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Tips & Techniques for Cultured Stone or Rock Application by Vicky Smith
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Tips & Techniques for Cultured Stone or Rock Application |
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Business
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When creating a stone front wall or fireplace, many homeowners opt for cultured stone over real stone because it is usually more affordable and is easier to install but still gives a natural appearance. While applying culture stone to a surface may be easier than applying real stone, it is important to use the proper techniques when installing the product or the cultured stone can look unnatural. With the proper technique you should wind up with a surface that looks just like real stone. Mesh Lath on Unfresh Walls When applying cultured stone to stone walls, you must ensure that the stones are adhered to a solid foundation. Unless you are applying cultured stone to a fresh or clean, unsealed masonry wall, you must place expanded diamond mesh lath on the wall to provide an easier surface for the mortar and stone to grip. You must apply mesh to any wall that is already painted as well. Prior to securing the mesh to the wall, apply a moisture barrier product such as waterproof building paper or asphalt-saturated felt paper to prevent possible damage from water or humidity. Galvanized Materials When selecting diamond mesh lath and nails for cultured stone application, choose galvanized products. Galvanized products are coated with a zinc material that helps them resist corrosion and rust. Using non-galvanized mesh and nails for a cultured stone project may make stones fall off the surface if the materials begin to rust. In addition, rust stains may begin to show through mortar as the products begin to corrode, ruining the look of your cultured stone surface. Mortar Consistency When applying cultured stone to a wall, fireplace or other surface, mortar is the adhesive. Mixing the mortar to the right consistency is extremely important because mortar that is too thin may drip and run down the surface, while mortar that is too thick may dry out and crumble. Aim for a mortar mixture that is similar in consistency to cake batter. In most cases, you will likely need to experiment to determine the proper ratio of mortar, water and mortar color. Once you determine the proper amounts, make a note of them so you can use the same recipe for all batches of mortar that you require. Mix the mortar well so there are no clumps in the mixture. When applying the mortar to the wall, work from the top down, because the process can be somewhat messy and mortar may fall on previously laid cultured stones if you work in the opposite direction. Whisk Broom Joint Cleaning Once you have placed all your stones and the mortar has hardened between the joints, use a metal jointing tool or wooden stick to strike the joints. Striking the joint helps to compress and shape the mortar so it has a pointed, finished appearance. For a successfully struck joint, pull the jointing tool or stick along the joint to compact the mortar and create an edge. To give the project a truly finished appearance, use a whisk broom to compact the mortar and seal it in place. Make sure that the mortar is completely dried before using the broom or you may brush mortar onto the stones. If you do not have a whisk broom, a stencil brush from the craft store also works effectively. In short, as an experienced business E-platform of promoting stone industry, we want to match global supply and demand resources and promoting the mutual prosperity and development for worldwide stone industry trade. If you are interested in us and want to consult us freely, you can also see cubic stone or become an honest follower of us by @ https://twitter.com/stonebtb.
Related Articles -
culture stone, stone wall,
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