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Featherstone Installation Guide

Scope of This Installation Guide

This installation guide applies to Featherstone flexible stone veneer when used as a decorative architectural finish in areas adjacent to water features.

These applications may include:

This guide does not apply to installations where Featherstone veneer will be exposed to continuous water flow, standing water, or submerged conditions.

For water feature surfaces that will experience direct water contact, Adagio Water Features utilizes specialized systems designed specifically for wet environments.

This document outlines the recommended procedures for installing Featherstone veneer products. These materials offer the authentic appearance of natural stone while providing exceptional flexibility, lightweight handling, and ease of installation.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a durable installation and a professional finish suitable for architectural features, wall cladding, and custom fabrication.

Material Characteristics

Featherstone veneer is manufactured from thin layers of natural stone reinforced with a composite backing. The resulting product maintains the natural beauty of stone while allowing controlled flexibility and lightweight installation.

Typical characteristics include:

Sheets can typically bend along their length to a radius of approximately 14 inch, though this may vary slightly depending on the specific stone and backing type. Fabric-backed materials generally offer the highest flexibility for curved installations.

Surface Preparation

Proper substrate preparation is critical for a long-lasting installation.

All surfaces must be:

Suitable substrates may include:

For exterior installations, proper moisture management systems should always be incorporated to protect the underlying structure.

Cutting and Fabrication

Flexible stone veneer can be easily fabricated using common shop tools.

Recommended cutting methods include:

These materials can be cut, trimmed, and shaped to fit most architectural applications including panels, columns, cabinetry, and feature walls.

Adhesives

The selection of adhesive depends on the substrate and application environment.

Common adhesive systems include:

For wet environments such as showers or water-exposed surfaces, epoxy resin adhesives are strongly recommended due to their moisture resistance and superior bond strength.

Pressure-sensitive adhesive backings are also available on some sheets, allowing for peel-and-stick installation in select interior applications.  Inquire for more details

Installation Procedure

  1. Layout Planning
    Dry fit all sheets to determine layout, grain direction, and seam placement.

  2. Adhesive Application
    Apply the selected adhesive evenly to the substrate or the back of the veneer sheet according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  3. Placement
    Position the veneer sheet and press firmly to achieve full surface contact.

  4. Rolling / Pressure
    Use a laminate roller or flat pressing tool to ensure uniform adhesion and eliminate air pockets.

  5. Seam Alignment
    Sheets may be installed edge-to-edge or with grout spacing depending on the design intent.

Tiled Installations and Grouting

When installing the veneer in a tiled layout, leave consistent grout joints between panels.

Recommended practices:

Epoxy grout can also serve as a protective surface sealer when properly cleaned during finishing.

MDF / HDF Panel Lamination

For industrial panel production or cabinetry applications:

Recommended adhesives include polyurethane hot-melt adhesives or EVA-based polymer adhesives.

Flooring Applications

Certain stone veneers containing higher quartz content may be suitable for flooring systems when properly laminated to MDF or HDF panels and supported by an appropriate structural substrate.

Consult the stone supplier before specifying veneer for floor applications.

Sealing and Protection

All natural stone veneers should be sealed after installation to protect against staining and moisture.

Acceptable sealers include:

Penetrating sealers create hydrophobic and oleophobic protection, helping repel water and oil-based contaminants while preserving the natural appearance of the stone.

Sealer finish levels should always be tested on a sample before final installation.

Recommended Applications

Flexible stone veneer is suitable for a wide range of architectural applications including:

Best Practices

To achieve the best results: