Stone Veneer Inspection

Stone veneer requires weather-resistant barrier, metal lath, and scratch coat. Shelf angle or foundation ledge required for structural support.

1. Verify WRB is installed behind veneer

2. Check metal lath is properly fastened to studs

3. Verify scratch coat is applied and scored

4. Check for foundation ledge or shelf angle supporting the veneer weight

5. Verify flashing at tops of walls, windows, and transitions

6. Check weep holes at bottom course (every 24-33")

7. Verify mortar joints are consistent and tooled

- No support ledge (veneer pulls away from wall)

- Missing WRB behind veneer

- No weep holes (water trapped behind stone)

- Missing flashing at windows and transitions

- Mortar joints too thin or inconsistent

- Metal lath not attached to studs

Stones must be firmly bonded with consistent mortar joints. Pattern should look natural. No loose or hollow stones.

1. Tap stones with a rubber mallet — should sound solid (not hollow)

2. Check mortar joints — consistent width and depth

3. Verify pattern looks natural and varied (no obvious repeats)

4. Check corners — should have proper corner pieces

5. Look for mortar smears on stone face (should be cleaned)

6. Check clearance at bottom (2" minimum from grade)

7. Verify sealant at windows and other penetrations

- Hollow stones (poor adhesion — will fall off)

- Obviously repeating pattern

- Mortar smears on stone surface

- Loose stones

- No sealant at penetrations

- Stones touching grade