Integrating Lightweight Engineered Stone Systems with Exterior Insulation

When exterior insulation is required along with our lightweight engineered stone systems, there are few ways the construction process can play out.

One construction method can include a wall made up of steel-stud framing, sheathing and Z-sections. In this scenario, the Z-sections can be attached through the sheathing and to the steel studs via screws. Also, mineral wool, low-density expanded polystyrene, or rigid insulation board would be placed between Z-sections.

A second construction method for integrating lightweight engineered stone systems with exterior insulation is one which incorporates stud framing, sheathing, and 14 gage angle clips. In this instance, the clips would be attached through the sheathing and to the steel stud framing via screws. This process is especially advantageous because there would not be solid, full-length steel from exterior to interior surfaces and therefore the transfer of heat is reduced. In addition, this method creates compensation in variation of the backup wall plane and it\’s great for masonry backup. For this method, the long-length vertical angle is set with a laser beam that is parallel to the wall surface and insulation can be mineral wool, low-density expanded polystyrene, or rigid insulation board. Also note, this method may involve cutting down insulation to fit the steel studs.

Finally, a third construction method for integrating lightweight engineered stone systems with exterior insulation involves installing framing, sheathing, and insulation board (directly over sheathing). In this scenario, the insulation board should ideally be of a 30 psi compression strength, but 25 psi can work. For this process, our interlocking channels attach through the insulation board and sheathing to the stud framing. Long screw will be required for attaching our lightweight engineered stone systems in this instance.

If you have any questions about installation, contact us directly at 800.328.6275.