Things You'll Need:
- WIRE MESH
- roofing nails
- spec mix or thinset
- rock
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Step 1
Put up a moisture barrier. Tyvek and other house wrap manufacturers make a product for this.
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Step 2
Apply wire mesh. Make sure grooves are up so it will hold the spec mix. Nail this on at about every 6 inches.
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Step 3
Now you are ready to thin coat mesh or scratchcoat it. Mix your spec mix to a consistantcy about like peanut butter. spread on wire mesh with a trowel working it in to the mesh. This is just a light layer that just covers the wire mesh. Allow to dry.
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Step 4
When dry you are ready to put stone on. Open several boxes of stone and spread out so you can pick ones that fit more tightly and evenly together. Start from the top and work your way down. You start at top so if you get one to slide it does not ruin everything. Apply spec mix to back of rock and put in place. continue all the way down wall, fireplace, wainscoat or whatever your working on. Choose a desired spacing and stick with it. Consistancy makes it look more professional.
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Step 5
When stone is all up you are readt to grout. Use a grout bag and squeeze grout inbetween stone. Let dry to a workable consistancy.
Now you can tool smooth or evenly. Metal tool or carpenters pencil, or even a small piece of wood will do this. I like to use a heavy rubber glove to smooth out the grout. Use a medium brush to clean up rocks and leftover grout. Seal if desired
