Natural Stone veneer setter/contractor/stonemason installation article on Natural Stone Veneer setting


How to Install Natural Stone Veneer on a Concrete Wall
Natural stone veneer is a beautiful and durable option for adding a touch of elegance and charm to your home. Whether you want to create a stunning accent wall, a cozy fireplace surround, or a stylish backsplash, natural stone veneer can help you achieve your desired look. However, installing natural stone veneer on a concrete wall requires some preparation and skill to ensure a successful and lasting result. Here are some steps to guide you through the process.
Make sure to inspect your natural stone veneer before delivery. Shape, size, (wavy or flat) and color will determine the look of your wall. Samples don't always match the natural stone veneer delivered.
Step 1: Separate the natural stone veneer in sizes and colors
Before you start installing the natural stone veneer, you need to sort out the stones according to their sizes and colors. This will help you create a balanced and harmonious pattern on your wall, as well as avoid wasting time and material during installation. You can lay out the stones on the floor or on a large table and group them by similar shapes, sizes, and shades. You can also dry-fit the stones on the wall to see how they look together and make any adjustments as needed.
Wash your wall from dust and grease before the installation of you natural stone veneer
Step 2: Wash the wall from dust and grease
The next step is to clean the concrete wall from any dust, grease, or other contaminants that might interfere with the adhesion of the natural stone veneer. You can use a broom, a vacuum cleaner, or a damp cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris from the wall surface. You can also use a mild detergent and water solution to scrub away any stains or grease marks from the wall. Rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely before proceeding.
Step 3: Choose and cut stones to install on the wall using thin set and mortar mix
Once the wall is clean and dry, you can start choosing and cutting the natural stone veneer to fit on the wall. You can use a wet saw or a grinder with a diamond blade to cut the natural stone veneer to the desired size and shape. Be sure to wear safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection when cutting the stones. You can also use a hammer and chisel to break off any excess material or create a more natural look.
To install the natural stone veneer on the wall, you need to use a thin set and mortar mix that is suitable for natural stone veneer. You can follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to prepare and apply the thin set and mortar mix. Generally, you need to spread a thin layer of thin set on the back of each stone using a notched trowel, then press it firmly onto the wall. You can also apply some thin set on the wall using a notched trowel before placing the stone. Make sure there are no air pockets or gaps between the stone and the wall.
Step 4: Back scratch the natural stone veneer and scratch the wall with thin set
One important step that many people overlook when installing natural stone veneer is back scratching. Back scratching is the process of scoring or scratching the back of each stone with a metal tool or a wire brush before applying thin set. This creates grooves or ridges on the back of the stone that help improve its bond with the thin set and the wall.
Similarly, you need to scratch the wall with thin set before placing the stone veneer. This means applying a thin layer of thin set on the wall using a notched trowel, then scraping it with another notched trowel or a metal rake to create grooves or ridges on the wall surface. This helps increase the surface area and adhesion of the thin set and prevents it from sliding off.
Back scratching both the stones and the wall with thin set is essential for ensuring a strong and durable installation of natural stone veneer.
Step 5: Finish and seal your natural stone veneer
After installing all the stones on your concrete wall, you need to finish and seal your natural stone veneer to protect it from moisture, stains, and weathering. You can use a grout bag or a trowel to fill in any gaps or joints between the stones with mortar mix. You can also use a jointing tool or your finger to smooth out any excess mortar and create a uniform look.
Once the mortar is dry, you can use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or residue from your natural stone veneer. You can also use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe off any mortar stains or smears from your stones.
Finally, you need to apply a sealer that is designed for natural stone veneer on your concrete wall. You can follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to apply and cure the sealer. A sealer will help enhance

Here under is a picture of our natural stone veneer mason/installer/contractor splitting the natural stone veneer



Here under is a picture of a Natural stone veneer half wall capped installation

Here under is a picture of a natural stone veneer Pony wall capped with Blue stones installation



Silica Dust Facts:
Silica is one of the most abundant naturally occurring minerals in the world.
1. Amorphous and crystalline are the two types of silica.
2. Dust produced by mechanical action on silica-containing materials is a known health hazard.
3. Quartz is the most common form of respirable crystalline silica. It is in numerous everyday products, including art clays and glazes, caulk, cleansers, cosmetics, paint, pet litter and talcum powder. When inhaled, dust particles settle deep in the lungs. This can contribute to elevated rates of lung cancer, particularly among individuals with consistent occupational or environmental exposure to silica dust.
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