Here are some tips and ideas for new DIY stone arch bridge designs, ranging from fill and backing choices to arch construction tips to a wingwall design idea.
When Walls Bulge
Bulging walls in the approaches and spandrel walls of a stone arch bridge indicate excessive force against them. This type of problem is fairly simply addressed.
The Walz Ford Bridge
A summery of the history and characteristics of the Walz Ford Bridge, which is a little-known double-arch bridge in Butler County, Kansas, built by Walter Sharp.
More Butler County, Kansas, Stone Culverts
In this post we announce our discovery of three stone culverts in Glencoe Township, Butler County, Kansas and summarize their characteristics.
Ribbed Arches
Though ribbed arches are usually associated with concrete, it is possible to build a stone arch bridge out of separate parallel arch ribs, thereby saving centering.
Why Stone Arch Bridges?
There are several advantages inherent to the stone arch bridge. Aesthetics, a valuable use of local resources and longevity all are factors in favor of stone arch bridges.
Understanding Longitudinal Cracks in Arches
Longitudinal cracking is a common defect on stone arch bridges. While often not overly serious, under the right conditions this cracking can indicate a major problem.
The Final Tally: Stone Arch Bridges Built by Butler County, Kansas
Here is the number and percentage of stone arch bridges remaining in Butler County, Kansas that were built by the county with similar statistics for each builder.
Lighter Stone Bridges
Stone bridges are inherently quite heavy. This can sometimes cause foundational or arch problems, prompting designers to come up with ingenious solutions.
Choosing Quality Rock
Even with a given type of stone, there can be considerable variation. It helps to recognize some basic signs of poor stone to ensure long-term durability.
Stone Arch Bridges 