Stone Arch Bridges

Category: Maintenance

  • Front Circle Crack

    The Significance of Cracking

    Cracks in masonry indicate tension in the structure. The nature of the crack provides clues to the underlying cause of this stress, and can be a very clear indicator of structural problems.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Repairing With Concrete: Strengths and Weaknesses

    Concrete has frequently been used over the years to repair masonry structures. Sometimes, the structures thus repaired have held up well over the years, while others have deteriorated rapidly. In this post we investigate what makes the difference.

  • Detail of Repair to the Ellis Bridge

    Patching Damaged Masonry Part 2: Doing the Work

    Patching damaged masonry without dismantling large portions of a sructure is a delicate procedure, but can be done with care. Here are some tips on executing this type of project successfully.

  • Damage to Pudden Bridge

    Patching Damaged Masonry Part 1: The Concepts

    Patching damaged sections of masonry is possible without dismantling large sections of the structure. The key is understanding how the forces in the structure interact to allow a damaged structure to stand.

  • Damage to Clements Bridge

    Retaining Walls: Failure and Repairs

    The retaining walls (spandrels and approaches) in a stone arch bridge are prone to failure thanks to their relatively thin width. However, there are several things that can be done to repair and prevent these failures.