How to Install Stackable Stone Using Masonry Caulk

Preparing the Site

• 1

  Determine the length of the structure before preparing for the stone’s installation. Pound two wooden stakes in the ground, one at the beginning and one where the stone wall is slated to end. Take this time to look through the stones to determine their placement. Set aside the flattest, most attractive stones to serve as the capstones.

• 2

  Break up the native soil between the stakes and begin to dig a trench that’s approximately 6 to 8 inches deep and as wide as the widest stackable stones. Cover the bottom of the trench with a 1- to 2-inch layer of gravel. Press the gravel slightly into the ground and level it with your hands to provide a steady base for the stones.

• 3

  Arrange the stones according to their length and width before laying the first row. Don’t build the entire wall. Instead, arrange the stones according to their size to give you a rough idea of where to lay the stones to create the most aesthetically pleasing and stable finished product.

Building the Wall

• 4

  Line the trench with the largest, widest stones first to provide a steady base. Pour gravel, stones or dirt inside the trench to fill in any empty spaces. Continue to fill the trench with the largest and most unpleasant-looking stones, until the top layer is flush with the surrounding ground.

• 5

  Lay the first course, or layer of stones, paying attention to prevent creating large gaps. It’s impossible to create the wall without some smaller gaps, which is where the masonry caulk comes into play. Instead of filling the gaps with mortar or smaller chunks of broken stone, load the spaces with clear masonry caulk. Point the caulking gun into the space and overfill the gap with the product. Wipe away any excess caulk from the surrounding stones with a rag immediately.

• 6

  Continue to lay the stones, filling in the noticeable gaps with the masonry caulk. Lay a level on the wall periodically to ensure it's not slanting.

• 7

  Cover the top of the wall with a layer of capstones. Use the stones you set aside earlier that are both smaller and attractive to create a firm top for the wall. Give the finished wall a once-over to look for any gaps you missed along the way and fill them with the masonry caulk.