How to Build a Stone Wall With a Rock Face Using Cinder Blocks

Create a wet but thick mortar mix. Make mortar from scratch mixing three parts sand and one and a half parts cement then gradually stirring in water until a thick consistency results or use a "just-add-water" dry mix.

Apply a 3/8- to 1-inch-thick layer of mortar on the end of the foundation where the first block will sit, using a trowel. Burrow a concavity in the middle of the mortar so the perimeter will compact well beneath the perimeter of the block.

Set the first block into the mortar, tapping it into place with a rubber mallet. Set a level on top to adjust the horizontal alignment of the block. Set the level on the side to check the vertical alignment. Remove any excess mortar that comes out from beneath the block with the trowel.

Trowel mortar onto the foundation, next to the first block where the second block will sit. Also spread a 1/2- to 3/8-inch-thick layer of mortar to the end of the first block, where the blocks will meet. Set in and level the second block. Continue to lay the first course of blocks in the same manner.

Add the second course in the same manner. Start with a half-block so the joints of the second course will stagger the first.

Wait for the mortar to start to set up then run the end of a jointer tool down all mortar joints to smooth them down. Allow the mortar to cure.

Moisten the wall and the backs of rock facing segments with water and keep them wet while attaching rock facing.

Mortar the rock facing segments to the wall. Begin at one of the upper corners. Use a notched trowel to spread ridged layers of 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick mortar to the wall and to the backs of segments. Push the segments into the mortar and leave a 3/8 to 1/2-inch gap between each.

Cut the rock facing segments to fit, where necessary, with a circular saw with a diamond blade or a masonry saw. Once finished covering the wall, allow the mortar to cure for 24 hours.

Fill a grouting bag with grout. Aim the nozzle between the rock segments. Press the bag by hand and move the nozzle slowly along the rock segment gaps to create grouted joints. Force in and smooth down the joints with the jointer tool. Wash any grout that gets onto the faces of the rocks with a damp sponge. Wait for the grout to cure.

Coat the rock facing and grout with the recommended sealer, using a paintbrush.