F.A.Q’s
Q: Why should I choose Gatton Masonry
A: Gatton Masonry provides the highest quality at the best possible value, plus our installation technique is far superior in that it allows no water to enter the sub surface of the work ensuring a long lasting moisture free masonry install that will stand the test of time. We stand behind our work and have a commitment to provide you with the best customer service experience.
Q: Where can I go to look at stone samples?
A: There are local stone suppliers on Vancouver Island that can show you many types of imported and locally sourced stone products or we can suggest a product to meet your needs. Some retail locations are K2 stone quarries located in Duke point south of Nanaimo or Central Construction Materials located on Church rd. near Parksville. If the personal touch is more your thing we can provide some samples on site for viewing.
Q: Where does the stone come from ?
A: Most stone products are locally sourced from quarries on Vancouver Island. Stone products are also imported from quarries in the U.S.A and overseas.
Q: What is thin stone or stone veneer?
A: Natural thin stone veneer is a product that has been around for many years and is made through the process of cutting one inch strips off of much larger stones to create the look of the face of that boulder without all the heavy weight of traditional stone blocks. these pieces are then fit and mortared to the prepared surface.
Q: How do you prepare a plywood sheeted wall before you install the stone veneer?
A: Gatton Masonry uses the best quality rain screen products which provides a 1/2″ air space behind the scratch coat the stone bonds to. It comes on a large roll and is made from a woven plastic with a water wicking fabric over top. after the rain screen is attached to the plywood sheeting diamond wire mesh is attached over top and scratch coated with mortar. this provides a breathing space so no moisture can condensate between the sheeted wall and the masonry veneer.
Q: What type of mortar is used to install stone veneer?
A: Typically a “type S” mortar is used in a 2 to 1 mix with sand and mortar powder. acrylic liquid add mix may also be added to the mortar to provide more working time and flexibility in outdoor installations.
Q: Why does my chimney leak?
A: There are many reasons water might be getting in around or down the chimney itself. If you have had a re-roof and the flashing was not installed around the chimney properly or your top cap is no longer water proof and water is penetrating the chimney itself and working it’s way into the building envelope. Some times you find the mortar itself is old and has failed then a repair would have to be done or the stack removed if it was no longer in use.
