VI.  General Information

            1. Cleaning:  To clean dust, mud, dirt, and other debris from the stone, use detergent or a granulated soap product mixed with water.  Scrub with a soft    bristled brush and rinse with water.  Do not used a wire brush, high pressure power washer tip or any product that contains acid, as this may create an undesirable result.

            2.  Pools and Fountains:  OCS stone veneer is not recommended in any area that  has constant contact with chlorine or other water chemicals.  Stone below water levels can result in discoloration as would any concrete product.

            3.  Salts and De-Icing agents:  Do not use salts or other chemicals to remove snow and ice immediately adjacent to the surface of OCS stone.

            4.  Scuffing:  Scuffing occurs on naturals stones when palletized the stones rub together creating these marks.  In most cases this enhances the appearance of the stone.  If scuff marks need to be removed , clean with soap, water and a soft bristled brush.

            5.  Efflorescence:  Efflorescence is a water soluble salt that penetrates the surface of veneer stone, stucco, mortar, brick and other masonry products.  On rare occasions it may occur on OCS stone. To remove, mix 1 part vinegar and 5 parts water and scrub with a soft bristled brush and rinse with water

            6.  Sealers:  Sealers are not necessary on OCS products.  A Silane based sealer can help with cleaning in areas where the stone is susessable to dirt.  Sealers may darken or change the color of the stone, therefore OCS recommend that testing the sealer on individual stones to make sure results are acceptable.

            7. Capping of Exterior Walls:  When OCS stone is applied to the top of an exposed exterior wall, or retaining wall, it is recommended that OCS capstones be used or a poured in place concrete cap to provide adequate runoff.  Capstones should project a minimum of 1 inch beyond the finished stone surface.

            8.  Capping of Chimneys:  All chimneys chases must be capped with a one piece cap that extends 1 inch beyond the finished stone surface to eliminate water from entering the chase.

VII.  Good Building Practices

            1.  Building Code Requirements:  Building code requirements vary from area to area.  Check with local building authorities for the requirements in your area.  Proper building techniques are essential to the integrity of your project.

            2.  Cold Weather:  OCS veneer stone should not be install unless temperatures are 38 degree F.  and rising.  If temperatures are below 38 degrees, the mortar can freeze effecting its strength and color.

VIII.  Warranty

Old Carolina Stone veneer products are covered 40 years from installation, when installed according to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.  Old Carolina Stone will replace any material deemed to be defective at no charge.  This warranty is limited to the original purchaser and is not transferable. This warranty does not cover damages resulting from: settlement of the building or other wall movements; discoloration due to airborne contaminants; contact with any chemicals or pain; staining or oxidation.  Labor cost incurred in removal and replacement of defective products is not covered.