Instructions for the installation of polygonal natural stone slabs on an interior wall

Give your interior a natural and elegant look by installing polygonal natural stone slabs on your wall. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process.

1. Preparation

  • Procure materials and tools:
    • Polygonal natural stone slabs
    • Primer (e.g. PCI Gisogrund)
    • Trass cement
    • PCI Emulsion (Adhesive Milk)
    • Water
    • Mason's hammer
    • Shovel and Stirring Tool
    • Pencil and measuring tape
    • Nails, wedges or construction protection mats
    • Dowels and screws
    • Stable metal wire
    • Piping bag
  • Check the substrate: Ensure that the wall is clean, dry, and load-bearing.

2. Apply primer

  • Apply the primer (e.g. PCI Gisogrund) evenly to the wall.
  • For highly absorbent substrates, we recommend applying the primer twice.
  • Let the primer dry thoroughly.

3. Plan laying patterns

  • Choose the natural stone slabs and arrange them as desired.
  • Lay the tiles out in front of the wall to plan the pattern.
  • Draw the outlines of the panels on the wall with a pencil.
  • Number the stones and the corresponding positions on the wall.
  • Edit the stones carefully with a masonry hammer if necessary to adjust them.

4. Prepare adhesive

  • Rinse the adhesive by mixing trass cement, water, and PCI emulsion (bonding milk) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Pay attention to a lump-free, smooth consistency.

5. Apply adhesive

  • Apply the adhesive to the designated spot on the wall.
  • Also coat the back of the stone with the adhesive (buttering-floating method).

6. Placement of the stones

  • Begin at the bottom of the wall.
  • Press the stone firmly against the wall and move it slightly to ensure optimal adhesion.
  • Use tools such as nails, wedges, or construction protection mats to support and secure the stones during the drying phase.
  • Work your way up step by step from the bottom to the top.

7. Set wall anchors

  • As soon as all the stones are attached, stabilize the natural stone cladding.
  • Insert dowels and screws partially into the joints and the masonry.
  • Connect the screws with a sturdy metal wire:
    • Wrap the wire around the screws.
    • Stretch the wire along the seam to the next screw to create additional support.
  • It is not necessary to stabilize every single stone. Adjust the number of anchors to the weight of the stones – the heavier the stones, the more anchors are needed.

8. Provisions

  • Rinse the joint compound made of pozzolanic cement mortar and PCI emulsion according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Fill the gaps between the stones with a piping bag:
    • For a plastic effect, do not fill the joint all the way to the stone surface.
  • After a short drying time, you can smooth the joint, press it down, and remove any excess material.

9. Post-processing

  • Let the entire wall dry sufficiently before carrying out further work or putting any load on the wall.
  • Clean the stone surfaces of any mortar residues if necessary.

Important Notes

  • Wear appropriate protective clothing, including gloves and safety goggles, during work.
  • Pay attention to the manufacturer's specifications of the materials used.
  • Check the load-bearing capacity of the wall, especially with heavy stones.

Disclaimer

This guide has been created with the utmost care. However, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, and timeliness of the information provided. The application is at your own risk. Please note that we cannot accept any liability for any damages or defects resulting from the implementation of this guide.

Recommendation

We recommend that you consult with a building materials specialist about the mentioned materials and possible alternatives. Let professionals advise you to achieve optimal results and avoid any mistakes.