The design professional should also verify that proper testing has been conducted when specifying manufactured stone veneer. These tests include:

• Density Measurement
• Compressive Strength
• Tensile Measurement
• Flexural Measurement
• Shear Bond
• Moisture Absorption
• Freeze Thaw
• Wind-Load

As an interior product, UL also tests stone veneer for flame spread, smoke developed, and fuel contributed as required to meet codes for interior finishes. Most manufacturers recommend stone veneer placement a distance of 16 in. to 18 in. away from any direct flame. Manufactured stone veneers that meet these testing requirements are a good finish material for interior walls including fireplace surrounds.

The Masonry Veneer Manufacturers Association (MVMA)⁴ was established to advance the growth of the manufactured masonry veneer products industry through proactive technical, advocacy and awareness efforts. The MVMA is working to:

• Develop a consensus standard for the installation of masonry veneer
• Draft performance-based standards
• Work with code development to provide the best technical information.

This association is a good source for installation guidelines, innovations in product development and a continuing resource about masonry stone veneer.

The selection of the appropriate manufacturer for architectural stone veneer requires an analysis of a variety of factors. Review the product for its authenticity in appearance. Review product weight, nationwide distribution, cost, ease of installation, testing and evaluation reports. Review access to a local representative and customer service and to a comprehensive website with literature and product resources as well as the length of the established business. By carefully selecting a reputable manufacturer, clients will be assured assistance throughout the lifetime of the building.

Sustainability
There are many steps taken to select a building material for any project. The design professional assesses the contribution of each material to the aesthetic goals of the project. The performance requirements will be analyzed based on its application. A variety of green building materials selection guides are now available, and most architects are familiar with a variety of sustainable design rating systems.

Manufactured stone veneer has many benefits that allow architects to select this product as an alternative to many other veneers. The concrete base is both recyclable and can contain a large percentage of recycled content. With proper installation, veneer is easy to maintain. One of the greatest benefits is that it provides a material surface with a very long life cycle and many manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty.

Manufactured stone veneer provides these advantages and can reduce transportation costs. Approximately one-third to half the weight of natural stone, specifying this product reduces shipping weight charges. Veneer manufacturers can be found in most regional manufacturing locations and raw materials are from local sources, making it possible to keep within the 500-mile requirements of a locally sourced raw material that is often a requirement in green rating systems.

Stone veneer can add to both air quality and thermal mass of a wall system. Stone veneer is a low-emitting product and some exceed stringent EPA emissions requirements. The designer can request to see tests from GREENGUARD’s Test Method P066 to verify these claims. When used as part of an exterior wall cladding system, the thermal mass of the veneer can help reduce energy usage, moderating both extreme heat and cold conditions. The thermal resistance, or R-value, of this product can provide as much as 0.43 per 1-1/2 in. of thickness depending on the wall construction.

By setting environmental guidelines and measurements that both quantify and qualify the performance goals for each material, the client and the architect will have better control of how to select materials most beneficial to the environment. There are usually trade-offs between the social, economic and environmental goals of the three-legged stool that is sustainable design. Manufactured stone veneer provides an appropriate and elegant solution for walls and surfaces that celebrate and contribute to the natural environment.

Architect Celeste Allen Novak, AIA, LEED AP, specializes in sustainable design and planning in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

ENDNOTES
1 2 3 4	http://www.lpainc.com https://mcgrawimages.buildingmedia.com/archrec/projects/bts/archives/civic/08_Temecula/ http://www.masonryveneer.org/pdf/Are%20Control%20Joints%20Needed%20FINAL.pdf http://www.masonryveneer.org

For over 40 years, Eldorado Stone has demonstrated an undeniable passion for creating authentic products that not only elevate quality and design, but also attainability. The expansive line of stone and brick veneer profiles are available nationwide in a variety of rich color blends and textures. View our online Designer’s Portfolios and Imagine Gallery for more inspiration and ideas. Visit www.eldoradostone.com.