Issues over consistency in cast stone manufacturing have prompted the UK Cast Stone Association (UKCSA) to produce a new generic specification for this hugely popular building material.

The Specification for Cast Stone tackles the need for high product strength and high operating standards, including independently verified testing regimes and reporting.

UKCSA has previously urged building professionals to implement caution when specifying cast stone as most British manufacturers operate without adequate quality assurance or testing regimes, and may not be working to proper standards. Using stone from this type of producer could result in poor product performance and site handling, leading to costly remedial action or claims.

Last year, many manufacturers were forced to raise their game when the British Standard for cast stone, BS1217, was updated to reflect changes in the market and the product.

Now, with the launch of the Specification for Cast Stone, there is no reason at all why building professionals must take a chance on the quality of their cast stone.

“It’s critical that people can trust what they’re buying,” says UKCSA Chairman, Andy Cotton. “The updated British Standard was a much needed tightening of the regulations, driven by UKCSA. But cast stone produced by UKCSA members exceeds these requirements and the new Specification for Cast Stone ensures that building professionals are getting the best product and service.”

Cast stone produced by UKCSA members is at least 40% stronger than the requirements of the updated standard and it’s backed by rigorously monitored quality assurance and testing – the results of which must be logged with UKCSA. This means customers can count on outstanding strength and durability, better site-handling and better buildability.