Q: What thicknesses are available?
A: Free Form cladding is available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses. The 20mm option is lighter and suitable for interior accent walls and lighter-duty applications. The 30mm thickness provides enhanced durability for high-traffic areas, weather-exposed exterior applications, and demanding commercial environments.
Q: How does Free Form perform in freeze-thaw climates?
A: Our stone is tested through 100+ freeze-thaw cycles per ASTM C67, confirming reliable performance in harsh winter climates. Water absorption is kept below 1-2% depending on stone type, preventing ice-induced damage. We recommend proper drainage detailing and weather-resistant barriers on exterior applications in freeze-thaw regions.
Q: Can Free Form be installed over existing siding?
A: No. The substrate must be stable, structurally sound, and in good condition. Existing siding must be removed. We recommend installation over concrete block, properly framed and sheathed walls, or sound masonry. Remove any flaking paint, efflorescence, or loose material before installation.
Q: Is Free Form cladding suitable for interior use?
A: Yes. Interior applications include feature walls, fireplace surrounds, accent walls in foyers, and commercial spaces. Interior installations don’t require weather-resistant barriers or complex drainage detailing, making them straightforward and cost-effective.
Q: How much does a full pallet of Free Form cladding cost?
A: Pricing varies based on stone type, thickness, size assortment, and order volume. Standard quote pricing is available for 150 sq ft pallets. Volume discounts apply to orders exceeding 1,000 sq ft. Contact our sales team with your project specifications for accurate, competitive pricing.
Q: What’s the warranty on Free Form cladding?
A: Stone products carry a structural integrity warranty of 10+ years against manufacturing defects. The durability of natural stone ensures performance well beyond typical building lifespans. Warranty covers stone material only; installation workmanship is the installer’s responsibility per industry-standard practices.
Q: Can Free Form be cut or trimmed on-site?
A: Yes. Use a diamond blade wet saw or angle grinder with a masonry blade to make clean cuts. Mark cutting lines with a pencil or grease marker, and always wear appropriate PPE. Cut from the back surface where possible to prevent chipping the visible face. Trim pieces make excellent fillers for small gaps.
Q: How do we match batch color if we need additional material later?
A: Always order full estimated quantities upfront. If additional material is needed, provide the original batch number from your pallet label. We maintain production records and can pull matching material from the same quarry block when available. Color matching is not guaranteed if quarries have since extracted different veins. It’s advisable to maintain a small overage (5-10%) in your original order.
Q: Is Free Form appropriate for commercial projects?
A: Yes. Commercial projects benefit from Free Form’s authentic character, design flexibility, rapid installation, and strong warranty. Lobbies, restaurants, hotel interiors, and retail environments all specify Free Form successfully. Larger commercial projects may negotiate volume pricing and extended payment terms. Contact our commercial sales team for project-specific support.
