Easy Faux Stone Installation On Drywall

Faux stone panels are a great way to add a decorative flair to your interior walls. They are easy to install, affordable, and highly versatile. With a few basic tools and some DIY knowledge, you can transform any wall, under-cabinet space, or accent wall with a fireplace into a beautiful stone feature. Before you begin, it is important to prepare the installation area, gather the required tools and materials, and ensure the surface is structurally sound. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing faux stone on interior painted drywall, covering everything from acclimating your panels to the final installation steps for a flawless finish.

Prepare the room and surface

Preparing the room and surface is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and efficient installation process for your faux stone wall. Here are the steps you should follow:

Firstly, clear the room of any furniture and items. Cover the remaining items and the floor with sheets of painter's plastic to protect them from dust and debris. This step is important as parts of the installation process can be dusty.

Next, you'll need to prepare the surface of the wall. If you plan to keep the existing drywall, ensure it is structurally sound, free from cracks, holes, moisture, or other damage. If necessary, repair any issues before proceeding.

If your wall is covered with oil-based paint, you will need to sand it. Otherwise, simply clean the wall and the back of each panel to ensure proper adhesion. Remove any dust, loose paint, or wallpaper from the surface.

Now, you need to decide whether to attach the stones using nails or adhesive. If using adhesive, ensure the wall is free of moisture, as this can affect adhesion. If you opt for nails, select a finish nailer compatible with the material and ensure it can penetrate the substrate sufficiently.

Before you begin installation, it's important to acclimate the panels. Lay your faux stone panels flat in the installation area for at least 24 hours, allowing them to adjust to the room's temperature and humidity. This helps prevent any warping or expansion issues after installation.

Finally, for a seamless look, it's recommended to paint the substrate a dark colour, such as black or dark grey, so that no other colours show through the seams between the stones.

Acclimatise the panels

To acclimatise the faux stone panels, you must lay them out flat in the installation area for at least 24 hours. This process helps the panels adjust to the room's temperature and climate. During this time, ensure the panels are stored indoors, away from direct sunlight, and that the room is well-ventilated. If the panels have been stored at room temperature or in a cool climate, you can install them immediately without the 24-hour acclimation period.

It is important to note that the acclimation process is crucial for the adhesive as well. The adhesive, which secures the panels to the wall, should also be allowed to acclimatise to the room's temperature for at least 24 hours. This ensures that it will bond effectively with the panels and the wall surface.

Additionally, while the panels are acclimatising, you can prepare the installation surface. Inspect the wall to ensure it is structurally sound, free from cracks, holes, moisture, or any other damage. Address any issues that may impact the adhesion and overall installation process.

The acclimation period is a crucial step in the installation process as it helps ensure a successful and long-lasting bond between the panels and the wall. It also allows you to prepare the installation surface and gather the necessary tools and materials, making the overall installation process smoother and more efficient.

By following these steps and allowing the faux stone panels and adhesive to acclimatise, you can ensure optimal results and enhance the overall aesthetics of your interior space.

Mark the surface

Marking the surface is a crucial step in ensuring a straight and level first course of stone veneer. Begin by using a stud finder to locate the centre of each stud at the top and bottom of the wall. Then, snap a chalk line between these marks to indicate the centre line of the studs. This will guide you in driving the cement-board screws and ensuring a secure base for the stone veneer.

If you plan to install the stone veneer on an existing drywall, it is essential to mark the outlet locations on the cement board. Use a hammer to gently tap and create the outlet hole, and then refine the edges with a utility knife. Don't worry about perfection with this hole, as it will be covered by the stone veneer. Reinforce the seams with self-adhesive mesh tape and a layer of thin-set for added strength.

To ensure a level first row of stone veneer, it is important to mark a level line on the wall. Utilise a 4-ft level or a shorter level mounted on a straight board to check the floor's level. If the floor is level, measure the distance from the floor to the line at each end of the wall and snap a chalk line. However, if the floor isn't level, measure up from the low side, level across the room, and snap a line between these marks.

Additionally, when working with stone veneer panels, it is essential to mark the panels for cutting. Before making any cuts, ensure to measure twice for accuracy. Trimming at least 1/4 of the panel helps reduce waste and ensures a proper fit. Mark the desired cut lines on the panel, and then use a wood-cutting saw with a finish blade to make the cuts.

By diligently marking the surface, you can achieve a level and straight installation of the stone veneer, resulting in a professional and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Adhere the panels

To adhere the panels, you must first prepare the panels and the installation surface. Lay your panels out flat in the installation area for at least 24 hours to help them acclimate to the room. The installation surface should be structurally sound and free from cracks, holes, moisture, or other damage. Clean all surfaces to ensure proper adhesion, including the wall and the back of each panel.

Next, you can begin the process of adhering the panels to the wall. Starting from the bottom of the wall, spread a 1/8-inch-thick layer of adhesive across the back of the stone. Press the stone evenly against the surface to distribute the adhesive. Make sure the stones are lined up tightly against one another.

After completing the first row, check that it is level before continuing. If the last stone will need to be cut less than an inch long, plan to cut several inches off the first stone to allow for a wider finishing piece. Use a level chalk line on the wall to indicate the top of the first row of stone. Check if the floor is level across the width of the wall using a 4-ft. level or a shorter level held on top of a straight board. If the floor is not level, measure up from the low side and level across the room to make a mark at the other end.

If you are installing interlocking corners, you can skip the previous step. Turn your panel over and mark where you intend to make the cut. Trim the panel using a wood-cutting saw with a finish blade. It is best to measure twice before making a cut. Trim at least ¼ of the panel to help reduce waste.

If you decide you would like to use a different stone, you can remove and replace a stone within 30 minutes of application.

Finish the installation

Finishing the Installation

Once you have prepared the wall and cut your faux stone panels, you are ready to install. If you are using an adhesive, ensure the wall is free of dust, loose paint, and wallpaper. Allow the panels and adhesive to acclimate to the room's temperature for 24 hours.

If you are using nails, choose a finish nailer compatible with the substrate. A 16 or 18-gauge nailer is suitable for interior projects with 2" galvanized nails that penetrate at least 1/4" through the substrate.

Starting from the bottom of the wall, spread a 1/8-inch-thick layer of adhesive across the back of the stone. Press the stone evenly against the surface, ensuring the stones are lined up tightly. Check that the first row is level before continuing.

If you are using nails, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate nail spacing.

When you reach a corner, use a corner stone, and work your way horizontally. When a wall ends at a doorway or window, use natural-edge finished stones. Ensure the edge doesn't prevent a door or window from opening or closing.

If you need to cut the panels to fit around corners or edges, mark them and use a saw to cut them to size. When cutting around a light switch or outlet, cut the stone and turn the natural edge side up.

Finally, if your touch-up kit contains a wash, apply it with a paintbrush and dab with a soft cloth to blend.

Frequently asked questions