DIY Network

Houseboat Thin Stone Veneer Stone veneer — It's not just for landlubbers, as Derek and Dean prove in this Rock Solid project that takes place on board a houseboat. From "Rock Solid" episode DROC-310

(Continued from page 2)

Mixing Mortar For The Stonework

When you mix the mortar for the stonework, use a liquid bonding agent to add to the mortar instead of water. This liquid additive helps give extra strength to the mortar and keeps it pliable.

advertisement

Figure M

Cutting and Setting The Stonework

Now, it's time to start setting stone. Buechel Stone provides corners and flat pieces in various sizes so you can make the pattern you want. Set down a drop cloth to protect the floor.

Dean and Derek start with the largest wall. First they set the corner pieces up the length of the wall (figure M) and then fill in the field. Start at the bottom and work your way up. Dean and Derek set the first piece a little bit above the carpet so if it needs to be removed, it won't disturb the stonework. To set the stones, butter the back with a thick layer of mortar and press each stone firmly into place.

Tip: This stone is heavy, so Dean and Derek suggest adding a screw underneath a few stones for extra support.

Vary the size and color of the corner stones to create a toothed pattern. You don't want a continuous joint running down the vertical length of the wall. You also may need to cut one side of the corners so it fits in place. Measure and mark a line where you need to cut. Make sure the stone doesn't interfere with door hinges or drawers. On the large wall, the corner is only three inches and you want all the stones along this edge to be the same size. Use a framing square to draw a straight line on the back of the stone.

Figure N

Use a grinder with a diamond blade to make cuts. Always wear a mask and safety glasses when cutting (figure N). Take your time as you cut. Score a line with the grinder first. Then go over it again pushing down gradually until you've cut the stone.

	Figure O
	Figure P

Once the corners are in place, set the field (figure O). Vary the sizes and colors to create a balanced, natural looking pattern (figure P). Avoid creating long continuous joints. If you need to cut a stone to fit, you can use a chipping hammer or the grinder. This stone is limestone and will snap along a straight edge if you cut it with a chipping hammer. But it is a dense stone, so sometimes it's easier to use a grinder if you need a stone to be a specific size.

As you're setting, try to maintain recessed joints so you have less work to do when jointing. The recessed joints show off the stonework. To keep the stones from moving while the mortar cures, use shims to hold things in place.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4