Applying most stone veneers is more an art form then it is a real science. The basic idea is to create a thing that is natural looking rather than artificial in form. Understanding what it really is and how it is made will help the average house owner achieve success that may be just as fine as by professionals. It can also help to understand the basic application techniques. Though as was stated before it really is more of an art form than science as every piece is different.
Stone veneers are typically used as protective coverings for surfaces that are inside as well as those outside applications. They can also be used as visual enhancements for fireplaces, walls and pillars. Stone is naturally durable and adds a natural looking beauty to most any project.
Manufactured stone veneer is made from molds of real stones using an aggregate that is generally much lighter than real stones. Because they are much lighter in weight they are often easier to install with adhesive and mortar. Often they can be located in places where natural stone is not an option because of their lighter weight. They also generally have a more uniform shape and size so the installation can go much quicker.
Natural stone veneer is real stone that is collected from fields or dug up in quarries. It is typically cut to a consistent shape and size before being shipped to stores. Because of its greater weight it generally requires ties for installation as well as larger footings at the base of the walls.
Typically manufactured veneer can be more inexpensive versus natural stones. It typically will price at one half to one third price of most natural stones. It is also easier to install due to being a cast type stone, there is often a good deal less waste afterward.
Installing any stone veneer is a generally a simple process which is the same for most natural and man made stone. Cover the vertical surface with a metal lath for structural support by using nails and screws which are no less than 1 1/2 to 2 inches long. Do not place your nails and screws further than 6 inches from each other in the wall. Ensure all joints are completely overlapped, and do not leave seams on corners as this will cause a structural weakness.
Apply a thin layer of mortar scratch coat on the metal lath and let it dry completely. Ensure the lathing is totally covered up. Before it dries out, scratch horizontal lines into it using a small rake or a mason's scratcher.
Dry fit the stones 6 to 8 a time for safety. Apply about 1/2 to 1/3 inch of good mortar on the back of your stones and place them on the your wall. Gentility work in the stones while firmly holding them until they are set in place.
To finish your art work after everything has dried up nicely, go over your joints pushing the mortar as far into them as possible. Most stone veneers can be treated with a sealer to stop discoloration and other undesirable effects. Ultimately your new artwork is only as far away as the local hardware store.
Stone veneers are typically used as protective coverings for surfaces that are inside as well as those outside applications. They can also be used as visual enhancements for fireplaces, walls and pillars. Stone is naturally durable and adds a natural looking beauty to most any project.
Manufactured stone veneer is made from molds of real stones using an aggregate that is generally much lighter than real stones. Because they are much lighter in weight they are often easier to install with adhesive and mortar. Often they can be located in places where natural stone is not an option because of their lighter weight. They also generally have a more uniform shape and size so the installation can go much quicker.
Natural stone veneer is real stone that is collected from fields or dug up in quarries. It is typically cut to a consistent shape and size before being shipped to stores. Because of its greater weight it generally requires ties for installation as well as larger footings at the base of the walls.
Typically manufactured veneer can be more inexpensive versus natural stones. It typically will price at one half to one third price of most natural stones. It is also easier to install due to being a cast type stone, there is often a good deal less waste afterward.
Installing any stone veneer is a generally a simple process which is the same for most natural and man made stone. Cover the vertical surface with a metal lath for structural support by using nails and screws which are no less than 1 1/2 to 2 inches long. Do not place your nails and screws further than 6 inches from each other in the wall. Ensure all joints are completely overlapped, and do not leave seams on corners as this will cause a structural weakness.
Apply a thin layer of mortar scratch coat on the metal lath and let it dry completely. Ensure the lathing is totally covered up. Before it dries out, scratch horizontal lines into it using a small rake or a mason's scratcher.
Dry fit the stones 6 to 8 a time for safety. Apply about 1/2 to 1/3 inch of good mortar on the back of your stones and place them on the your wall. Gentility work in the stones while firmly holding them until they are set in place.
To finish your art work after everything has dried up nicely, go over your joints pushing the mortar as far into them as possible. Most stone veneers can be treated with a sealer to stop discoloration and other undesirable effects. Ultimately your new artwork is only as far away as the local hardware store.
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