Hand Crafted Stone can be easily applied to any structurally sound surface without any wall ties, footings or structural supports necessary due to the stone's light weight.  Install the stone directly to the surface of any clean (unsealed, unpainted or untreated) brick, concrete block, or other masonry surface.  Metal lath must be applied first to all other surfaces.
   On metal surfaces, attach the lath with self-tapping screws every 16".  On wood surfaces, attach the lath by nailing or stapling on centers every 6", hitting studs whenever possible.  Always attach lath right side up with small cups pointing upward.  Building paper should be applied on outside surfaces prior to the lath.

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    Lay out stones randomly near your work area.  After choosing a stone, apply a 1/2" thick layer of mortar evenly on back of stone.

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    Always install corner stones first.  Apply remaining stones by working from the bottom up or top down.   Joints between stones should be as tight and uniform as possible.

    Press stone firmly into place with a gentle wiggling motion to promote bonding.  The mortar on back of stone should squeeze out and surround stone.

    When mortar joints are firm, use a wooden or metal striking tool and remove excess mortar.  At the same time, firmly press mortar into the joints so edges are thoroughly sealed.

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    Using a whick broom, brush mortar joints until smooth, and all loose mortar has been brushed away.  Brush off any loose mortar on face of stones.  Never let mortar set overnight before brushing.

    Clean any remaining grout off stone with a wire brush.  You may wish to apply a waterproof sealer such as Thoroclear or Chemstop to the surface of the stone, as sealed surfaces provide ease in cleaning.

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