9025 NE Bothell Way Bothell WA 98011
1. Plywood
2. Vapor Barrier
This consists of 2 layers or a weather resistant barrio. Tyvek or felt paper are the most common. Staple vapor barrier making sure that you overlap the paper on the top over the paper on the bottom by at least 3 inches. Locate and mark studs. This will help when you fasten the wire lath.
3. Weep screen
This is a metal piece that goes at the bottom of the stone and used to push moisture away from the stone.
4. Drain Mat
Drain Mat allows water vaper to evaporate by providing air flow. In a modern house it is so tight that adding the drain Mat is essential.
5. Wire Lath
Nail the wire lath using 1 1/4 inch roofing nails. Nail every 6 inches. Make sure to wrap around each outside corner at least 16 inches in both directions if possible. Overlap between section at least 2".
Note: It is not necessary to install wire lath over masonry walls such as brick, block or concrete, as long as they are clean, free of chemicals and not sealed or painted. If the masonry has been sealed or painted, you may use wire lath and a scratch coat.
6. Scratch Coat
You will use the same mortar for the scratch coat, stone and grout (type S mortar). Apply a coat of mortar over the wire lath. Make sure to cover the wire with an even coat of mortar. Using a notched trowel, apply horizontal lines to the scratch coat. Allow mortar to dry before installing the stone.
7. Applying Superior Stone
Apply the stone from the top down. This helps to keep your work cleaner. If you are dry stacking the stone, you may want to go from the bottom up. Apply about 1/2 inch of mortar to the back of the stone. Make sure to cover the back of the entire stone. Press the stone into place, moving it side to side to ensure a good bond. You can use a hammer or diamond blade saw to cut the pieces to fit.
8. Grouting/Finishing the Joints
Make your mortar a little wetter than you use for laying the stone. Using a grout bag, fill each joint with mortar. After you have let the joints get firm, you need to rake out the excess mortar. This can be done with a tuck pointing tool. After you get the joints to look nice and consistent, you will want to sweep the joints with a whiskbroom. This is the final step to completing your project.