Installation Guide

At Vello, we are redefining what’s possible in wall design by merging the timeless beauty of natural stone with cutting-edge innovation.

1. PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Product Name: Vello Stone
Application:Decorative surfacing for interior walls and select exterior areas (covered or low exposure). Not for structural or load-bearing use.


2. TOOLS - MATERIALS REQUIRED

Tools

  • Circular saw or angle grinder with masonry blade
  • Mixing bucket, rubber trowel, small shovel
  • Caulking gun (manual or pneumatic)
  • Tape measure, scissors, utility knife
  • Steel ruler, round steel bar
  • Laser level or spirit level
  • Pneumatic nail gun
  • Electric mortar mixer
  • V-notched trowel (1/4" square-notch)

Materials

  • Silicone Adhesive: High-performance, construction-grade (MS Polymer or Hybrid Polymer based)
  • Thin-Set Mortar: Large and heavy tile mortar (LHT) meeting ANSI A118.15
  • Color-matching Caulk: Paintable caulking for joints and edges

3. SURFACE PREPARATION

Approved Substrates:

  • Drywall (interior only)
  • Exterior-grade plywood
  • Solid wood panels
  • Cement backer board
  • Fiberglass-mat gypsum sheathing

Substrate Conditions:

  • Surface must be clean, dry
  • Free of cracks, oil, grease, dust, flaking or hollow spots
  • Repair any damage on substrate before installation

Environmental Requirements:

  • Temperature: 59°F to 118°F (15°C to 48°C)
  • Avoid installation in direct sunlight, rain, snow, or winds above 20 mph
  • Protect area from runoff and weather during installation

4. INSTALLATION PROCESS

⚠️ SAFETY NOTICE: Wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting or handling Vello Stone.

A. Cutting

  • Use a circular saw or angle grinder with a masonry blade to shape tiles as needed

B. Adhesive or Mortar Application

Choose one of the following methods:

1. Silicone Adhesive Method:

  • Use (high-performance, construction-grade silicone or hybrid adhesive – MS Polymer or Hybrid Polymer Adhesives)
  • Apply adhesive in a continuous 1" perimeter bead on the back of each panel
  • Add horizontal beads every 6" across the panel

2. Thin-set Mortar Method:

  • Use (high-performance, large and heavy tile (LHT) mortars that meet the ANSI A118.15 standard)
  • Skim coat the substrate with the flat side of the trowel
  • Comb mortar in one direction with notched side held at 45° angle
  • Ensure minimum 3/32" mortar thickness after pressing the panel
  • Back-butter each panel for better adhesion, focusing on corners and edges

C. Installation

  • Apply one panel at a time, pressing firmly into place
  • Temporarily secure using pneumatic nails
  • Check alignment with laser or spirit level

D. Finishing

  • Clean surface with a dry cloth
  • Fill joints with color-matching caulking
  • Smooth and correct corners with scraper and sandpaper as needed

5. CORNERS - JOINTS

  • For external corners, use miter cuts for a seamless finish
  • Sand lightly and fill imperfections with caulking

6. STORAGE - HANDLING

  • Store panels flat; avoid bending
  • Use cardboard or wooden packaging
  • Suitable for truck, air, or sea transport

7. MAINTENANCE

Do Not:

  • Hit surface with sharp/heavy objects
  • Let colored liquids sit on surface
  • Use hydrochloric acid or harsh chemicals

Cleaning:

  • Use water, mild detergent, or hand sanitizer with soft cloth
  • Use 400-mesh sandpaper for stubborn marks

8. SAFETY - COMPLIANCE

  • Low-VOC emissions
  • Formaldehyde-free
  • Safe levels of heavy metals
  • Fire, heat, and UV-resistant
  • Compliant with ANSI A118.15, TCNA guidelines

FIELD INSTALLATION CHECKLIST

Task

Completed (Y/N)

Notes

Substrate is clean, dry - level

Environmental conditions OK

Temperature/Wind

Safety gear worn (PPE)

Gloves, goggles, mask

Tools - materials on-site

Adhesive/mortar, trowels, etc.

Adhesive/mortar applied correctly

Per method (silicone or LHT)

Panels placed & leveled

Laser/spirit level used

Caulking applied at joints

Color-matched, smooth finish

Cleanup complete

No debris, surface cleaned


For technical support or warranty details, please contact: support@vellostone.com