While rubble masonry is considered the lowest class of stone work, it still can be used to make enduring structures and is peculiarly suited to DIY projects.
Category Archives: Construction
Different Classes of Masonry Part 2: Squared-stone
Squared-stone masonry is a method of building masonry to achieve a highly durable structure without resorting to the difficulty and labor required for ashlar.
Different Classes of Masonry Part 1: Ashlar
Ashlar is the highest grade of stone work, and features extensive stone cutting and tight fitting joints. Ashlar work is difficult, but very durable due to the precision required.
Building Better Masonry
Masonry is rewarding undertaking. There is no “magic” behind building enduring structures, rather, stone masonry is easily learned with practice.
Tapered Arches
Building an arch that is tapered by making the haunches thicker than the crown is a clever way to make a strong bridge without increasing the “hump.”
Capping Stone Walls
The stones atop of a stone wall are fairly easily dislodged, especially for mortarless builds. Here are some ideas to help keep everything in place.
Building Solid Foundations on Weak Ground
Where a stone arch bridge must be founded on soft ground, there are several simple steps can be taken to prevent settling of the structure.
Mortarless (Drystack) Retaining Walls
Mortarless stone retaining walls have to resist the perpetual thrust of the soil they are withholding. Here are several ways this can be done.
The Keystone
The keystone, while generally no more important than any other arch stone, does require some special attention to fit properly.
Effective Arch Thickness
Effective arch thickness is the measure of how much of an arch’s thickness is supporting weight. This means that even imperfect arches can be strong.
Stone Arch Bridges 