How to Mortar Stone on a Wood Wall

Plan out more elaborate stone patterns on a cardboard template before starting.

Most people do not think twice about how to attach stone to a wall made of regular sheetrock, but might be stumped when it comes to putting that same stone against wood. Fortunately, the process is only slightly different. It still uses mortar and grout, and is a simple enough task for most do-it-yourselfers.

1. Cut the galvanized wire lath with wire snips so that it covers the entire area where the stone will be placed. Make several pieces rather than one large one, if this is easier. Attach the lath to the wall with flat-head drywall screws placed approximately every 6 inches.

2. Trowel prepared mortar over the metal lath until you have a layer that is approximately ½-inch thick and level all over. Push the stones into the mortar, fitting them together as efficiently as you can or in a pattern that pleases you. Work in small areas if the wall is large.

3. Wait one to two days for the mortar to dry thoroughly. Put on a pair of safety goggles and some gloves.

4. Mix together dry sanded grout and the amount of water needed for your chosen product in a bucket. Stir the grout well with a shovel until everything is consistently combined. Choose a small area in which to begin grouting.

5. Pick up approximately ¼ cup of grout with the grout float. Spread the grout as evenly as possible over the stones in the first section. Work the grout down between the stones with the corners of the float.

6. Shape the grout around the stones and smooth it out, using your fingertips. Wipe your fingers clean quickly before the grout dries if you are not wearing gloves. Use a damp sponge to clean any excess grout from the surfaces of the stones.

7. Grout over the whole stone surface in the same way you did the first area. Wait a full day before touching the stones. Consider sealing the surface if it will be heavily used.