"My property has never looked so good! Countless people stop by our home to compliment us on the quality and craftsmanship of the stone work that Putnam Stone has provided us."

~ S. Fitzgerald, Carmel, NY

Frequently Asked Questions:

(1)  What are custom colors and custom types?

We stock 3 colors and 3 types of manufactured stone.  If you meet the minimum custom order requirements, we can have molds made to make different types, and can also match any color.

(2)  Can you recommend a mason? 

We know of outstanding masons in the metro area.  Depending on your area, we would be glad to refer you.  Please call us for the information.(845) 225-3214

(3)  What is the difference between natural stone and manufactured stone?

Manufactured stone is a man-made product.  It is made from molds which mimic the structural forms of natural stone.  Manufactured stone is a concrete based product, unlike natural stone consisting of solid rock.

(4)  What are the benefits of using manufactured stone? 

The cost to buy manufactured stone, and to install it, is much less expensive than natural stone.  However, this does not mean that quality is comprised.  A product made of concrete is built to last for years upon years.  Specifically, Dring Valley Stone has a psi (pounds per square inch) of 6200, making it extremely durable.  Aesthetically, permanent colored pigments are used giving the same look as natural stone.  

(5)  What is manufactured stone made of?

The product is made with a combination of pumice, portland cement, lightweight aggregates and iron oxide pigments.

(6)  What does psi mean?

Pounds per square inch.  Our stone is rated at having 6200 psi.  This means that each square inch of stone can hold 6200 pounds.  Many manufactured stones are well below this rating. 

(7)  What type of maintenance is needed on the stone?

Virtually none.  Do not use any harsh chemicals or power washing. 

(8)  Which chemicals harm the stone?

Specifically, iron oxide, chlorine and some sulfates. 

(9)  Does the color fade over time?

Permanent, top-quality iron oxide pigments are used to give the stone its color.  This stone is made to withstand the harshest of weather conditions. 

(10)  How are the stones organized on a pallet?

Dring Valley Stone is available in 100 sf pallets.  Random patterns and sizes are made so that each stone looks unique.  Each row on a Dring Valley Stone  pallet consists of a different color, giving you a balanced color  blend.  

(11)  If I need under 100 sf of stone, can I break a pallet?

Our professionals have concocted an appropriate mix of sizes and colors to include on a pallet.  Breaking a pallet would leave us with an odd amount to give to the next person.

(12)  What is an accent color?

Accent colors are used to break up the monotony of the main color. 

(13)  Is the installation process time and labor intensive?

This is a quick process, requiring minimal materials.  The stone is lightweight, and adheres to structurally sound walls.   If you are applying the stones to a masonry  surface, you basically need mortar.  If applying to other surfaces, you will need wire lathe, felt paper and mortar.  Please see our installation instructions for exact directions.

(14)  Are there certain building codes that I have to adhere to? 

Dring Valley Stone meets or exceeds required building codes.   Before installing, check with your town’s inspection office for any specific requirements.

(15)  When you refer to a “structurally sound wall”, what does that mean?

In order to install this stone, a wall needs to be capable of carrying the stone without collapsing.

(16)  How can I tell if the mortar is setting up properly?

The surface will begin to dry and the mortar will loose its adhesive quality.

(17)  Why can’t I use a wire brush to roughen the surface when applying the mortar?

Manufactured stone is concrete.  A wire brush will remove the color and expose the concrete below. 

(18)  When installing the wire lathe, can I run it side to side?

The wire lathe is made to run vertically.

(19)  When I cut the stone, the concrete is visible on the side.  I don’t want to see that.  How do I hide it?

After cutting the stone, put the cut end toward another stone.  If you are cutting on a horizontal plane, put the cut side either facing down (below eye level) or facing up (above eye level).

(20)  When mixing the mortar, can I use mason’s mix, or sand mix?

You can use mason’s mix, but you will need to add more Portland.  Sand mix may have to heavy an aggregate. 

(21)  Why do I have to keep the stones 4-1/2” from the soil?

Minerals in the soil can latch onto manufactured stone and cause discoloration or scaling. 

(22)  When installing the stone on a non-masonry surface, can I use durarock instead of felt paper and wire lathe?

Absolutely.  If you use durarock, you do not have to use felt paper and wire lathe.  Durarock acts as a masonry surface. You should “mist”, or lightly spray, water on the durarock before applying the mortar.  DO NOT saturate the durarock board.