Built to Endure: Exploring the All-Weather Strength and Longevity of Manufactured Stone Veneer

Words: Jeff Tew

Let's talk about something we all care deeply about: the longevity of our work. You and I both know the feeling of pride when we step back and look at a finished project. We're in the business of creating structures that not only look good but also stand strong against the test of time.

Let's kick things off by appreciating the engineering marvel that is MSV. This material isn't just designed to achieve the look of other cladding materials, such as natural stone, brick and wood; it’s engineered to match or exceed their performance in many ways, particularly wood or cement board. MSV withstands weather extremities, from scorching heat to bone-chilling cold, without losing its charm. It's like the superhero of claddings – it doesn't fade, crack, or chip easily. And the best part? It maintains its look for decades with minimal upkeep.

But here's the kicker – and you probably know where I'm going with this – all that resilience hinges on us. Because installation is key. A top-notch MSV application doesn't just happen; it's the result of our know-how and attention to detail. It’s up to us to prevent mistakes that could negatively impact the performance of the MSV system. That’s why we spend so much time reviewing manufacturers’ installation guides and building code requirements. So let's dive into what makes MSV such a high performer in the industry and how we can keep it that way.

Resiliency in the Face of Mother Nature
When it comes to weathering the elements, MSV is a force to be reckoned with. Leading manufacturers such as Eldorado Stone, Cultured Stone and Dutch Quality Stone have invested heavily in research and development to create products that can handle almost anything nature throws their way, with products that are designed to perform in a wide range of environments. From freezing temps, to intense humidity and powerful winds, these products have proven they're up for any number of challenges:

  • Cold Climates: In areas where winters are harsh and freeze-thaw cycles are a regular occurrence, MSV resists cracking and spalling. The lightweight concrete designed for use in high quality MSV products is made to resist damage caused by ice that wreaks havoc on lesser materials.

  • High Humidity: MSV is engineered for a certain level of water absorption, greater than natural stone or brick, which means it stays structurally sound even when the air is thick with moisture. As a concrete product, MSV also will not contribute to mold or mildew, and any indications can easily be cleaned.

  • High Winds: Like other masonry solutions, MSV can stand up to wind speeds that would send other cladding materials flying. For example, premium manufacturers such as Eldorado Stone and Cultured Stone meet and exceed rigorous wind testing like ASTM E330 and Florida’s HVHZ High Velocity Hurricane Zone requirements.

  • Fire Prone Areas: With a Class A fire rating, MSV offers peace of mind for those in wildfire-prone areas. MSV brands with a Class A fire rating demonstrate zero flame spread and zero smoke development, a key consideration for builders in these regions.

  • Extreme Heat: MSV helps keep interiors cool even when the outside environment feels like an oven. Premium products offer thermal resistance in accordance with ASTM C177, helping to improve energy efficiency in hot climates.


Best Practices for a Durable MSV Installation
We all know the drill: keep the site clean, brush off that mortar when it's just right, and for goodness' sake, pay special attention to proper overlaps, anchor length and anchor placement with the lath. And if you're in a particularly wet area, consider a water repellent – just make sure it doesn't change the look of your stone.

A well-installed MSV system is like a well-oiled machine – it just works better and lasts longer. Here are some best practices to nail the installation:



Pictured above: splashing from the roof runoff and rain can stain the stone and create more cleanup work.

  • Avoid Splash Staining: Use a temporary ground cover of straw or cardboard during construction to prevent soil from staining the stone when it rains until gutters and landscaping is in place.

  • Cleaning Post-Install: A soft-bristle brush and a mild detergent solution are all you need to clean the veneer after installation. Avoid harsh methods like power-washing, sandblasting or acid-based cleaners, as they can do more harm than good.

  • Mortar Management: Keep an eye on that mortar! Brush off excess Type S or Type N mortar when it's just right (usually within 30 minutes to an hour), and be extra careful with modified mortars because they're tougher to remove once they've set.

  • Protective Coatings: While not required, a breathable silane or siloxane-based protective treatment can help minimize water penetration and make the finished application easier to clean. Remember to never use the protective coating on the bondable surface, and test on a few pieces first to ensure it doesn’t alter the stone’s appearance.

  • Efflorescence Control: You've seen it, I've seen it – efflorescence. That white, chalky residue can be a real nuisance and an eyesore. But with the right materials (some MSV manufacturers incorporate additives to prevent salt migration) and smart water management (ensuring effective water diversion through flashing and capping), we can keep our MSV looking sharp.

Common Installation Mistakes That Impact Longevity
Of course, no one's perfect, and mistakes happen. But some are just too costly to make. Avoiding these mistakes from the outset ensures the longevity and performance of MSV, minimizing costly repairs and maintenance down the line:



Pictured above: the “Doughnut Method” uses insufficient bonding and leaves a potential void where water can collect.

  • The "Doughnut" Method: This technique, which involves applying the setting bed mortar in a ring around the back of the stone, is a no-go. It might seem like a good idea, but it actually creates a hollow void in the center of the bonding area that can trap water. The reduced bonded area of the back of the stone may only be 40-50 percent, leading to the potential for pop-offs.

  • Improper Clearance: Running MSV below grade may appear more realistic, but keeping it off the ground ensures proper clearance and is key to preventing moisture issues from wicking up the wall, reduces soil staining, and allows for termite inspection zones in appropriate regions. Most importantly, it prevents code violations.

  • Lath Overlaps: Get these wrong, and you're inviting cracks over time. Pay attention to the overlaps in the field of the wall and ensure a minimum 16 inches around a corner.

  • Mortar Accelerators: Adding antifreeze or other chemicals to mortar can weaken the bond and speed up lath corrosion. Stick to the recommended mixtures.

  • Stair Risers: MSV on stair risers can look great, but it will only lead to issues over time due to de-icing salts, water damage and chipping from shovels. Avoid using MSV in this area.

  • Improper Capping: Water entering a masonry system from above or a sky-facing joint can negatively impact mortar and material performance. Flash and cap them properly with a material that overhangs by at least 1-2 inches to keep water from getting behind the MSV. The drip edge will direct water away from the surface.

  • Special Cases: Retaining walls, planters, pools, and fountains present unique challenges. Ensure proper drainage, waterproofing, and consider alternatives like a rainscreen on the cladding side of the wall for added protection against water and salt damage. Continuous water exposure, especially in chemically treated water, will degrade many concrete products over time, including MSV, which means you shouldn’t install anywhere with prolonged contact with standing or flowing water.


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