How to Tile a Wall With Rock

Rock walls provide a natural highlight in the home. Many houses feature a chimney column, a kitchen back splash, a shower or a wine cellar tiled with stone. The thinner the stone, the easier it will be to work with. Slate and limestone make great rock walls. You may use inexpensive cultured stone--which is designed from concrete---for ease of installation. The looks vary by color, size and shape, so you can find a look to match your architectural style.

• 1

  Measure the width and length of the wall you want to tile with stone. Multiply the length by the width, to find the area, in square feet. Purchase that amount of stone, plus a little extra, in case of waste and mistakes.

• 2

  Lay out the bottom row of stones along the wall. Switch out stones until you're satisfied with the fit of the rocks and the color combinations.

• 3

  Apply a tight bead of caulk on the back of the stone, leaving a bit of room on the edges for the caulk to spread. Place the stone firmly against the wall, wiggling it to ensure a solid seal between the wall, caulk and stone. Wipe away any excess caulk that squeezes out around the edges.

• 4

  Attach the remaining stones in the first row in the same manner as in Step 3.

• 5

  Choose a layer of stones for the second row, varying the sizes so the seams from the first row do not fall in the same place as the second row.

• 6

  Repeat steps 3 through 5 until the wall is covered in stone.

• 7

  Grout over the wall if you've used river rock or if gaps exist between the stones. Trowel the grout into the grout bag, twist the bag at the loose end and squeeze the grout into the gaps. Once the grout has partially cured---but is still damp and flexible---smooth the grout lines with the stick. Brush over the grout with the paintbrush and allow it to fully cure.