River Rocking a Fireplace
#1
10-03-09, 04:27 PM
River Rocking a Fireplace
I am looking to river rock a fireplace using real rock. The fireplace currently has plywood that covers the studs that is painted. The fireplace goes 15 feet up to the vaulted ceilings. What is the technique to attach the rocks? I have done a lot of tile work so think the technique will be similar. Any advice?
#2
10-03-09, 06:21 PM
Welcome to the forums! Add concrete backer underlayment and nail up lath over it all. You can put your "scratch" coat on the lath and begin laying rock by buttering each one. The thicker they are, the more likely they will need support, so I would look for the narrowest rock in the river. After it is all dried, you can grout between the rock and brush the grout smooth.
#4
10-04-09, 08:07 AM
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If they are full size rocks, you do not "attach" them, you stack them. If there was no footing planned for the weight, then you are simply out of luck using real, round, river rock.
You will have to use a faux stone that IS attached to the surface.
You will have to use a faux stone that IS attached to the surface.
#5
10-04-09, 11:21 AM
All are right. We usually split, or reduce the depth of some river type rocks for attachment ease. It gives a narrower profile and a flat adherence surface.
#6
10-04-09, 06:04 PM
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Technically, if it is over 14 pounds per SqFt, then it is not an adhered veneer. Very few real river rocks sawed in half meet that standard, so the only real alternative to the river rock look is faux stone, which still comes in on the heavy side of an adhered veneer. Make sure your substrate is beyond approach.
#7
10-04-09, 07:04 PM
Our river rock must be smaller than yours. Most of ours is quite adherable to cbu and lath without a weight problem. I do see a problem in putting river rock the size of Rip Rap on a wall.
#8
10-05-09, 05:31 AM
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