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Stone Column Entryway Derek and Dean build granite stone columns with bluestone caps to create a grand backyard entry. From "Rock Solid" episode DROC-302

(Continued from page 2)

	Figure L
	Figure M

Set Stone Columns

• Now you're ready to set the stone over the brick skeleton. Select a piece for the cornerstone. Line it up with the string and the outside line that marks the 16-inch square for the column. Using your level, plumb the face and also check your plumb on the corner edge. You may need to use shims to keep the cornerstone in place (figure L).

• Since you want to set the corners before filling in the row, select the second cornerstone (figure M). You want to make sure that all the outside edges of the stone are perfectly straight and uniform. To do that, you have to cut. Before you cut your stone make sure you sharpen your carbide chisels.

• Take your square, find the shallowest point of the stone, line it up to the corner, and trace it with your pencil.
  

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  	Figure N
  	Figure O

• Mark an X on the area of stone you don't want. Repeat this process for the remaining three sides.

• Safety Alert: Be sure to put on your safety glasses for the next step!

• Select a carbide chisel and stone hammer that is appropriate for the size of the stone you're cutting. For smaller stones use a finish chisel and lighter weight hammer. For larger stones, select a heavy duty chisel and heavier hammer. Follow your pencil marks and score a line all the way around the stone (figure N). The final cut should be made along the narrowest edge (figure O).

Figure P
Figure Q

• When you are setting the first row of stones, check to make sure you are square as you turn the corner by measuring the column and making sure you're at 16 inches.

• After setting the corners, you'll need to fill in the row (figure P). Measure between the gaps to determine what size stones you need. Remember to subtract between a quarter-inch and half-inch on all sides for the joints. Mark and cut the stone as described above. When you come across wall ties, bend them down into the stone mortar.

• Continue working your way up the columns, setting the corners first and making sure they are plumb and vary in height in relation to the other corners (figure Q). Remember to mix up pieces between seam face and split face.
  

  Figure R

• As you're working, you may need to use shims to hold stones in place (figure R). For shims, you can use the chips of stone that come off when you cut, or you can use dry pieces of mortar.

• Regularly check the plumb as you set the veneer stones.

• After completing the first column, repeat the process for the second column.
  
  
  

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  RELATED PROJECTS: Dry-stack Wall: Measuring and Preparation Dry-stack Wall: Installing Granite Steps Dry-stack Wall: Footing, Specific Stones Dry-stack Wall: Building Fire-Pit: Measurement, Quarry Trip Fire-Pit: Prep Work Fire-Pit: Setting Stone Fire-Pit: Setting Capstones Outdoor Stone-Kitchen Bar and Grill

  
  

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  	Stone Column Entryway