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