TOPIC: Faux rock

I am finding that no one is installing the faux (fake) rock properly on homes. There is a weep screen need and the rock is not to go into the ground or finished area. Some people put the rock on top of roofing shingles with no flashing. When it is time to replace the roof the rock is no top and you can not get the old one out and get the new ones in.

Most of the manufactured stone veener installations are wrong.  Very few have a weep screed at the bottom.  Remember they only need the weep screed on wood framed walls.  If the manufactured stone is adhered to a mansonry surface, block or poured foundation, there is not need for a weep screed. 

The NC licensing board has a prepared statement on their website for use by NC home inspectors to use.  While not bad, I have tweaked it a bit to improve word flow and sound more like my writing style.

NC licensing board version:
www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/Engineering/hilb/engi...mmended_language.asp

Recommended Language:
Manufactured stone veneer has been installed on the (list areas) of this house. An inspection of the visible components has revealed that the stone veneer has not been installed in compliance with installation guidelines provided by the Masonry Veneer Manufacturer’s Association (MVMA). A PDF copy of the installation guidelines is available at www.masonryveneer.org/pdf/mvma030909.pdf .

Specific problems noted with the visible components include, but may not be limited to: (list all that apply)
-Weep screeds are missing at the base of the wood frame walls.
-Weep screeds are missing at the tops of window and door openings.
-There is no caulk between other materials and the masonry veneer at windows, doors, and adjacent trim.
-The masonry veneer is in contact with the ground.
-The masonry veneer is in contact with paved surfaces.
-The masonry veneer is in contact with roofing materials.
-Kick-out flashings are missing where roof eaves meet the masonry veneer.
-Metal lath is visible between stones, indicating that the proper base coats of mortar were not applied prior to installation of the stone.

The lack of proper detailing and flashing may result in water penetration behind the siding, resulting in structural damage. The installation of the manufactured stone veneer should be evaluated, compared to the specific installation requirements of the stone manufacturer and the MVMA, and repaired or replaced as deemed necessary by a licensed general contractor or masonry contractor experienced with installation requirements for manufactured stone veneer.

Please note that because the water resistive barrier , metal lath, and base coat(s) of cement stucco are completely concealed behind the manufactured stone veneer, they cannot be evaluated by a visual inspection.

Bruce good info, thanx.
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