The industry of home architecture has been flourishing with innovative concepts. These relatively integral features of home architecture continue to popularize their newly introduced concepts in a significant manner. Stone Veneer is one of the most important features of home architecture in the contemporary world. There are various advantages of stone veneers. With these advantages, stone veneers have become quite popular. Stone Veneers are best installed with the help of a professional. However in some cases, they can be installed under a comprehensive guidance by the homeowners themselves. Let us examine some of the most common tips and features to installing stone veneer which can help homeowners with easy application.
First of all, you must apply your corner first by alternating the long and short returns. You also must ensure that you keep your stone work level. To do this, you snap a chalk line every 4 to 6 inches and use a level to check stones as you apply them. Next, you use a trowel edge, nippers or other sharp or blunt tool to trim the stones. For straight cuts, use a diamond or carbide saw blade. And then conceal trimmed edges with grouting or hide them by turning the cut side upward above eye level or downward below eye level.
You should avoid long sections of straight, unbroken grout lines in standard grout installations. Be sure to use a consistent joint width. A half-inch thickness or less is standard. When installing in a dry, hot climate or onto extremely dry surfaces, be sure to wet the stone and the wall first so they do not absorb moisture from the mortar. You can spray or otherwise apply water onto the back of the stone or dip it into water. Spray or brush water onto the wall as well. Allow both to dry a few minutes to remove excess water.
If any mortar accidentally falls on the face of a stone during installation, do not wipe it off. It will smear and discolor the stone. Instead, let it set 30 to 45 minutes, then brush it away with a dry whiskbroom. Avoid water runoff onto your installation. Divert water away with flashing, and/or gutters. Do not install below water level, and do not expose stone to chemicals that will stain it. Do not use wire brushes or acid on the stone surface out around the edges.
Do not use wet brushes or sponges to wipe mortar grouts. They will cause the mortar to smear and stain. Local building codes vary. Be sure to check the requirements in your area. Lay out the stone near your work area. As you install, choose. stones that vary in color, shape and size. Apply a half-inch layer of mortar to the entire back of the stone. Press the stone into place with a gentle back- and-forth motion until the mortar squeezes.