneer. If you are installing veneer in these areas, or wish to provide additional protection against entrapped moisture, please refer to the NCMA Installation Guide or our Supplemental Installation Guide for more detailed information.

What kind of weather resistive barrier (WRB) can I use?

It is recommended to use two separate layers of WRB in all applications where WRB is specified. The WRB must meet the requirements of ICC-ES AC 38 “Acceptance Criteria for Water-Resistive Barriers”. When using Grade D paper, a 60 minute rating is recommended. Felt paper must be clearly marked that it meets the requirements of ASTM D 226 for #15 or #30 asphalt saturated felt.* It is acceptable to use one layer of house wrap covered by a second layer of WRB meeting the requirements above. The WRB should be free of tears or holes.

It is acceptable to use one layer of WRB on interior applications. Felt meeting ASTM D 4869 or non-AST M #15 felt is not recommended for use behind veneer.

What is Eldorado Stone’s recommendation regarding flashing around windows and doors?

To maintain the weather-resistance of the exterior wall on which the stone products are installed, a rigid, corrosion-resistant flashing — and a means of drainage — should be installed at all penetrations and terminations of the veneer cladding. Flashing type and locations shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable code.

See our installation guidelines for transition details and other helpful information regarding transitions.

How do I install Eldorado Stone® when there is an expansion joint?

Treat each section as a “separate” installation. Do not span movement joints with the veneer.

Does Eldorado Stone require movement joints?

Expansion joints normally pass completely through a wall. Control joints normally are on the surface of the wall and relieve strain on the skin of the wall. Terminate the veneer installation where control and expansion joints occur in the substrate. Do not span these joints with veneer because this will lead to cracking. Expansion joints in a building must be specified by the architect or engineer. The architect or engineer should consider the ASTM C 1063 control joint requirements when determining the location of control joints on any structure. Normally the weakest point on a wall is immediately above and below penetrations.

Care and Maintenance

Where can I learn more about Eldorado Stone?

You’re in the right place! Peruse our website and then visit your local Distributor to see the product in person. If you’re a professional and you want an Architectural Representative to pay you a visit, contact 800.925.1491. If you’re looking for inspiration, visit the INSPIRE section and find out what really makes Eldorado Stone The Most Believable Architectural Stone Veneer in the World™.

What about protection against graffiti?

In many areas, Eldorado Stone is considered a protection against graffiti. The color blends and uneven textures are not the best canvas for graffiti “artists”. However, if you should choose to use an anti-graffiti coating please speak directly to the manufacturer of the anti-graffiti coating product and ask your contractor to submit a test prior to installation. There are urethane and wax-based sealers that can damage the surface or cause it to “yellow”. Other sealers may encourage additional efflorescence on the stone’s surface. No type of coating should be applied until the stone has been on the wall for at least 14 to 28 days.

Can I seal Eldorado Stone?

It is not required to seal Eldorado Stone. However, a sealer like CraftShield will provide added protection and will usually be easier to clean if the surface becomes dirty. CraftShield is a silane and siloxane-based penetrating, breathable masonry sealer which will not change the look of your stone.

How do I clean efflorescence?

When efflorescence occurs, as it does with many masonry products, it is the usually the result of moisture migration through the masonry substrate. Once the moisture is on the masonry surface, it evaporates, depositing dissolved salts in the form of efflorescence. Efflorescence naturally disappears over time as long as the moisture source is controlled or eliminated. If the stain will not wash off, do not apply chemicals or cleaners to the stone. Call Eldorado customer service to discuss optional solutions.

How do I clean Eldorado Stone®?

To clean dirt or other particles first try a simple soft bristle brush. If necessary use a solution of mild detergent with water and scrub the surface with a soft bristle brush. Rinse with clean water to remove any cleaning solution that might remain on the surface. If the stone has a white stain deposit (efflorescence) please contact Customer Service at 800.925.1491 for recommendations. Never use wire brushes, acid cleaners, power washers, bleach, paint remover or any other type of concrete cleaner.

What happens if Eldorado Stone is damaged?

Small chips and cracks can be repaired using our Color Touch-Up Kit which includes easy-to-follow instructions. These kits are available from Customer Service at 800.925.1491. Touch-Up Kits are not made for coloring aggregate exposed by cutting stones. The best installers will bury cuts into transitions and/or hide them with mortar when grouting.

General Information

Where can I find knowledgeable masons?

Your local Eldorado Stone distributor can recommend local masons that are familiar with Eldorado Stone products and installation. Visit the Where To Buy section to search for locations by your zip code.

Does Eldorado Stone meet building code requirements?

Eldorado Stone complies with all applicable Building Code requirements. For all the technical information on our products, visit our Downloads section.

Where can I buy Eldorado stone?

Eldorado Stone is sold by more than 1,000 authorized distributors throughout the U.S. and Canada. Visit the Where To Buy section to search for locations by your zip code.

How important is a good stone installation?

As with any building material, the beauty of that product is greatly enhanced by how well it is installed. With Eldorado Stone, careful consideration regarding the type of profile and color selected, the actual installed stone “pattern”, and the type of grout technique used, are all very important factors to regard. It is always best to create a mock up board with the desired aesthetic appeal prior to installation on your project. For more information and helpful tips, visit How To Install or Stone Grout Techniques.

Will Eldorado Stone fade?

The base color is blended throughout and permanent mineral oxide pigments are applied and absorbed when the veneer is cast. Color becomes an integral part of the veneer and, similar to natural stone, there are minimal noticeable color changes after years of weathering.

How does Eldorado Stone® withstand freeze / thaw cycles?

Eldorado Stone products are tested for freeze/thaw durability. As with any installation, making sure to incorporate good building practices that include proper flashing and water diversion techniques will help ensure a successful installation.

What are the benefits of using manufactured stone?

Installed, manufactured stone is approximately 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of natural stone. Its light weight properties eliminate the need for wall ties or footings. Manufactured stone has a 2% (approximately) waste factor versus 10% or more for natural stone.

What is the difference between manufactured stone veneer and natural stone?

Manufactured stone veneer is cast from molds of real stone which makes it lighter than natural stone. Natural stone may require wall ties and footings, which, in turn, can increase installation cost and difficulty. Eldorado’s architectural stone veneer is lighter weight, designed to adhere easily to a variety of structurally sound surfaces, and is capable of installations that would normally be very difficult and costly to achieve with natural stone.

Why is Eldorado Stone® considered the most believable architectural stone veneer in the world™?

Believability. It’s the most important ingredient of Eldorado Stone and the most compelling reason why so many architects, builders and homeowners choose Eldorado Stone for their manufactured stone veneer. Eldorado’s distinct process handcrafts molds and creates the natural color palettes that capture all the nuances of natural stone. The warmth and richness of Eldorado Stone creates unique spaces of permanence, romance and beauty; inside and out. The Most Believable Architectural Stone Veneer in the World™.

Where can I learn more about Eldorado Stone?

You’re in the right place! Peruse our website and then visit your local Distributor to see the product in person. If you’re a professional and you want an Architectural Representative to pay you a visit, contact 800.925.1491. If you’re looking for inspiration, visit the INSPIRE section and find out what really makes Eldorado Stone The Most Believable Architectural Stone Veneer in the World™.

Technical

What kind of wind-load testing has been applied to Eldorado Stone veneer?

Eldorado Stone has tested grouted and dry-stacked applications in accordance with: ASTM E330, Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference (Modified). Wall samples were subjected to positive and negative structural load tests at 57.6 psf (150 mph wind speed) and 60 psf (153 mph wind speed) pressure differentials. After completion of each load a visual inspection revealed no visible damage or cracking.

What is the fire rating of Eldorado Stone?

Eldorado Stone has been tested for fire hazard and shows zero flame spread and zero smoke developed. Since Eldorado Stone is non-combustible there is no fire rating.

Does Eldorado Stone need a ledge detail at the bottom for structural support or can it hang freely?

No footings or support ledges are needed. The product is an adhered veneer and is supported on the wall by the bond of the mortar to the stone and scratch coat.

What is the installed weight?

The installed weight will vary depending upon the profile chosen and the mortar, grout technique, lath and lath accessories used. Eldorado Stone can weigh up to 15 lb. per square foot. If a specific weight is needed for a project we recommend having an engineer evaluate the system.

What is the R-value of Eldorado Stone?

Thermal resistance is tested in accordance with ASTM C177. R value: 0.62 (ft2-F-hr)/BTU at 1.5″ thickness. For all of the technical information for our products please download the Technical Data Sheet.

What’s the thickness from the substrate to surface of the stone?

This dimension will vary based on the stone profile and the installer. On average, there should be approximately an additional 0.5″-1″ of mortar thickness behind the stone. For example, if your stone profile is 2″ thick, you can expect the total thickness from the substrate to the face of the stone to be approximately 2.5″ -3″ thick.

How thick are the stones?

Our product ranges from roughly 0.5″ to 3.5″ depending on the profile. You can download our stone dimensions by profile in the Downloads section of the website.

Is Eldorado Stone® combustible?

No. Eldorado Stone’s listing by Underwriter’s Laboratories shows zero fuel contributed and zero smoke developed. It can be installed as a façade to fireplaces and behind stoves. It is recommended the product is at least 18″ away from any direct flame to prevent discoloration of the stone

How much does Eldorado Stone weigh?

Our stone weighs approximately 10-12 lbs. per square foot. Eldorado Stone qualifies as an adhered veneer because it weighs less than 15 lbs. per square foot.

Should I use a rainscreen drainage plane system?

Eldorado Stone veneer does not require the use of a rainscreen drainage plane system for all applications. However, some building codes now require the use of rainscreen drainage plane systems behind cladding materials such as manufactured veneer. If you are installing veneer in these areas, or wish to provide additional protection against entrapped moisture, please refer to the NCMA Installation Guide or our Supplemental Installation Guide for more detailed information.