POLYMER MODIFIED ADHERED VENEER MORTAR (PMAVM)
Stone Mortar for Bonding Adhered Manufactured Stone Veneer, Natural Thin Cut Stone and Thin Brick
Standard (VM-04) and Color (VM-06)
ULTIMATE BOND. NON SAGGING.
SPEC MIX® Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) is a technologically advanced adhered veneer mortar for use in bonding adhered manufactured stone veneer, natural thin cut stone and thin brick to a cementitious substrate. PMAVM is designed to provide excellent workability, cohesion, high bond strength, sag resistance, water resistance, efflorescence minimization, and durability. SPEC MIX PMAVM is the ideal solution for architects and contractors with projects where an immediate and ongoing need for mortar delivering high bond strength and sag resistance during installation is required. In applications where mortar joints are not utilized, such as dry stack applications, SPEC MIX PMAVM should be used to gain additional bond strength and “pop-off” protection. Installing natural thin cut stone veneer is aided by the unique anti-sag and high bond properties of SPEC MIX PMAVM.
SPEC MIX PMAVM meets the requirements of ASTM C 1714 and ASTM C 270 for Type S and N mortar including ANSI 118.4 (F-5.1.5) and TMS 402/602 shear bond standards. SPEC MIX PMAVM has been rigorously tested to reduce the probability of unit “pop-offs” and contractor call-backs to repair adhered veneer failures common with standard mortars. SPEC MIX PMAVM is available in standard and custom colors.
In addition to custom mix designs that are available for specific applications or properties, the SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar is designed to be compatible with the characteristics of most all specified adhered masonry veneer units. It is acceptable for all types of construction: concrete, masonry, wood frame or steel studs, with submittals available upon request.
Engineer Adhered Veneer Solution
SPEC MIX PMAVM, when coupled with proper design and workmanship, is specifically engineered to increase adhesion of veneer units to concrete and masonry substrates including properly prepared wood, metal stud and rigid insulation type construction. Traditional masonry mortar performance only allows for a standard mechanical bond between the veneer unit and substrate—not the optimal solution for a high bond, durable veneer wall system. In comparison, SPEC MIX PMAVM significantly increases the wall systems mechanical bond with an added chemical bond created by specially selected polymers that chemically react at the unit and substrate interface to create a molecular bond between the components resulting in superior adhesion.
The SPEC MIX PMAVM proprietary formula is highly cohesive which makes for unparalleled workability when troweled. Its formulation also enhances the mortar’s board life which improves adhesive qualities that make it easy to apply veneer units to the wall substrate. By working with SPEC MIX PMAVM, installation contractors enjoy the benefits of a controlled product; increasing efficiency, resulting in extensive labor savings. SPEC MIX PMAVM contains flexibility characteristics to mitigate common building shifts, movements and deflection while protecting against shrinkage cracking. After job completion, SPEC MIX PMAVM offers optimal impact resistance to help keep veneer projects structurally sound.
Quality Control Drives Our Process
The driving force behind our commitment to quality and our statement to the design community is: “What you specify is what you get!” Our process embraces our commitment to supply superior products. SPEC MIX PMAVM is manufactured locally across North America by our team of manufacturing facilities. Each facility utilizes state of the art batching equipment that starts with a custom formulation or mix design, then all raw materials are pre-weighed and checked for accuracy. Like all SPEC MIX products, the PMAVM mix is produced with the finest raw materials available in each regional market. Once each material is weighed, the batch is thoroughly blended for total uniformity and consistency. This process is supported by our strict quality control procedures to meet project specifications, contractor expectations and applicable ASTM, ANSI and TMS Standards. Unlike field-mixed mortar, a digital printout displaying the actual proportions of materials in each batch may be kept as a permanent record. This is the level of quality assurance you get from SPEC MIX on every project!
Choose the Right Mortar with our Adhered Veneer Mortar Selection Guide
Colored Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar
Colored Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) is easily achieved through the SPEC MIX preblended approach perfected for over 20 years. SPEC MIX colored PMAVM uniformity starts with sourcing high quality, stable pigments and then preblending them into the formula to ensure color consistency throughout the project. Colored PMAVM should be used in adhered veneer projects such as the bonding mortar for drystack applications where the applicator, owner or specifier desires a specific color mortar other than standard gray to blend into the background of the stone. Using Colored PMAVM for joint grouting is also an excellent solution where a joint color to match or blend with the adhered veneer is desired. The SPEC MIX standard colored mortar line is available in the PMAVM formulation and consists of a collection of 25 colors that are available in 80 lb (36.2 kg) and 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) bags throughout North America. When building owners and designers want a unique color that supports their vision for a project, the options for custom SPEC MIX colored mortars are endless and consistent from batch to batch.
SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar Test Results: Shear Bond and Workability Study
• PMAVM exceeds code requirements for ASTM C482 shear bond by 560 percent – 330 psi in 28 days.
• PMAVM achieves 428 psi shear bond strength in 28 days when tested in using ANSI 118.4 (F-5.1.5).
• Exceeds open time, sag and adjustability requirements of ANSI 118.4.
• Can be used to apply stones directly to concrete or masonry surfaces.
SPEC MIX® Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar is available in 80 lb. (36.3 kg.) packages for easy hand loading or in 3,000 lb. (1,360.8 kg.) reusable bulk bags to be used with the various SPEC MIX® silo systems.
PRODUCT FEATURES
• Provides excellent workability, cohesion, high bond strength, sag resistance, water resistance, efflorescence minimization, and durability
• Unique anti-sag and high bond properties
• Meets ASTM C 1714 and ASTM C270 requirements for type S mortars including ANSI A 118.4 and TMS 402/602 shear bond standards
• Designed to be compatible with the characteristics of most all specified adhered masonry veneer units
| SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) Performance Standards | ||
|---|---|---|
| Bond Strength | Requirement | PMAVM |
| TMS 402/602 28 Day Shear Bond (laboratory prepared) | 50 PSI (0.3 MPa) | >300 PSI (2.0 MPa) |
| ANSI A 118.4 7 Day Shear Bond (laboratory prepared) | 300 PSI (2.0 MPa) | >400 PSI (2.7 MPa) |
| SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) Variables | |
|---|---|
| Open Time | |
| Room Temperature Open Time (70 to 77 ˚F or 21 to 25 ˚C) | Exceeds 65 min |
| High Temperature Open Time (100 to 110 ˚F or 37 to 43 ˚C) | Exceeds 25 min |
| Adjustability | |
| Room Temperature Adjustability (70 to 77 ˚F or 21 to 25 ˚C) | Exceeds 35 min |
| High Temperature Adjustability (100 to 110 ˚F or 37 to 43 ˚C) | Exceeds 15 min |
| Sag on Vertical Services | 0 inch |
| Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) Approximate Coverage Rates | ||
|---|---|---|
| Application | 80 lb (36.2 kg) Bag | 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) Bag |
| Scratch Coat | 20 to 23 ft² (1.8 to 2.1 m²) | 750 to 860 ft² (70 to 80 m²) |
| Bonding Coat | 24 to 26 ft² (2.2 to 2.4 m²) | 900 to 975 ft² (84 to 91 m²) |
| Joint Grout - 1/2 in (13 mm) JOINTS | 38 to 40 ft² (3.5 to 3.7 m²) | 1,425 to 1,500 ft² (132 to 139 m²) |
| Full Installation (Scratch, Bond, Joint) | 13 to 15 ft² (1.2 to 1.4 m²) | 485 to 560 ft² (45 to 52 m²) |
| Note: The yields given above are approximate and depend on labor practices, site conditions and design of work. Yields include typical waste. Some areas such as FL, CA, OR, and WA experience higher yields due to construction practices. Please contact your local representative for more specific yield information in your area. | ||
Installation/Application (How to Install SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar
The proprietary design of SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar makes it versatile for use with all types of thin adhered masonry veneer units on both residential and commercial construction applications. When SPEC MIX PMAVM is properly used, it is the necessary solution to a high-quality durable thin veneer system. SPEC MIX PMAVM should be installed in accordance with the provisions of the local building codes and applicable ASTM standards. These products should also be installed in accordance with the instructions and requirements provided by the manufacturer of the thin stone or brick. Prior to installation, all surfaces should be clean of dust, debris, oil and residue, and washed before applying mortar.
Additional Installation Instructions
• Follow proper cold-weather and hot-weather masonry construction practices in the concrete masonry handbook as published by the Portland Cement Association when air temperature is below 40˚f (4˚c) or above 100˚f (38˚c) respectively.
• Control joints can be installed to mitigate the effects of support movement typically caused by seismic conditions, change in weather, shrinkage, and deflection. These should be installed in accordance with specifications of engineer, architect, designer and local building codes.
• For additional moisture protection, a masonry sealer can be applied to the joints according to manufacturer’s instructions. Consult with the veneer manufacturer for the compatibility of sealer with the unit.
• Prevent work from occurring on the opposite side of walls to which the veneer is being applied within 48 hours after and during installation.
• Where dissimilar materials abut the veneer, such as wood, metal or vinyl, leave a 1/2 in space to install backer rod and sealant.
INSTALLATION ON SHEATHED WOOD FRAME CONSTRUCTION
Install moisture barrier and metal lath according to manufacturer’s instructions. Install metal lath over the moisture barrier. Lathing material should conform to ASTM C 847 galvanized expanded metal lath or ASTM C 847 painted expanded metal lath. Use 2.5 lb galvanized expanded metal lath, 18 gauge woven wire mesh, or 3.4 lb galvanized expanded rib lath or consult local building codes for acceptable materials. Apply a scratch coat of SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar at a 3/8 to 1/2 inch (9.5 to 13 mm) minimum thickness to the metal lath. Before the mortar begins to harden, use a notched trowel to “scratch” the mortar surface. After a 24 hour curing period, install the veneer units to the scratch coat with SPEC MIX PMAVM by applying the mortar to the back of the unit at a minimum 1/2 in (13 mm) thickness and pressing it firmly up to the substrate. After pressing the unit, the distance from unit to substrate should be approximately 3/8 in (9.5 mm). Clean excess mortar from the sides of the unit. Wait preferably 24 hours for units to set before grouting joints. With a grout bag or pointing tool, apply standard SPEC MIX Adhered Veneer Mortar or SPEC MIX PMAVM mortar to the joints between the units. Once the joint grout has stiffened to the touch, rake with a jointing tool, then brush. Keep raking and tooling time consistent. Do not rake, tool and finish joints too early or too late as the color will not remain consistent throughout the project. Install a drainage plane system behind the lath for additional moisture protection.
INSTALLATION TO CONCRETE AND MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
Install the veneer units directly to clean and stable concrete or masonry surfaces with SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar by applying the mortar to the back of the unit at a minimum 1/2 in (13 mm) thickness and pressing it firmly up to the concrete or masonry substrate. After pressing the unit, the distance from unite to substrate should be approximately 3/8 in (9.5 mm). Clean excess mortar from the sides of the unit. If concrete or masonry surface contains paint, dirt, oil, grease or any other type of coating, the wall must be sandblasted to expose a clean concrete surface or the bond will be poor. ASTM C 847 compliant metal lath can be attached and a scratch coat of SPEC MIX PMAVM may be installed and cured in lieu of sandblasting. Wait preferably 24 hours for bonding mortar to cure before grouting the joints. With a grout bag or pointing tool, apply standard SPEC MIX Adhered Veneer Mortar or SPEC MIX PMAVM mortar to the joints between the units. Once the joint mortar has stiffened to the touch, rake with a jointing tool, then brush. Keep tooling and raking time consistent. Do not rake and tool joints too early or too late as the color will not remain consistent throughout the project.
MIXING INSTRUCTIONS
WEAR IMPERVIOUS GLOVES, such as nitrile.
When mixing SPEC MIX PMAVM, use a mechanical batch mixer or an electric drill with a paddle to ensure homogeneity and good board life.
1. Add each 80 lb (36.2 kg) bag of SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar to approximately 5.5 to 6.0 quarts (5.2 to 5.7 liters) of clean, potable water. Start with approximately 75% of the required water. (See chart for details)
2. During 3 to 5 minutes of initial mixing, add remaining water as necessary. (Water addition rates vary based on climate, installation method, and veneer type.)
3. Let the mortar rest for 2 minutes and then remix for at least 1 minute.
4. The workability of the mortar can be adjusted as necessary by adding either more water
or more powder prior to final mixing.
Mortar shall be used and placed in final position within one hour after initial mixing or discarded after that time period. Whenever possible, do not retemper colored SPEC MIX masonry mortars by adding additional water; retempering may affect color consistency. SPEC MIX products are custom packaged to the specification. They must be kept dry, covered and protected from weather and other damage.
| Adding Water to SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar (PMAVM) | |
|---|---|
| SPEC MIX PMAVM | Required Mixing Water |
| 80 lb (36.2 kg) Bag | 5.5 Quarts (5.2 Liters) |
| 3000 lb (1,360.7 kg) Bag | Contact Your Local SPEC MIX Representative |
| Note: Water addition rates can vary slightly based on climate, installation method, stone type, and regional differences. | |
PACKAGE SIZES AND DELIVERY EQUIPMENT
SPEC MIX Polymer Modified Adhered Veneer Mortar is available in 80 lb (36.2 kg) packages for easy hand loading. Also available in 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) reusable bulk bags to be used with the various SPEC MIX silo delivery systems. Once the bulk bags of mortar are delivered to the project site, load them into the portable silo with a jobsite forklift and dispense the product into a mechanical batch mixer.
SILO OPERATION
Space is a premium on most project sites. SPEC MIX silos are versatile and easily adapt to the diverse needs of mason contractors working on any site. The portable silos and bulk bags require no special equipment—only a standard forklift to lift and dispense the 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) bags or relocate the silo on site. Ranging in size from a pallet sized footprint to an 8 ft x 11 ft (2.4 m x 3.4 m ) footprint, SPEC MIX silos allow any contractor to use less space than traditional mixing stations. With various styles to choose from, our silo systems are ideal for interior work as well as exterior work. The dry, preblended material coupled with our unique silo allows work to continue through all seasons. With the SPEC MIX system, mason contractors can remain productive year round. No more frozen or water saturated sand piles that affect product quality and consistency — just add water and pull the silo’s handle—it’s that easy. Now getting quality, consistent mortar is simple, every job.