HOW TO INSTALL STONE VENEER

Discover the joy of transforming your space with the timeless elegance of stone veneer! At Source for Stone, we believe that every homeowner and DIY enthusiast has the ability to create stunning and professional-looking installations. That’s why we recommend following our detailed Source for Stone Installation Guide that will ensure a successful outcome and will stand the test of time!

Before getting started, we recommend referring to your local building codes as code requirements may vary by City and Province. This will ensure you meet the necessary safety standards, legal requirements, and environmental considerations that will help protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your installation.

Here is a brief overview of how to install stone veneer. Please refer to our detailed Source for Stone Installation Guide for complete installation instructions.

STEP 1: PLAN

Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to gather the right amount of stone and materials required for installation.

Quantity of Stone

To determine the quantity of stone required for your project, measure the dimensions of the area where you plan to install stone veneer. Be sure to follow our easy step -by step guide called How to Calculate How Much Stone I Need.

Gather Necessary Tools

You may need the following tools below to install stone veneer. Select the tools required for your specific application:

Installation Tools

  • Safety Glasses & Gloves
  • Dust Mask
  • Tape Measure
  • Hammer Type Stapler or Power Staple Gun
  • Wheelbarrow & Hoe
  • Hock & Trowel
  • Mason's Trowel
  • Margin Trowel
  • Whisk Broom
  • Masonry Brush
  • Level

Cutting Tools

  • Saw with Diamond Blade - Masonry, Circular, Table, or Wet
  • Grinder
  • Hatchet
  • Hardened Steel Chisel

Additional Materials

  • Sheathing Membrane
  • Mortar
  • Mortar Bonding Agents
  • Flashings
  • Weep Screeds
  • Lath
  • Fasteners for Attaching Lath

STEP 2: PREPARE

Next step is to prepare the area where you will be applying stone veneer.

Surface Preparation

Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and structurally sound. Remove any existing paint, wallpaper, or debris. Repair any cracks or damage to create a smooth and even surface.

Sheathing Membrane

Apply a waterproofing membrane or moisture barrier to the surface. This will help prevent moisture penetration and protect the integrity of the stone veneer. Not required if installing over cement board.

Lath

Install Lath. This will enhance the bond between the stone veneer and the substrate, create structural support, and meet code compliance. Not required if installing over cement board.

Scratch Coat

Apply scratch coat over lath. This is crucial to ensure the long-term stability, appearance, and performance of the stone veneer system. It will establish a strong bond, create an even surface, manage moisture, distribute the load evenly, enhance durability, and facilitate the installation process.

STEP 3: INSTALL

Now let's dive into the actual installation process!

Apply Mortar

Using a trowel, spread a layer of mortar onto the back of the panelized stone veneer. Ensure full coverage to get all 4 sides evenly.

Start with Corners

Start with the corner pieces of the course first. Then place the adjacent bottom course of flat stones. Remove excess mortar on the top edges of placed stones to allow tight fitting of the next course.

Build Your Way Up

Place the remaining courses of corner and flat stones working inward towards the center of the wall. Be sure to stagger flat stones to avoid long running vertical joints.

Cut and Trim

Use a saw with a diamond blade to cut or trim panels as needed to fit around corners, edges, or openings. Ensure precise cuts for a professional finish.

Finishing Touches

After the mortar has dried, clean the surface of the stone veneer with a soft brush or sponge to remove any remaining grout residue. Stand back and admire your newly installed panelized stone veneer.

We recommend following our detailed Source for Stone Installation Guide for step-by-step instructions on how to install stone veneer. Each product may have specific installation requirements, so if you have any questions, please be sure to reach out to our customer service team for guidance.