Industry News

1. Definition of Stone Setting-out

1) Who is responsible for stone setting-out?

Setting-out work primarily falls under the responsibility of the construction team, with the stone processing manufacturer providing support. This process involves using design blueprints and actual on-site measurements to prepare cutting or material list drawings. The quality and methods of these outputs can vary depending on the capabilities of the construction team. The stone processing manufacturer's technical staff assists by offering solutions for methods and measurements, organizing fabrication drawings based on site surveys, and conducting on-site verification to ensure accuracy before final processing begins.

2) Importance of Stone Setting-out

The participation of the stone processing manufacturer in the setting-out process is critical. The objective of setting-out is to produce accurate processing drawings. Involvement in this process allows the manufacturer to understand and organize related drawings, which is essential for guiding production and ensuring accuracy.

3) Qualifications of Stone Setting-out Personnel

Setting-out personnel must meet the following requirements:

(1) Comprehensive understanding of stone processing techniques.

(2) Familiarity with mechanical and architectural design drawings.

(3) Knowledge of construction practices.

(4) Hands-on experience with stone installation.

(5) Basic proficiency in stone decoration design and the ability to offer creative suggestions that facilitate production and installation.

2. Preparatory Work Before Stone Setting-out

1) Finalization of Design Drawings

Ensure that the decoration design drawings, which comprehensively cover all materials and construction schemes, are finalized. Check that the drawings related to stone are complete before commencing setting-out.

2) Completion of Structural Work (Including Interior Partition Walls)

Any modifications or additional structural work must be completed before setting-out begins.

3) Establishment of Horizontal Levels and Elevations

Accurate baseline measurements are essential. For instance, floor-to-floor heights must be measured precisely using two-floor reference points. The difference between design and structural dimensions should be verified on-site.

4) Confirmation of Door and Window Frame Positions

Since door and window openings in structural work are often adjusted, ensure the specifications and positions are finalized before setting-out.

5) Waterproofing and Final Surface Determination in Bathrooms

Bathrooms must be waterproofed and finished surfaces confirmed before proceeding.

6) Clear Stone Installation Plan

Wall stone installation methods (e.g., dry hanging or wet pasting) determine the final surface dimensions and the boundary lines of the ground surface.

3. Stone Setting-out for Exterior Walls

Exterior wall stone installation often uses dry hanging or back-bolt methods.

Steps:

(1) Familiarize yourself with design drawings, including plans, elevations, and sectional details.

(2) Ensure that the steel framework is completed as it serves as a more precise reference than structural work. Verify the framework against design details before measuring stone dimensions.

(3) Measure horizontal and vertical dimensions systematically, dividing areas into independent sections. Ensure precise measurements for window locations and alignments using detailed sectional references.

(4) Create drawings based on the measurements and develop stone segmentation and layout plans. Adjust panel specifications to balance material yield and design integrity.

(5) Account for material expansion and joint gaps during segmentation to finalize cutting dimensions accurately.

4. Stone Setting-out for Lobbies (Floors and Walls)

Lobby areas require special attention due to their prominent visual impact. Typically, walls are set out first, by floors.

1) Wall Installation:

Dry or wet hanging methods are used based on project requirements. Dry hanging offers superior results but requires more space and cost.

Confirm measurements by projecting completed wall lines onto the ground for verification. Ensure accurate height and position alignments for features like doors and fire hydrants.

2) Floor Installation:

Use coordinate systems for irregularly shaped or large areas, selecting appropriate central reference points and baselines.

Align segmentation plans with the designer's specifications, optimizing material yield while maintaining aesthetic consistency.

5. Stone Setting-out for Elevator Areas

Elevator areas, as high-traffic zones, demand high standards for both material processing and installation.

Process:

(1) Mark completed wall lines, including elevator frame finishes, to ensure precise positioning.

(2) Collaborate with design teams to simplify installation while retaining the intended aesthetic.

(3) Address special design considerations, such as integrated corner treatments or complex patterns, to achieve seamless results.

6. Stone Setting-out for Bathrooms

Bathroom stonework primarily involves walls and floors in different functional zones (e.g., bathroom, WC, and shower room).

Process:

(1) Identify all areas requiring stone finishes based on design drawings.

(2) Measure and mark lines for each zone, considering the placement of fixtures like bathtubs and washbasins.

(3) Ensure compatibility between stone materials and sanitary ware, considering dimensions, cut-outs, and installation details.

(4) Determine thresholds and finish lines after door frames are installed.

7. Stone Setting-out for Columns

Columns typically consist of bases, shafts, and capitals, requiring precise setting-out for seamless installation.

Steps:

(1) Verify dimensions using construction and design drawings.

(2) Check for structural irregularities and adjust measurements accordingly.

(3) Mark finished lines on-site, ensuring alignment with design specifications.

(4) For cylindrical columns, calculate diameters and circumferences based on measured perimeters, and cross-check vertical alignment with plumb lines.

8. Stone Setting-out for Curved Walls

Curved walls, especially those with complex profiles, require detailed measurements and segmentation.

Steps:

(1) Determine radii using chord and arc height or establish a coordinate system for multi-radius curves.

(2) Mark and verify design profiles on-site to ensure accurate completion lines.

(3) Segment curved surfaces into manageable sections for precise processing and installation.

9. Stone Setting-out for Spiral Staircases

Spiral staircases involve intricate measurements for horizontal and vertical alignment.

Steps:

(1) Analyze construction and design drawings to determine step dimensions and railing details.

(2) Project stair profiles onto the ground using plumb lines to establish baseline measurements.

(3) Verify platform and step elevations using leveling instruments.

(4) Draft detailed plans for finished surfaces, including handrails and decorative elements.

(5) Coordinate closely with installers to ensure seamless transitions at joints and corners.

(6) By adhering to these guidelines, the setting-out process ensures the accuracy and quality of stone processing and installation, thereby enhancing the overall project outcome.