Adhering Rocks or Stones to a Cement Driveway

After years of useful abuse, your old cement driveway could probably use a facelift. Once you have decided to tackle the project, gather the right tools and materials and then follow these multi-task directions to add some curb appeal to your neighborhood eyesore.

Surface Preparation

Step 1 - Check the Heights

Your garage floor needs to match the level of the stone layer added to the driveway. If necessary, build up your concrete floor lip by acquiring a small amount of either asphalt or concrete.

Step 2 - Add a Border

Before working on the driveway surface area, run a line on both sides using string. Make sure these are straight and then use as guides for laying rock for the driveway borders.

Step 3 - Apply Adhesive

Make sure the surface area is clean and then apply construction adhesive for the first row of rock. Make sure to secure the border rock with adhesive, also.

Rock Installation

Step 1 - Place Rocks

Beginning at the top of the driveway, place rocks (or stone) working toward the street. You can place rocks in any design configuration desired if you want to be creative.

Step 2 - Wet It Down

Hose down each row of laid rock and compact across the width of the driveway. Pay special attention to compact carefully so no rock is broken.

Step 3 - Clean the Surface

Using a standard leaf blower, clean all excess dirt and debris between the laid rocks.

Step 4 -Do Not Use Glue

Do not use adhesive in the “field area” where the rock is laid. Grout will bind the field rocks together.

Grouting

Step 1 - Use Epoxy

Use epoxy grout, sand, or gravel to fill in all joint areas between the rocks.

Step 2 - Remove Standing Water

Check to make sure there are no little areas of standing water. You will need 24 hours with no rain in sight for the grout to dry, adhering to the rock.

Step 3 - Mix It Up

Make a mixture of sand and epoxy for your grout in a concrete mixer. Make sure to coat the inside of the mixer with water before loading in a 50-pound sandbag, epoxies, and more water. Mix the ingredients for five minutes.

Step 4 - Use a Wheelbarrow

Working quickly, pour the mixture into a wheelbarrow. The mixture will begin to harden in about 15 minutes.

Step 5 - Pour It On

Once you have poured the grout over the rock, use a squeegee pushing the mixture into the joints. Make sure not to leave any excess grout by moving the squeegee diagonally across the field and along the lips. Work in one small area at a time beginning from the front of the driveway.

Step 6 - Remove Sand

Using your garden hose, remove any excess sand by lightly spraying it off the rock field. Squeegee any excessive sand and water off the driveway before adding more grout.

Step 7 - Let It Dry

Allow six hours for optimum drying. Don't walk or put any weight on the grouted area.

Step 8 - Repeat

Work small areas continuing toward the street until the entire driveway is complete.