Installing Mountain Stone is easy. The best way to start any project is to organize all the necessary materials and tools needed. For your convenience, we have outlined the materials and tools for Mountain Stone projects.

Materials

• 15 lb. felt or tilath available from Mountain Stone
• Felt staples
• 2 1/2 lbs galvanized metal lath
• 1 3/4" roofing nails or 1" x 2" staples
• Type "S" mortar
• Brick sand
• Water
• Type N mortar (for grout joints)
• Mountain Stone (Dealers will help you determine the quantity for your project.)

Tools

• Staple gun
• Hammer
• 12" x 4" concrete finishing trowel and mud hawk
• Wheel barrow (6 cubic foot capacity)
• Shovel
• Masonry trowel
• Grout bag
• Tuckpointer
• Whisk broom
• Mortar hoe
• 4' level

Step 1 - Before starting the project, it is helpful to preplan by organizing the loose stones into the desired pattern.

Step 2 - Mix thoroughly one part Type "S" mortar to 1 1/2 parts sand. Add water to achieve a thick "milkshake" consistency.

Step 3 - (If applying stone over clean masonry surface, skip to Step 5.) Apply felt and metal lath with cups facing down. Rubbing your hand downward will feel smooth. Rubbing your hand upward will feel rough. Overlap lathe one inch. Determine if the base is wood or masonry, and select the proper nails or staples to attach the lath.

Step 4 - Apply a base coat of Type "S" mortar and let dry for 10 - 12 hours.

Step 5 - Cover the back of each stone with 1/2" of Type "S" mortar.

Step 6 - Beginning at the corner, press each stone with a wiggling motion to achieve a sound bond. To keep stones clean, start at the top and work down.

Step 7 - For grouting purposes use Type "N" mortar.

Step 8 - Fill each "joint" using the grout bag like a cookie decorator.

Step 9 - Use a rounded wooden tool to strike or smooth each joint. Press gently and smoothly to fill grout voids and remove excess mortar. The mortar should be firm enough not to stain the stone.

Step 10 - Remove loose mortar with a soft brush.