How to Lay Limestone Blocks
Limestone is a durable rock surface that takes many years to form and won't fall apart when exposed to outside elements. It offers a nice natural look to the landscaping and is a good choice for landscape borders and small walls. Laying the limestone blocks is not difficult and is done in the same manner as laying bricks with staggered rows for support. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Dig a trench for the limestone wall that is slightly wider than the blocks and 8 inches deep. Use a flat-edged shovel. Check it with a level to ensure that it is flat.
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2
Fill the trench with 4 inches of sand.
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3
Place the first stone in place at the beginning of the trench. Spread a mortar mix along the side of the stone that faces the rest of the trench.
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4
Place the next stone next to the first so that it presses up against the mortar. Use the tip of a trowel to scrape off excess mortar that oozes out the seam between the two stones.
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5
Place a level on top of the two stones to make sure they are level. If they're not, remove a stone and either add or take away sand to adjust, then put it back in place. Repeat steps 3 through 5 along the length of the wall.
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6
Cut the first stone on the second row in half with a diamond-tipped blade. By doing this the second row will develop a staggered look similar to bricks. This is needed for structural integrity. You can use the other half of the block on the other end of the wall, which will also need a half block.
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7
Spread mortar on top of the first row, working with only a few blocks at a time. Place the first half block on the end of the wall and spread mortar on its side that is facing the rest of the wall.
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8
Set the second block next to the first and wipe off excess mortar with the trowel. Check the stones to ensure they are level. Press down on the one that is higher, if there is a need. It will push some more of the mortar out and lower the block. Continue with the rest of the wall in the same way. Repeat with the rest of the rows in the wall for as high as you want it to go. Usually landscape borders are only 2 or 3 rows high.
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Tips & Warnings
To make the stones turn a curve, angle them slightly as you go along the row.
