Stone Arch Bridges

Author: StoneArchBridges

  • Indian Creek Bridge

    An Overview of Elk County’s Stone Bridges

    Elk County, Kansas may never have built more than a few large stone bridges, but it still has an enormous amount of unique stone arch culverts, and undoubtedly more are waiting to be found.

  • stone cutting 10

    Choosing Stonecutting Hammers

    Choosing the correct hammer can aid considerably in stonecutting. The weight of the head, the material of the handle, and whether the hammer is blunt or pointed all play an important role in the usage of the tool.

  • Collapsed Fox Bridge

    Understanding Three-Leaf Masonry

    Three-leaf masonry is a form of masonry construction that consists of stone facing walls protecting a lower quality interior fill. In this post we investigate this type of masonry and its implications for repair.

  • Independence Road Culvert

    An Overview of Chautauqua County Stone Bridges

    Chautauqua County, Kansas, built many stone arch culverts on major roads. Though large bridges were very rare in this county, the stone culverts feature a remarkable range of features, and often are related to the Good Roads Movement.

  • Clements Bridge

    Chase County’s Stone Bridges

    Chase County, Kansas, used to have many stone arch bridges, most of which were premium-quality structures. Only three of these bridges remain now. These remaining bridges are a picturesque part of the Flint Hills.

  • Rubble Arch Detail

    Rubble Arch Building: Choosing the Stone

    Though some care is used in selecting and placing the stones in a rubble arch, rubble masonry can be readily used to build a strong arch for a stone arch bridge.

  • Hinges

    Hinges and the Arch

    Hinges are a part of how an arch collapses. In this post we investigate hinges, how they can be formed, and the ramifications for a stone arch bridge.

  • Detail of Repair to the Ellis Bridge

    Repairing Broken Stones

    Repairing damaged stones is possible, at least if the damage is not too severe. Mechanical ties, grouting, and even epoxy binders are options for repairs where it is preferable not to actually replace the damaged stones.

  • Partial Collapse of Pudden Bridge

    Maintaining Piers

    Maintaining piers is an important part of keeping a stone arch bridge in service for many years. Piers are vulnerable to the action of the water, and should be given special attention during inspections.