Installing Stone Flooring

When it comes to installing stone flooring, you're in for a bit of work. It's more difficult than installing carpet, tile, or even hardwood flooring. However, it's completely possible for you to install all types of stone flooring. How you go about it depends on which type of stone you're using. It's very important that you install the flooring correctly; otherwise, your stone flooring may crack, shift, or become uneven.

First, you need to see what's under your current flooring. If the under-flooring isn't strong enough to support a stone floor or if it's uneven, you're going to have to do a bit of work before you can actually install your stone flooring. Heavier stone flooring may not be an option if your structure isn't strong enough to hold it. You may actually need to consult a professional before you purchase your stones to make certain your structure can handle it. Fortunately, most stone flooring comes in several different thicknesses, so you may be able to find a thinner layer that looks the same but weighs less.

If you have a wood subfloor, you may need to reinforce it with more plywood. You will then want to add a layer of tar paper and then a wire mesh. Next, you'll put down a layer of mortar and a cement backer board. This will all combine to create a very stable, very strong support for your stone flooring. If you've got a concrete floor, you can use the same method, although you won't need to put down a new layer of plywood. You can also use a set adhesive instead of mortar and cement backer boards. Generally, however, a professional will recommend you use a mortar bed.

Likewise, a cement backer is a very good idea, especially if you want to make installation easier. It should be fairly thick, especially if you have a heavy stone. You can install your cement backer board to your subfloor with screws and adhesive. Then you place the stones on top of the backer with a thin set adhesive.

No matter what kind of stone flooring you're installing, you'll want to put a layer of sealant over the flooring. If you do this before you do any grouting, it will be easier to keep the grout of the actual stone itself. After allowing the sealant to dry, you can grout your stone floor.

Remember that if you don't install your stone flooring correctly, it may shift, slide, or otherwise crack. For this reason, you've got to follow the instructions very closely and take your time. Rushing through the installation will only result in a poorly constructed floor. While a stone floor should last you a lifetime, a poorly installed stone floor will only cause you headaches and will result in you redoing the floor, which will cost more money.