Stone veneer is a popular choice for home exteriors and interior walls because of its natural beauty and durability. If you have a concrete or cinder block wall that you want to cover with stone veneer, you may wonder if it’s possible and the right choice for your project.
You can put a stone veneer over concrete or cinder block surfaces. Stone veneer is a great option for homeowners who want to add a sleek, natural look to their homes. Stone veneer can give your concrete or cinder block foundation a new lease on life with its rich color and sturdy, natural look.
It also makes for a great base for herb gardens or other outdoor projects since the surface area of the material is large enough to hold lots of plants without leaving any gaps between them. It will help add value to your home by adding architectural interest and an upscale feel that will increase the value of your property.
However, you must prepare the surface before installation to ensure the stone veneer adheres properly and lasts for a long time. You’ll require a concrete bonding agent and a concrete resurfacer to create a smooth and even surface.
Should You Put Stone Veneer Over Concrete/Cinder Block?
Installing stone veneer over concrete or cinder block can add a touch of natural beauty and warmth to a space. It can also increase the value of your home by enhancing its curb appeal. In addition, stone veneer is generally more durable and easier to maintain than real stone, which can be heavy and prone to cracking.
There are a few potential issues to consider before deciding to put a stone veneer over a concrete or cinder block, including the wall’s strength, the surface condition, and the likelihood of water damage.
The strength of the wall: If the wall is not strong enough to support the weight, it could crack or collapse, causing damage to your home. Stone veneer is significantly lighter than real stone, but it is still relatively heavy compared to other building materials.
The condition of the surface: The surface’s condition will determine the result’s quality. The wall’s surface must be clean and free of cracks or imperfections for the veneer to adhere properly. If the surface is damaged or uneven, achieving a smooth, even finish with the veneer may be difficult.
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Water damage: You must also watch out for water damage on the veneer. Concrete and cinder block are both porous materials that can absorb water, which can cause damage to the veneer if not properly sealed. It’s important to install a moisture barrier between the wall and the veneer to prevent water from getting behind the veneer and causing damage.
As you install the veneers on the concrete, you should consider the required maintenance level. Stone veneer requires regular cleaning and sealing to protect against water damage and maintain its appearance. Ensure that you’re ready for the commitment to keep surfaces shiny.
What Tools Do You Need to Put Stone Veneer Over Concrete/Cinder Block?
When putting veneer over concrete/cinder blocks, you must have the right tools to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
When putting stone veneer over concrete/cinder block, you’ll need a concrete repair compound to fill in cracks or imperfections in the wall and a waterproof building paper or self-adhesive membrane for installing a moisture barrier.
You’ll also require a wet or circular saw with a masonry blade to cut the veneer to fit around corners or other irregularities in the wall. Other tools you may need include:
- Concrete resurfacer
- Furring strips
- Trowel
- Level
- Screw gun
- Screws
- Hammer
- Chalk line
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
These tools will help you properly prepare the surface for stone veneer installation and attach the stone veneer securely to the wall. In addition, it is always a good idea to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to protect your eyes and respiratory system from debris during installation.
What Preparations Do You Need to Put Stone Veneer Over Concrete/Cinder Block?
When preparing to put a stone veneer over the concrete/block, ensure the concrete/cinder block is clean, dry, and free of any cracks or flaws in its surface. It will help ensure that the concrete’s underlying material will not damage your stone veneer.
To get started, you’ll need to remove any existing paint or stain from the concrete surface and sand the surface of the concrete until it is smooth and clean. Use a power sander with medium-grit sandpaper to remove loose concrete or cinder block pieces.
If you have any cracks or holes in your concrete, repair them using a concrete repair product or a mixture of cement and water to fill in any gaps or cracks. Apply a concrete bonding agent and a concrete resurfacer to create a smooth and even surface.
It would also be better to add furring strips to the surface to provide a substrate to attach the stone veneer. Measure and mark the locations for the furring strips and attach them to the wall using screws or nails.
Also, don’t forget to wear protective gear—a hooded sweatshirt, rubber gloves, and safety goggles—and work in a well-ventilated area so that you don’t get any fumes from the epoxy resin inhaled into your lungs or eyes.
How to Put Stone Veneer Over Concrete/Cinder Block
Following a particular sequence can help improve efficiency when putting stone veneer over concrete/cinder. It helps you stay organized and fix everything in the required place and amounts for an overall professional and appealing end product.
Step 1
When starting, apply a concrete bonding agent and a concrete resurfacer to create a smooth and even surface to attach the stone veneer. You can also add furring strips to improve the attachment surface.
Step 2
Measure and mark the location for the first piece of stone veneer. Use a chalk line to mark a straight line across the wall to ensure that the stone veneer is installed straight.
Lap the edges of your stone veneer piece so that they fit tightly together around the edges of your concrete or cinder block cut-out shape, and then secure them using screws
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Step 3
Attach metal lath: Use concrete nails or screws to attach a layer of metal lath to the surface. It will provide a surface for the veneer to adhere to.
Step 4
Apply mortar: Use a trowel to spread a layer of mortar over the metal lath. This layer will be the base for the stone veneer.
Step 4
Install stone veneer: Begin installing the stone veneer, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Use a trowel to spread a thin layer of mortar on each stone’s back.
Step 5
Continue installing the remaining stone veneer pieces, keeping them level and evenly spaced. Use a level to check the placement of each piece.
Step 6
Create joints: Use a jointing tool to create a uniform joint between each stone. This helps to give the wall a natural, finished look. If desired, you can grout the joints between the stone veneer pieces using a grout mixture and a grout float.
Step 8
Clean up: After installing the veneer, allow the mortar to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, use a wet sponge or cloth to clean any excess mortar off the stones.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on December 27, 2022.