Stone Arch Bridges

Category: Construction

  • Split Limestone

    Splitting Limestone

    Splitting and hillside quarrying of limestone with feathers and wedges is a simple process. Here are some practical tips we found that make splitting this versatile building stone easier.

  • Arch Grout

    Making Strong Mortar

    Properly mixing and curing mortar can make a huge difference in the long-term durability of the mortar. If properly done, mortar can last for many years without maintenance.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Stones inserted into to the arch joints

    The Challenge of Small Arches

    Small stone arch bridges present some unique building challenges by virtue of their small size. In some ways they are more difficult to build and less efficient in their use of material than larger arches.

  • Stone Culvert Near Town of Oak Valley

    Deciding Where to Build a Stone Bridge

    Some locations are more ideal for building a stone bridge than others. In this post, we look at what sort of stream characteristics are ideally suited for easy stone bridge construction.

  • Model Roman arch

    The Thrust of the Roman Arch

    The Roman arch has many subtle peculiarities, which in turn make it a good choice for bridge design. In this post we delve in depth into the properties of the Roman arch.

  • Oak Valley culvert (10)

    Abutment Design Theory

    Designing a stable abutment for a stone arch bridge requires that the abutment be thick enough that the thrust line of the arch be safely contained within the thickness of the abutment.