Install Cultured Stone on an Outside Wall

Stone is a commonly used material for cladding walls, both interior and exterior, and has proven effective for just about every condition. The application of natural stone can be difficult and costly, as natural shapes of stone are unpredictable. Cultured stone is designed for generally simple application, typically at a lower cost than natural stone. The addition of cultured stone to an outside wall can add an aesthetic that rivals that of natural stone. Installing cultured stone is a generally straightforward task that can be completed by just about anyone with basic construction knowledge and equipment. 

Instructions as follows:

Firstly, fasten the galvanized metal lath by driving the 1-inch nails and washers into the stone wall at about 16-inches on-center, using the framing hammer. Trim the lath to fit using the metal cutting sheers, as necessary.

Secondly, prepare the mortar mix as directed on the mortar packaging, in the wheel barrow using the shovel.

Thirdly, evenly apply a layer of mortar to the lath, using the concrete float trowel. This layer of mortar is called the "scratch coat" and should be about 1/8-inch thick--just thicker than the metal lath. Allow the mortar scratch coat to fully cure as directed on mortar packaging before moving on.

Fourthly, apply about a 1-inch thick layer of mortar to the back of a culture stone, using the brick trowel.

Fifthly, press the stone to the bottom edge of the wall hard enough so the gap between the stone and the wall is about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.