Construction – Stone Arch Bridges

The Importance of Compression: Part 4

In this series of posts we compare slab, truss, and arch bridges, and explain why compression is crucial to an arch and how the arch operating in compression makes it durable.

The Importance of Compression Part 3

In this series of posts we compare slab, truss, and arch bridges, and explain why compression is crucial to an arch and how the arch operating in compression makes it durable.

The Importance of Compression: Part 2

In this series of posts we compare slab, truss, and arch bridges, and explain why compression is crucial to an arch and how the arch operating in compression makes it durable.

The Importance of Compression Part 1

In this series of posts we compare slab, truss, and arch bridges, and explain why compression is crucial to an arch and how the arch operating in compression makes it durable.

When to Use Mortar?

In this post we discuss the practical and economical advantages and disadvantages of mortared and mortarless masonry in relation to DIY stone arch bridge building.

Working With Stone Part 4: Cutting Wedges

Here is a guide to cutting wedge-shaped stones using a bricklayer’s hammer. This is part of a series on stonework, ranging from basic stone selection to cutting wedges.

Working With Stone Part 3: Hammer Cutting

Here are some basic pointers on hammer cutting stone. This is part of a series on stonework, ranging from basic stone selection to cutting wedges.

Working With Stone Part 2: Tools and Basic Chisel Trimming

Here are some basic pointers on tool selection and basic chisel cutting. This is part of a series on stonework, ranging from basic stone selection to cutting wedges.

The Masonry Joints

Making tight masonry joints is probably the trickiest part of building stone masonry. Fortunately, there are several ways to tighten the joints easily. Then too, masonry can be forgiving.

The Structural Significance of Solid Backing: Part 2

Solid backing provides some major structural support to stone arch bridges which use it. In fact, the backing can, to a degree, act as a load-carrying span in its own right.