Cultured stone tiles are available in many colors and designs.
Cultured stone is a composite mixture made of concrete, stone aggregate and coloring. It is just as heavy as natural stone and adds a lot of weight to a wall. Although it is possible to apply cultured stone tiles directly to drywall, it is not the normal procedure. Drywall material is made out of layers of paper and gypsum, which can tear from the extra weight. Instead, you install a cement board over the drywall and then attach the stone tile to the board. The board is more durable, and the mortar adheres well to the surface.
Instructions
1. Measure the area where you want to put the cultured-stone tiles. Transfer the measurements to the cement board.
2. Cut the cement board with a circular saw, using a masonry blade. Follow the marked lines.
3. Locate the studs on the wall with a stud finder and mark the locations.
4. Place the cement board to the wall. Drill 1½-inch masonry screws through the cement board and into the studs to anchor it. Repeat the process to cover the entire area where you want the cultured stone.
5. Mix up a batch of thinset mortar in a bucket. Follow the directions on the package to determine how much water is required.
6. Spread the mortar over a small section of the cement board, using a notched trowel. Apply enough for a few stone tiles. Start at the bottom and work your way up.
7. Place the cultured stone on the mortar and press in slightly. Set the tiles right next to each other to create a solid look, or put spacers between them for an obvious tile or stacked-stone finish. Continue across the bottom row.
8. Cut the stone with a wet saw as needed -- for instance, to fit the stone up against an object or the edge of a wall, where a full stone tile is too wide. Measure and mark the location of the cut, and follow the mark with the blade.
9. Install the second row of tile in the same manner as the first. If you have obvious gaps, you can stagger the seams for a stacked look. Repeat the process to cover the wall. Let the surface dry overnight.
10. Mix up some mortar grout for the stone. Even if you set the stones next to each other, small hairline gaps will occur between the tiles.
11. Spread the mortar on with a float, pressing the tool at a slight angle so that the grout is forced downward into the gaps. Clean the tile stone surface with a damp rag. Leave the stones to dry overnight.
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