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Hi!
I’m redoing my AZ backyard. A mason I hired just built an outdoor fireplace (11′ tall) and a bench (15′ wide — called a “banco” around here) that is integrated into the fireplace. I need to continue on with the project myself, because I’m strapped for cash, and because the rest of the project is of smaller scope — stuff I think I can handle myself.
In a former life, I laid brick, block and a little stone, but it’s been a while.
My questions are: What type of mortar should I use if I want to cover the banco/bench (built of concrete/concrete block) with flagstone? Should I lay a full bed of mud under the flagstone or just a partial one? The banco/bench will probably be sat on, stood on, used to hold firewood, etc — but no extremely heavy loads. We don’t experience freezing here (at least not hard freezes).
Any suggestions, comments or websites to investigate would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dan.
Replies
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Hi Dan-
I'm in Az. also, up in the White Mtns.
Your situation sounds real straight forward. There are quite a few good books on outdoor stonework. Search under that topic at the library and you'll find what you need. Also, Quikrete publishes a book called "Build And Repair With Concrete The Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual." This is readily available and is a good, handy reference and will help you decide things like whether you want to use premix mortar or not. Brushing a concrete bonder on the existing masonry as you go will help strengthen the bond between the old and new work. Once the stone is set, keep it moist for several days so it cures well. Especially if it's warm and or windy.
Quikrete has a site
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Hi!
I'm redoing my AZ backyard. A mason I hired just built an outdoor fireplace (11' tall) and a bench (15' wide -- called a "banco" around here) that is integrated into the fireplace. I need to continue on with the project myself, because I'm strapped for cash, and because the rest of the project is of smaller scope -- stuff I think I can handle myself.
In a former life, I laid brick, block and a little stone, but it's been a while.
My questions are: What type of mortar should I use if I want to cover the banco/bench (built of concrete/concrete block) with flagstone? Should I lay a full bed of mud under the flagstone or just a partial one? The banco/bench will probably be sat on, stood on, used to hold firewood, etc -- but no extremely heavy loads. We don't experience freezing here (at least not hard freezes).
Any suggestions, comments or websites to investigate would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dan.