Eco-Flexi MCM Flexible Natural Stone™ — Technical Installation Manual

For Architects, Designers, and Contractors — Canada & USA

Scope

This manual provides step-by-step instructions for installing Eco-Flexi MCM™ Flexible Natural Stone on walls and ceilings. It ensures compliance with standard building codes in Alberta and is intended for use by qualified contractors, designers, and DIY installers familiar with cladding installation.

Surface Requirements & Substrate Guidelines

Acceptable Substrates:
- Concrete: Fully cured, structurally sound, smooth, and free of loose material. Level any irregularities >3 mm.
- Cement Backer Board (CBU): Securely fastened to framing, without cracks or loose sections.
- Gypsum Board / Drywall: Properly fastened, dry, and capable of supporting panel weight.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Panels rated for vertical wall installation, flat, dry, and supported.
- Existing Tiles or Bricks: Ensure tiles/bricks are firmly adhered; clean and lightly abraded for bonding.
- Plastered Walls: Fully cured, smooth, and structurally sound.
Restrictions / Not Recommended:
- Glass or mirrored surfaces — adhesion is insufficient.
- Suspended / hanging ceilings without solid framing — panels must be mounted to a sturdy, load-bearing frame.
General Requirements:
- Substrate must be clean, dry, and free from dust, grease, or loose material.
- Highly absorbent surfaces require a compatible primer.
- Substrate must safely support panel + adhesive weight over time.
Pro Tip: Think of each panel as a piece of suspended art — proper backing prevents sagging, cracking, or detachment.

Panel Preparation

Trim panels with an angle grinder with a diamond blade or a handheld oscillating saw.
Cut from the decorative face side to minimize chipping.
Dry-fit panels to confirm layout and alignment.
Mark reference lines on the substrate for consistent joint spacing.
Avoid excessive handling; panels should remain flat and supported before installation.

Adhesive Application

Use polymer-modified stone adhesives or approved flexible tile adhesives.
Recommended adhesives (Canada / Alberta):
- MAPEI MegaLite® Ultimate Tile Mortar
- Polyblend® Professional Tile Adhesive
Mix adhesive per manufacturer instructions for smooth, lump-free consistency.
Apply evenly with a notched trowel (4–6 mm).
Install panels within the adhesive open time for optimal bond.

Seams and Corner Detailing — Natural Expression

Celebrate the natural seam: Panels may be butted directly, allowing veins, colour variations, and texture to flow organically. Over-engineering uniform joints is unnecessary — the natural alignment is part of the artistic design.
Optional open joints: Maintain 1.5–3 mm gaps if desired for design or grout effect; use colour-matched grout coordinated with the panel’s base tone.
Corner execution:
- For a clean transition, adjoining panels can be miter-cut at 45° and butt-joined, but natural alignment takes priority over rigid symmetry.
- Avoid visible overlapping steps on external and internal corners.
Do not force panels: Allow flexibility and natural variation to guide placement. Minor substrate irregularities enhance the organic look.
Consistency is subtle: Maintain general alignment without compromising the artistic expression of the stone.

Installation Technique

Apply adhesive to a small section of substrate.
Press panels gently using a rubber roller to remove trapped air.
Follow reference lines and natural seam flow.
Clean excess adhesive immediately from surfaces and joints.
Continue section by section under proper curing conditions (temperature, humidity, airflow).

Finishing Touches

Apply an approved stone sealer after the adhesive has fully cured.
Inspect edges and joints for proper adhesion.
Remove protective masking and clean the surface with pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaners.

Maintenance & Longevity

Routine cleaning with soft cloths and mild cleaners.
Avoid acidic or abrasive products.
Reapply sealant as needed based on environmental exposure.
Inspect annually for detachment, wear, or seal degradation.

Safety Precautions

Use PPE: gloves, dust mask, safety glasses.
Ensure proper ventilation when cutting or mixing adhesives.
Store panels flat, dry, and protected from direct sunlight.
Follow Alberta building codes, occupational health & safety, and site-specific regulations.

Compliance Note

Installations must conform to NBC‑AE (National Building Code – Alberta Edition) and NFC‑AE (National Fire Code – Alberta Edition), as well as applicable Western Canada building regulations for wall and ceiling cladding systems.
Key references:
- NBC‑AE Division B, Article 3.1.5.5 – Combustible cladding on exterior walls.
- NBC‑AE Division B, Article 3.1.5.6 – Combustible components in exterior wall assemblies.
- NBC‑AE Subsection 9.10.14 – Exposing building faces and non-combustible cladding conditions.
  - Article 9.10.14.2 – Fire-resistance requirements for exterior wall assemblies.
  - Article 9.10.14.5 – Restrictions for combustible components in certain locations.
- NFC‑AE – Fire-safety performance requirements for exterior cladding and facades.
Contractor responsibility: Verify project-specific code compliance, including substrate preparation, material performance, fire-safety ratings, and structural support, before installation.