What the manufacturers of artificial decorative stone are silent about (mistakes in laying stone that cannot be corrected)

Decorative stone is a great imitation of natural stone. Artificial stone is cheaper, but it looks just as beautiful, repeats the shape, color, structure of a natural analogue.

A stone is made from clay, colored concrete, gypsum, etc. Designed for interior / exterior decoration, countertops, sinks, window sills, furniture decor, etc.

Decorative stone is a difficult finishing material in colder regions. Manufacturers are silent about some problems with the installation of stone.

Shown only beautiful houses, cottages with decoration. In the instructions, you can read the only problem: the wrong glue, grout, weak base. In practice, other problems are added.

Manufacturers assure that no specials are required. surface preparation before installation. Does this mean that an unprimed brick or concrete wall can be immediately revetted with decorative stone? Many people listen to such recommendations and the following happens:

Artificial stone, although it weighs several times less than natural, is still a heavy material.

Before finishing, you will need reinforcement with a metal mesh (reinforce the walls).

Glue you also need to select it for the weight of the stone. Use not cheap glue, but one that is intended for outdoor use. The application of glue also plays a role. On "bloopers" - not the best way. The glue is applied with a comb.

Another mistake - the seams between the stone are not rubbed, but are embroidered. Do not grout the stone. It will be absorbed into the material itself and cannot be washed off. It is necessary to apply the jointing without touching the outside of the stone into the seam. You can lay the stone without seams:

You can't glue the stone on film, paint, wallpaper, insulation without reinforcement. Don't be fooled by sellers who say you can lay on any surface.

Gypsum is not allowed use for external cladding (plinth, facade, fence, etc.). Gypsum absorbs water and is poor frost resistance. No specials impregnation gypsum stone will not withstand frost and will fall off.

And more advice: there may be “cement milk” on the back of the stone. The layer is about 0.5 mm thick. Take a stiff brush and remove it before finishing. If not removed, there will be poor adhesion of the stone to the glue. Then you should wet the back of the stone.