How to Install Rock Veneer on a Garage

Locate the studs from the outside of the garage wall using a stud finder, if possible . Mark the locations clearly with a permanent marker. Proceed as normal if studs cannot be found, as the wood screws will install in siding and insulation materials without significant negative effects.

Drill holes every 12 inches into each stud. Drill holes every six inches around door frames and windows. Sand the entire exterior surface of the garage to which veneers will be attached. Wipe off excess sawdust.

Wrap lath tightly around the garage surfaces, drilling it in place with 3-inch galvanized screws and plastic disk washers set in each of the predrilled pilot holes. Cut the lath as needed with the tin snips. Overlap all lath seams with over 6 inches of extra lath, and never have a seam on a corner.

Spread mortar over the entire lath surface to a depth of 1/2 inch. Allow the mortar to dry for four hours and then use a scraping tool or rake to scuff up the mortared surface and prepare it for the installation of the veneers. Allow two days for the mortar surface to dry, longer if the air is humid or if there is rain.

Apply veneers from the top of the garage wall down. Cover the rear of the veneer with 1/4-inch of mortar and press it into the scuffed surface tightly. Hold in place for one minute. Use bigger stones first and then work in smaller stones as necessary, going back and cutting stones to fit with a saw. Wipe off any extra mortar.

Let the mortar set for a few hours, then go back and apply grout to the desired fill level. Cover the grout with a tarp if there is rain within 48 hours of installation.