Installing Nailon Stone Wall Panels

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Step 1

Install the starter strip at the lowest point of the structure. The structure’s solid substrate must be no less than 7/16” thick. The strip should be positioned 3 1/2'' from the wall corner allowing for the width of the corner piece or molded corner. Nail the starter strip every 12''. Make sure the starter strip remains level.

Step 2

When using vinyl corner posts, install the post PRIOR to installing any panels. When using the Stone Wall molded corner, install a starter clip, open end UP (Figure #2) and in-line with the starter strip (Figure #1). Stone Wall molded corners will be installed AFTER panels from adjacent walls have been set. (See “Stonewall Corner Installation" below)

Step 3

Determine the number of panels needed for the wall by measuring the total length of the wall in inches, subtracting the width of the corner pieces used and dividing by 39 1/2" (the width of one panel exposed to the weather). As you will need to cut the right end panel, ensure that it remains at least 12" wide by reducing the size of the starting panel. The panel can be cut in 8'' increments anywhere along the panel, however, be sure not to overlap the mortar joints of the panel below to ensure a pleasing and authentic Stone look is maintained. Do not cut more than one end piece at this time since adjustments will be required for succeeding rows.

Step 4

Working from left to right, slide the first panel left, butting it flush to the vinyl corner OR, for use with molded corners, leave a 2 1/2 “ gap from the corner of the wall to the edge of the installed panel (Figure #3). Set the first panel gently onto the starter strip making sure to properly engage all installation fingers. Do not override the functioning, positive stop posts that are in-line with the installation fingers on the back of the panel. Caution: Overriding these stop posts may restrict panel movement and may cause
buckling.

Step 5

Drive a non-corrosive fastener straight through the substrate while ensuring that the head only makes light contact with the panel. This allows the panel to move with varying temperatures. The panel requires a minimum of eight (8) fasteners per panel (Figure #4). For high velocity wind areas a fastener is required in each nailing slot. Hook the next panel into the starter strip and slide it into the first panel assuring the two (2) side locks engage with the slots from the preceding (installed) panel (Figures #5 & #6).

Step 6

Install the remaining courses, repeating Steps 1, 3, 4 & 5. The fastener must be flush with the panel, so as not to interfere with the succeeding row of panels. In order to achieve a realistic Stone Wall look, stagger each subsequent course in increments of 8'' (Figure #7). Never force panels down on top of each other or into each other, left to right, or else risk breaking the stop posts on the back of the panel. Set them into place gently, ensuring that every finger &/or side lock is engaged, and allow the panels to seat themselves. The stop posts are designed to prevent buckling due to changing temperatures. Reminder: Be sure all locking fingers are properly engaged.

Step 7

When installing the Stone panels to vinyl corner posts or J-channels, it may be necessary to trim the installation fingers, spacers, ribs &/or channels on the back of the panels within 3'' of the corner or J-channel for a better fit. The 1 1/8” J-Channel & corner post look and fit best for the Stone Wall product.

Step 8

As with any plastic exterior building material, the Stone Wall panel will expand and contract with a change in temperature. Therefore, during installation it is necessary to position the panels properly to compensate for temperature effects. When installing at panel temperatures from 30 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, position the next panel so that the upper left corner of the panel’s nailing hem is butted against the preceding (installed) panel (Figure #8). For installations at temperatures below 30 degrees F, position the next panel slightly right of the preceding panel’s edge (e.g. 1/16”). For temperatures above 100 degrees F, position slightly left so the panel overlaps the preceding panel. Allow a ¼” spacing in all nailing slots. Once the panel has been properly spaced, insert a fastener into the center hole of the panel. For easier installation in colder temperature, store panels in a heated area.

Step 9

Note: Fitting panel pieces between windows or around openings requires a cut-back spacing of 1/8'' when panels are
installed in colder temperatures. Similar spacing may also be necessary when fitting panels into gable ends, over roof angles,
around light blocks or any other place where adequate panel movement is prevented.

Step 10

Nailon J-channels may be used for inside corner treatments or you may scribe and cut panels to fit into the corner. It is recommended to sleeve the corner with vinyl or aluminum coil prior to installation of panels. (Figures #9 and #10) Caulk corner after installation.

Step 11

When completing a wall, face nailing may be necessary. If face nailing is employed, pre-drill a hole in an inconspicuous area, such as a mortar joint. The hole must be larger than the shank of the nail or screw, but smaller than the head, to allow for possible expansion. The head can be covered with matching paint.

Stacked Stone Individual Corner Installation:

The siding must be installed on adjacent walls PRIOR to installing corners

Step 1

Be sure the starter clip is affixed at the bottom of the wall's corner. Slide your first Stonewall molded corner over the siding and engage it into the starter clip. The corner offers two (2) pairs of fastening positions to choose from. For fasteners, galvanized screws are recommended. Once positioned properly, insert one (1) fastener on each side (Figure #11).

Step 2

Take the next corner and engage it into the corner below. Some adjustment may need to be made at the vertical overlap of two (2) corners (as they are installed) in order to maintain the corner/ panel horizontal alignment. There is approximately a 1/2" vertical adjustment available. Gently tug the bottom of the corner to ensure it is properly engaged. Repeat this step until the corner installation is complete. Note: The last molded corner to be installed in a column may need to be cut to fit the remaining space in that column.

Special Situations and Suggestions
 

ATTACHING OBJECTS TO PANELS

Never attach fixtures directly to siding. When attaching fixtures, use a block and first drill a hole slightly larger than the shank of the fasteners, allowing for expansion and contraction. Note: Fasteners for fixtures must penetrate the solid substrate.