FAQ

General

For installing ADORN® Stone on exterior applications, it’s essential to use the right screws to ensure a secure installation.

Fastener Specifications:

  • Corrosion Resistance: Must withstand outdoor elements.
  • Head Diameter: Minimum of 3/8″.
  • Shank Diameter: At least 1/8″.
  • Length: Typically 1 ½” to 1 ¾”, penetrating studs by at least 1″.

Recommended Fasteners:

  • COATED Exterior Construction Nails or Screws: For general exterior use.
  • Concrete Screws (e.g., Tapcon): For concrete walls, predrill holes and penetrate the block by at least 1″.
  • Corrosion Resistance: NCP recommends high-quality fasteners but isn’t responsible for their corrosion resistance.

Please refer to our full installation guide

Where to Buy:

Please refer to our nationwide dealer map to find information on the availability of ADORN® Stone products across the country. Enter your zip code to access a list of retailers nearest to you, making it convenient to locate our products for your project needs.

Selling Direct 

NCP Industries does not sell directly to homeowners or contractors.  Please refer to our “Where to Buy” tab for assistance in purchasing. For special projects or customers outside our distribution area, please reach out to us at info@ncpindustries.com or call 888.379.2210 for assistance in purchasing.

Color Disclaimer:

Actual product color may vary slightly from the images shown due to print or digital screen differences when viewing online. Please consider ordering a sample before purchasing.

Steps to Determine Materials for Your ADORN® Stone Project

1. Use Our Unit Calculators

  • Visit our website to access our easy-to-use unit calculators.
  • Input your project dimensions.
  • The calculators will determine how many boxes of flats, corners, sills, or pillars you’ll need.

2. Measure Your Project Area

  • Measure the total square footage of the area where you plan to install ADORN® Stone.
  • Ensure accurate measurements of height and width.

3. Account for Doors and Windows

  • Subtract the square footage of any doors and windows from your total measurement.
  • This adjustment ensures you don’t order more materials than necessary.

4. Add Extra for Cuts and Waste

  • Add a little extra to your order to account for cuts, mistakes, freight damage, and waste.
  • A common recommendation is to add 10% to your total square footage.

Product Specifications

Flats:

  • Dimensions: 23.5L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: 4 square feet per box
  • Pieces: 4 pieces per box

Corners:

  • Dimensions: 5.50L x 9.50L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: 3 vertical linear feet per box
  • Pieces: 12 pieces per box
  • Note: Works as both inside and outside corners

Sills:

  • Dimensions: 23.5L x 3.5W x 2.5H inches
  • Coverage: 6 linear feet per box
  • Pieces: 3 pieces per box

Pillar Stone:

  • Dimensions: 18L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: 6 inches up on all 4 sides
  • Pieces: 4 pieces per box
  • Note: To be installed over a 14″ x 14″ frame to create an 18″ x 18″ outside dimension pillar

Post Stone:

  • Designed to Wrap: 6″ x 6″ post
  • Dimensions: 9.5L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: 1.5 linear feet per box
  • Pieces: 12 pieces per box

Accessories:

  • Sold individually

Note: Pieces per box may vary at MENARDS® locations, so please check before ordering.

Using Masonry Screws

  • Secure the stone using masonry screws through the attaching flange.
  • This method allows for straightforward installation without removing the brick.
  • Ensure the brick surface is in excellent condition—firmly set and free from any structural issues.

Considering the Added Weight

  • If concerned about the added weight of ADORN® Stone, consider removing the brick.
  • Fasten the stone directly to the sub-structure with the appropriate screws.
  • This approach follows standard installation instructions and provides a more secure foundation, especially for heavier applications.

Inspecting the Brickwork

  • Conduct a thorough inspection of the brickwork if installing ADORN® Stone directly over brick.
  • Ensure the bricks are stable, intact, and properly aligned to support the new stone facing.
  • Taking these precautions will help ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.

Yes, ADORN® Stone can be installed over foamboard insulation using the following steps:

Securing Each Panel

  • Use a minimum of 3 screws per panel.
  • Ensure at least one screw per panel penetrates into a wall stud to a depth of at least 1 inch for secure attachment.

Adjusting for Foamboard Thickness

  • Ensure the screw length accommodates the additional thickness of the foamboard panel.
  • Plan accordingly to achieve a secure installation.

Yes, in most cases, ADORN® Stone can be installed over stucco when following these steps:

Installing ADORN® Stone Over Stucco

Surface Preparation

  • Painting: Paint the stucco black, or
  • Wrapping: Wrap the area with a Water-Resistant Barrier (WRB) such as 15 lb black felt.

Securing Each Panel

  • Use 3 quality exterior construction screws per panel.
  • Ensure at least one screw per panel is installed into a stud to a depth of 1 inch.

The cost of ADORN® Stone can vary depending on where you purchase it.

Dealer Availability: Explore our Where to Buy tab to find local dealers in your area to get pricing information. 

Cost Considerations: Pricing for ADORN® Stone is influenced by factors such as product type, quantity needed, and any additional features or accessories.

Pricing Disclaimer: Please note that pricing for ADORN® Stone at MENARDS® may vary due to the smaller square footage per box compared to standard packaging. We recommend confirming pricing and square footage details before making a purchase to ensure accuracy and suitability for your project needs.

Using ADORN® Stone Around Fireplaces

Interior and Exterior Use

  • ADORN® Stone can be used around both interior and exterior fireplaces due to its high-strength concrete composition.

Installation Instructions

  • Follow ADORN® Stone’s installation guidelines closely for a safe and secure application.
  • Proper installation ensures the stone’s integrity and appearance.

Manufacturer Recommendations

  • Adhere to the fireplace manufacturer’s ventilation guidelines.
  • Effective heat management prevents potential damage or safety issues.

Safety Note

  • Caution: ADORN® Stone should not come into direct contact with fire or flame.
  • Suitable for use around fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
  • Direct exposure to fire or flame can damage the stone’s surface.
 

Lighter ADORN® Stone Panels

Weight Reduction

  • ADORN® Stone now weighs almost 30% less than our original panel.
  • A typical flat panel weighs approximately 13 lbs.

Benefits

  • Enhanced Handling: The reduction in weight makes panels easier to handle.
  • Convenient Installation: Lighter panels simplify the installation process.
  • Maintained Quality: Despite the weight reduction, the stone’s durability and aesthetic appeal remain intact.

Eco-Friendly

  • The new panels are made from eco-friendly recycled materials.

ADORN® Stone Column Wrapping Options

ADORN® offers both Pillar Stone and Post Stone in every color profile, allowing you to choose based on your project size and requirements.

Pillar Stone

  • Dimensions: 18L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: Extends 6 inches up on all four sides
  • Pieces: 4 pieces per box
  • Installation: Designed to be installed over a 14″x14″ frame to create an 18″x18″ outside dimension pillar

Post Stone

  • Dimensions: 9.5L x 1.75W x 6H inches
  • Coverage: Covers 1.5 linear feet per box
  • Pieces: 12 pieces per box
  • Installation: Specifically designed to wrap a 6″x6″ post

Additional Features

  • Both options provide flexibility and aesthetic appeal.
  • Post and Pillar caps are available separately to complete the look.

For detailed installation instructions, please refer to our Installation Guides.

Absolutely!  ADORN® Stone is an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens, offering a faster installation compared to traditional mortar stones.

Benefits

  • ADORN® Stone offers faster installation compared to traditional mortar stones.

  • Some cutting may be required; use a high-quality concrete blade for precision fitting.

Concrete Sealer Recommendation

  • For high moisture areas, apply a concrete sealer to protect against water damage and stains.
  • Test a piece for the desired finish before sealing the entire project.

Inspiration and Ideas

  • For inspiration and project ideas using ADORN® Stone and our new HANDI Brix project block by NCP Industries, visit our website at ncpindustries.com.

Yes, ADORN® Stone can be used as a backsplash.

  • Built-in Aluminum Flashing: Protects by channeling water down the surface, preventing moisture behind the stone.
  • Overlapping Flashing Pieces: Enhances water resistance and ensures smooth water flow.
  • Base Flashing Installation: Essential to install additional flashing at the base to direct water down.
  • Concrete Sealer Recommendation: For high moisture areas, apply a concrete sealer to protect against water damage and stains. Test a piece for the desired finish before sealing the entire project.

No plastic or foam here!  ADORN® blends high-strength concrete with recycled materials for exceptional durability. Engineered to authentically replicate the look and feel of natural stone, it offers a sophisticated, sustainable alternative.

No, a starter strip is not required for ADORN® Stone installation. Please consult our installation guide for detailed instructions.

PRO Tip: You can use a 2×4 placed at the base along a level line to begin your first row of installation. Once the first row is complete, simply remove the 2×4.”

For cutting ADORN® Stone concrete pieces, we recommend using a high-quality concrete blade specifically designed for masonry and concrete applications. These blades are typically equipped to handle the density and hardness of the material, resulting in cleaner, more precise cuts. This approach not only ensures the integrity and appearance of the ADORN® Stone but also helps minimize dust and debris during the cutting process, facilitating a smoother installation experience.  Please refer to our Installation Guide

SAFETY FIRST:  It is best to always wear a mask and safety glasses when cutting panels. 

Yes, we offer a matching base color spray paint specifically listed in our Touch Up Color Guide for convenient touch-ups.  All easily available at your local hardware store. 

Yes, ADORN® Stone can be installed on ICF. It is recommended to place screws at every tab on the ICF for secure attachment of the panels. This method ensures that the ADORN® Stone is properly anchored and provides a stable installation surface.

In some cases, such as installing ADORN® Stone to the soffit, the attached flange must be removed.  We recommend using a high-quality adhesive such as PL Premium or an all-weather exterior adhesive. Ensure the back of the panel is thoroughly cleaned to achieve a proper bonding surface. Apply adhesive only in the middle of the panel to allow for drainage. For detailed instructions, please refer to our installation guide.

Efflorescence is a natural, cosmetic occurrence that may randomly appear on concrete products as a whitish, powder-like deposit. It results from natural minerals migrating to the surface as concrete cures and moisture evaporates. Efflorescence does not affect the structural integrity of the product and typically wears off or washes away over time.  Because this is a natural phenomenon, efflorescence is not covered under warranty on any NCP Industries products, including ADORN® Stone, Natural Concrete Hardscapes™, or HANDI® Foundation products.

If efflorescence appears, follow these simple steps:

Dry Scrub:  Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the surface and remove the powdery residue. Avoid abrasive tools that could scratch or damage the finish.

Rinse with Water:  Hose down the area using clean water. Avoid high-pressure washers, which may damage the surface texture.

Use Efflorescence Cleaner (If Needed):  For more persistent deposits, apply a commercial efflorescence remover formulated for concrete.

  • Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the cleaner does not damage the finish or painted surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe application.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residue and neutralize the surface.
  • Repeat if Necessary
  • Multiple cleanings may be required depending on the extent of the efflorescence and environmental conditions.

Note: Do not apply any sealers until the efflorescence has been completely removed, as sealing can trap residue beneath the surface and worsen the appearance.