There are many reasons why people want to know how to build a wall. Having one inside your home can make it a focal point. It can also act as a divider. To finish making a wall, you will need to set aside a day or two.
Required Tools and Materials
Slate
Trowel
Mortar mix
Thick plastic sheeting
Tape measure
Use the tape measure to determine the room area. Make sure the measurements you take are accurate. These figures will determine the amount of mortar and slate you will need. Tip: if you don’t want to use slate, you can use river rocks or cobblestones.
Step 2
Put the plastic sheeting near the area where you will make the stone wall. The sheets will serve to protect the flooring from the slate. Put the slate on the sheeting. Make sure to cover the flooring around the area. This is to keep the mortar from getting on the floor.
Those who are just studying how to build a wall should realize they can do it on tile or hardwood flooring too. But carpet padding has to be removed. A stone wall has to be built on solid ground.
Step 3
Mix the mortar (if it isn’t premixed). Apply a thin layer of the mortar on the area where the slate will be placed. Move the trowel’s notched edge along the mortar’s surface. Put a row of stones over the mortar. Push the stones down hard on the mortar.
Step 4
After the first row is finished, apply a layer of mortar over the stones. Stack another row of stones over the mortar. Keep adding the mortar and stones until you reach the desired height.
Note: if you are going to use cobblestones, you must apply mortar all over it. You must also stagger the mortar joints. This means the stones will not be set directly over one another.
For bricks, cobblestones or river rocks, put the second layer of stones in the center of the first level’s vertical mortar joint. Use the same method for staggering the other stones.
Step 5
Make sure to remove any mortar spillovers before it dries up. You should dispose of the plastic covering before the mortar dries up.
One more thing needs to be said on how to build a wall. Natural stones are heavier than manmade ones. This means the latter are easier to lift. Never work with mortar without wearing gloves.
