Anchors & Fasteners - generally refer to mechanical installation techniques for slate panels on vertical installations. Stainless steel is recommended for exterior installations. A minimum of four (4) anchors per stone up to twelve (12) square feet in area is recommended, with two (2) additional anchors for every additional eight (8) square feet in area. Weight, wind load, shear factors, etc. should be considered to determine the size and number of mechanical anchors.

Relieving Angles - Relieving angles are recommended at each "story" height and over any window or door opening. Weep holes should be considered at vertical joints to allow any water infiltration to drain. When using continuous relieving angles, it may be advantageous to drill the angle for weep purposes. Relieving angles support the weight of the stone by supporting either the bottom of the panel or a stone liner attached to the back of the panel.

Dowels - Dowels are usually used at vertical / horizontal joints between panels to align the panels and maintain the proper distance between the panel and backup structure. Dowels should not be used to support weight.

Tie-backs - Tie-backs are usually threaded rods or eye-type bolts which attach to the steel structure with washers and nuts. The un-threaded ends are sometimes "turned" into a dowel hole or an "eye" to engage a dowel pin.