What types of pieces comprise the AirStone system?
The AirStone system has two basic types of stones, each of which are packaged separately. The first type is Primary Wall Stone to cover wall surfaces. Primary Wall Stone comes eight square feet to a carton. Each carton contains assorted pieces of AirStone in various sizes.
The second type of AirStone is Corner/Finished End Stone for corners and/or natural edges. One carton of Corner/Finished End Stone will cover 6 feet of corner or edge (from floor upward). Also, applied, the Corner/Finished End pieces cover 7.5 square feet of wall surface. These are also assorted pieces in various sizes, designed to transition flawlessly into the Primary Wall Stone.
What kind of adhesive do I need and how much?
For indoor applications, use AirStone Interior Adhesive. One tub will cover approximately 30 square feet. For outdoor applications, we recommend Loctite PL Premium Construction Adhesive. One 28 oz. tube covers approximately 7-10 square feet of AirStone.
What tools do I need?
For interior projects, all you’ll need to install AirStone is a putty knife (to spread our pre-mixed adhesive) and a saw with a masonry blade (no teeth). And for outdoors, just add gloves and a caulk gun.
What kind of surfaces can AirStone be applied to?
Please refer to our instructions for a list of approved interior and exterior substrates. Although we cannot list every possible surface, as a general rule the substrate must be completely rigid so that it will not expand, contract, flex or bow over time due to environment or humidity. For exterior projects, leave a ½” gap between bottom row of AirStone and any hard ground surface, to prevent cracking in case of ground swell/settlement.
Is it OK to adhere AirStone directly to existing tile or brick (for example, on a fireplace)?
Yes, you can adhere AirStone directly to tile, brick, stone, or marble, but it’s important that these substrates are in good condition (not chipped, cracked, crumbling or loose) and clean/free of dust before you begin your AirStone project. If substrate is painted, the paint must be in good condition (peeling, chipping paint will need to be scraped/sanded and cleaned). Tile needs to be well-secured to its original substrate
Is AirStone safe to use around fireplaces? What about the heat?
AirStone is non-flammable, non-combustible and safe to use around wood stoves and fireplaces. It has a Class A rating in accordance with ASTM E-84 standards. When exposed to extreme temperatures (over 360 degrees F), certain lighter tones may be prone to discoloration.
AirStone Interior Adhesive is rated up to a temperature of 120˚F, and Loctite PL Premium Construction Adhesive is rated up to a temperature of 160˚F.
Are there any temperature limitations when installing AirStone?
Yes, for interior projects, using AirStone Interior Adhesive, it should be at least 60 degrees F inside the room for 24 hours prior and 48 hours following installation. It should not be used where temperatures will exceed 120 degrees F or fall below 32 degrees F.
For exterior projects, using Loctite PL Premium Construction Adhesive, it should be at least 40 degrees F outside during installation, and for 24 hours following installation. It should not be used where temperatures will exceed 160 degrees F.
Is it OK to use AirStone on a hearth?
It’s fine on the vertical surface of a hearth, but we do not recommend using AirStone on any horizontal surface.
Is it OK to use AirStone INSIDE a shower?
Technically, it’s fine if AirStone gets wet (of course! It’s approved for outdoor use!). HOWEVER, we probably would not recommend it for INSIDE a shower considering that you shouldn’t use harsh cleansers and stiff scrub brushes that are commonly used to clean shower areas. The constant build-up of soap residue and all the nooks and crannies on AirStone could make it difficult to keep clean. Plus mold could build up behind the stone, which isn’t a problem when it’s outside.
What are the dimensions of each piece of AirStone?
AirStone is 2” or 4” in height, with lengths of 4”, 6”, 8”, 10” and 12”. The depth of the stone averages about 5/8” (the stone molds are cast from real stone, so the depth can vary anywhere from 3/8” to 1”, even on the same piece).
I want to use a power saw to cut the AirStone. What type of blade do you recommend?
You should use a masonry blade (no teeth). When using a dry power saw, wear an approved dust mask and be sure that the back of the stone is free of dust before adhering to the wall. If using a wet saw, rinse the piece thoroughly with clean water after cutting, and place on a dry towel, face down. Be sure that the stone is dry before applying AirStone Interior Adhesive.
In my AirStone project, the corners are not 90˚, so your corner pieces will not work for me. What should I do?
When a corner is not 90˚, two pieces may be mitered to form the proper angle. Simply mark the angle with a pencil and cut the ends accordingly, so that the two pieces butt up to form a corner.
I see you offer outside corners but not inside corners. What is the best way to install an inside corner?
AirStone is designed to replicate real stone. Since there is no such thing as a real stone inside corner, simply end the stone at the end of the first wall and then begin installing the second wall (so that the end of the stone on the second wall overlaps/butts up against the face of the stone on the first wall).
How do I clean AirStone?
You can clean AirStone with a soft bristled brush and a solution of liquid dish detergent and warm water. Do not power-wash AirStone. Acid cleaners, bleach, paint remover or concrete cleaners should never be used on AirStone.
How do I get dried AirStone Adhesive off the face of the stone?
First, you should always try to clean AirStone Interior Adhesive off the face of the stone BEFORE it dries. If it’s too late, try dampening the adhesive with a washcloth or mister (this will only work on AirStone INTERIOR Adhesive). Try to keep it very damp for at least 30 minutes or longer until it starts to loosen up. You should then be able to scrub the adhesive off using more water and a soft toothbrush.
Is it possible to paint or stain AirStone?
We have had customers who have painted and stained AirStone and were very happy with the results. Feel free to experiment if you wish, but we cannot recommend one particular brand of stain or paint over another.
Can I use a sealant over AirStone?
Yes, in fact we recommend this for areas where AirStone may be subject to food splatter or grease, such as a kitchen backsplash or an outdoor grill. Use a high-quality sealer for concrete, masonry or natural porous stone (apply to a test piece 48 hours prior to application to make sure the effect is what you want. Some sealers can darken the stone). Follow the manufacturer’s directions and reapply as instructed. NOTE: most sealers should be allowed to cure for at least 72 hours before they are effective on grease.
Where can I buy AirStone?
AirStone is currently available in over a thousand Lowe’s (U.S. only), and also on lowes.com. AirStone is currently not available directly from the manufacturer.
Are AirStone samples available?
Yes! You can order samples and paint touch-up kits by contacting us.
Can I use common mortar when applying AirStone?
No, but you can use an ANSI AII8.4 polymer-modified thin-set mortar.
What do I need to know when using cement board or plywood for an exterior project?
First, use your discretion when adhering AirStone directly to cement board or plywood on an exterior project. Be aware that any sheathing which is hung from the frame of a home or commercial structure is more prone to movement (for example, due to house settling), and cracking and/or adhesion problems can arise if the substrate moves. Therefore, when using cement board or plywood, it is important that they are well secured, and not able to bow, flex, expand or contract. This is especially important when AirStone bridges across two separate boards, because over time they can move into different positions. Plywood and cement board should have an exterior rating. Make sure the surface is clean and free of dust before adhering AirStone.