Stone Installation

[Farmboy1]

I have a question for a mason.

I have an exterior block fireplace chase that I would like to wrap with a stone product (problably cultured). Do I need to install mesh and a skim coat, or can I directly apply this to the block?

[sparcebag]

I'm not a mason but if ya get cultured,directions should come with it or ask where your buying it,Lots of what I've seen glue on then a mortor and wash.Which goes directly on block.

[CFRay]

Because its a chimney and will heat up/cool down very often I'd recommend the mesh and plaster technique. Any other block wall would be O.K. to apply the plaster coat directly to the masonry.

You could secure the wire mesh with Tapcons,(add a washer under the Tapcon head)or a .25 cal powder fastener like Remington. Don't bother bending a piece around the corners, just apply flat sheets to the sides. Take your time and you can do it. Like putting together a puzzle when you were a kid. You'll need corner pieces and flats. Use the premix stone veneer mortar.

Everybody sells mfg. stone stone now,(Menards, HD, FF). Maybe your chosen supplier has a demo. display to look at. Manufacturers directions aren't always clear to first time users.

[Farmboy1]

Thanks guys. I was leaning towards skiming the whole thing, but was a little unsure. I guess one more project that needs to happen pretty shortly.

[fishin4fun85]

ya using a mesh for any rock project like that will yield a better all around finish and make it last a little longer....like CFRay said....have fun with the puzzle and be crative!!

[hitthebricks]

Another tip for ya, Use a grout bag for filling the joints between the stones, then wait for the mortar to setup before tooling the joints, this will help you get a cleaner looking job.