FAQs

FINA stone panels are a lightweight natural stone veneer system that offer the beauty of natural stone without the weight and brittle properties associated with thick, heavy slabs. With a 2 cm [3/4”] thick stone slab, we can produce two (2) lightweight stone panels. This unique process reduces the number of slabs required for the project almost in half, saving natural resources and reducing carbon emissions.

FINA stone panels weigh only 3.5 pounds per square foot, about 80% less weight than a 1” thick dimensional stone slab. These lightweight stone panels can reduce the structural backup requirements, shipping, installation equipment and labor costs. In addition, the honeycomb backer provides superior impact resistance and flexural strength.

We carry a few standard types of limestone and marble. Most, if not all, natural stone slabs available in the marketplace can be processed into FINA stone panels. Our technical team can assist with trends and budget costs for your potential project.

Large panel sizes of 4’x8’, 5’x8’, 4’x10’ and 5’x10’ can be produced, depending on the available slab sizes.

The selection of stone finishes can depend on the application and the stone type. In general, the stones and finishes below can be applied. Not all finishes are suitable for exterior applications.

  • Limestone: honed, polished
  • Granite: honed, polished, brushed, antiqued, thermal
  • Marble: honed, polished, brushed, antiqued, thermal
  • Travertine: filled, unfilled, honed, polished

Yes, lightweight natural stone panels have been in place on building exteriors for more than 40 years. Standing the test of time, these stone panels are the best solution for providing the beauty of natural stone without the weight.

Yes, these panels can be the perfect solution when natural stone is desired, but weight is an issue in applications that include yachts and cruise ships, aircrafts, and motor coaches.

FINA stone panels are available in several thicknesses to meet the needs of the project. After processing, the stone facing is a standard 1/4“ thick. Nominal panel thickness is determined by the thickness of the honeycomb backer and stone facing combined. For exteriors, nominal panel thickness is 1”. For interior, nominal panel thicknesses are 3/4″ to 1” depending on project needs.

Yes. Standard details are available for download in PDF and DWG formats.

FINA stone panels are installed by masons, carpenters, dry-wall contractors, metal panel installers or other installation subcontractors familiar with vertical cladding systems.

Yes, our natural stone panel system, including its attachment system, has been religiously tested by independent testing agencies and approved for commercial buildings’ interiors and exteriors.

ASTM E 84 – Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.

  • Flame spread = 0
  • Smoke index = 120

NFPA 285 – Standard Fire Test Method for Evaluation of Fire Propagation Characteristics of Exterior Wall Assemblies Containing Combustible Components.

ASTM E 2485 – Method A (60 Cycles) – Standard Test Method for Freeze/Thaw Resistance of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems.

ASTM E 283 – Standard Test Method for Rate of Air Leakage.

  • Air infiltration at 1.57 psf. (25 mph), less than 0.01 cfm/ft²
  • Air infiltration at 6.24 psf. (50 mph), less than 0.01 cfm/ft²

ASTM E 330 – Standard Test Method for Wind Loads.

  • Pressure of +90 (psf.), deflection of panel 0.18 (in), 32 (sf) surface area
  • Pressure of -90 (psf.), deflection of panel 0.21 (in), 32 (sf) surface area
  • (Overload Test) Pressure of +135 (psf.), deflection of panel 0.25 (in), 32 (sf) surface area
  • (Overload Test) Pressure of -135 (psf.), deflection of panel 0.32 (in), 32 (sf) surface area

ASTM E 331 – Standard Test Method for Water Penetration. Positive Pressure of 15 (psf.), no leaks occurred.

ASCE 7-05 – Minimum Design Loads for Building Construction. Component and Cladding – Wind Load, Wall Seismic Design Loads, Material Properties.