2024-02-20
stone cladding-Thin Stone Wall Systems
Thin stone wall systems used for exterior building envelopes typically consist of stone panels ranging in thickness from 3/4 inches to 2 inches. Most panels are fabricated from granite, while marble; limestone, travertine, and sandstone are also used to a lesser extent. A common panel thickness is 1-3/16 inch (3 cm). Overall panel dimensions can vary significantly for different buildings, depending on the strength of the stone used and architectural affect desired. However, maximum panel dimensions are usually approximately 3 to 4 feet and usually not more than approximately 6 feet. Typically each panel is independently supported to the building structure or back up system using an assemblage of metal components and anchors. Joints at the perimeter of each panel are usually 3/8 inch in width and are filled with sealant. A drainage cavity is typically located behind the stone panels to collect and divert to the exterior water that penetrates through the joints.For certain applications, such as at building entrances and near grade level installations of limited extent, the stone system may not incorporate a drainage cavity but instead be a barrier system. In this type of system, the stone is applied directly against and attached to solid masonry backup such as concrete masonry units (CMU) or concrete. In these localized applications, several panels may be stacked