However, in order for a natural stone to serve for a long time and retain its beauty, you need to follow certain rules of care for it. And even better-make a stone finish with your own hands to save money and enjoy the creative process. In this article, we will tell you how to make a natural stone finish with your own hands, what materials and tools you will need, what steps and techniques you should follow.
Natural stone. You can choose any type of stone that you like and is suitable for your interior. The most popular types of stone for finishing are marble, granite, travertine, limestone, slate, quartzite, sandstone, basalt, Onyx, agate, jasper, etc. You can buy stone in the form of slabs, tiles, mosaics, paving stones, fragments, pebbles, crumbs, etc. You can also find a stone in nature, if you have the opportunity and desire.
Glue for Stone. You can choose a special stone adhesive that has high adhesion, resistance to moisture, frost, temperature, mildew, mold, etc. You can also use regular cement mortar, but it may be less stable and aesthetic. Choose the adhesive according to the type of stone, the surface on which you put it, and the operating conditions.
Grout for joints. You can choose a joint solution that is suitable for Stone, has the appropriate color and texture, is resistant to moisture, frost, temperature, mildew, mold, etc. You can also use regular cement mortar, but it may be less stable and aesthetic. Choose the grout according to the type of stone, the width of the joints, and the operating conditions.
Primer. You can choose a primer that is suitable for Stone, has high permeability, creates a protective layer, improves adhesive adhesion, prevents stains, fading, corrosion, etc. You can also do without a primer, but this can degrade the quality and duration of the finish. Choose a primer based on the type of stone, the surface you put it on, and the operating conditions.
Tools. You can choose the tools you will need to work with the stone, such as: level, measuring tape, pencil, scissors, knife, saw, drill, grinder, grinder, spatula, sponge, brush, bucket, rag, etc. You can also use other tools that you have on hand or can purchase. Choose your tools according to the type of stone, shape, size, finish, and more.
Surface preparation. You must clean the surface on which you will glue the stone from dust, dirt, grease, paint, putty, wallpaper, tiles, etc. You must level the surface,
if it has bumps, cracks, holes, spots, etc. You should treat the surface with a primer if it has high water absorption, poor adhesion, poor strength, etc. You must wait for the surface to dry completely before the next step.
Laying stone. You should plan out the stone laying scheme, taking into account the size, shape, color, texture, seams, ornament, and so on. You must lay out the stone on the floor or on paper in the order in which you will glue it. You should apply the glue to the surface or stone with a spatula, spreading it evenly over the entire area. You must glue the stone to the surface by pressing it with your hands or a rubber hammer. You should stick to the same width of the seams between the stones, using wooden or Plastic Fasteners. You must wait for the glue to harden completely before the next step.
Grouting joints. You must clean the joints of glue residues, dust, dirt, etc. You must mix the grout with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. You should apply grout to the joints with a sponge, brush, or special gun. You should fill the seams evenly, leaving no gaps or protrusions. You should remove excess grout from the stone surface with a rag or sponge. You should wait until the grout is completely dry before the next step.
Stone Protection. You must protect the stone from moisture, dirt, corrosion, fading, etc. You should choose a protective agent that is suitable for your stone type, has high efficiency, durability, environmental friendliness, etc. You should apply a protective agent to the surface of the stone with a sponge, brush or spray. You must adhere to the recommended exposure time and number of layers. You should wait until the protective agent is completely dry.
You made a natural stone finish with your own hands! We congratulate you on this achievement and wish you to enjoy the result. 😊
