Natural thin stone and cultured thin stone both weigh approximately 12 to 15 lbs. per square foot and are typically 1" to 3" in thickness. Thin stone can be used on both existing and newly planned walls. Installation procedures are very simple.

For thin stone applied over plywood or drywall:

1. Apply a moisture barrier (such as tar paper) over the working area. This is especially important when going over plywood since the wood can act like a paper towel and absorb moisture from the mortar before it has a chance to cure. This can leave the mortar weak and crumbling.
2. Nail or screw galvanized wire lath over the entire area. Make sure the wire returns around the corners. If the wire ends at the corners and corner pieces are used, settling of the wall could cause the corner pieces to crack.
3. Apply mortar to the back of the stone and press into place. There is no need to scratchcoat the wire.
4. Fill the joints with mortar and strike. A grout bag or tuckpointing tool can be used for this.

For thin stone that will be applied over clean unpainted and unsealed concrete or block: Do not use a moisture barrier. Wire lath is not necessary but can be used. Sometimes when concrete or block is sealed or painted, wire lath is necessary. Apply mortar to the back of the stone and press into place. Fill the joints with mortar and strike.

Extra tips:

• A solution of AKKRO 7T mixed in with the mortar will help it set up faster and stronger.
• Nails or screws can be used to temporarily hold larger pieces.
• When using wire lath, overlap at all joints.
• Blend colors, sizes and textures.

Benson Stone Company has many types of thin stone available. We carry approximately 90 types of cultured stone and about 70 types of natural thin stone. In addition, some forms of both cultured and natural stone can be blended to create even more looks.