Category: Maintenance

  • Thompson Bridge

    The Different Kinds of Mortar

    In this post we will briefly examine what makes the various types of commercially available mortar mixes different, and how this relates to repairing historic structures.

  • Double Arch Bridge

    When Walls Bulge

    Bulging walls in the approaches and spandrel walls of a stone arch bridge indicate excessive force against them. This type of problem is fairly simply addressed.

  • Deteriorated Stonework

    Understanding Longitudinal Cracks in Arches

    Longitudinal cracking is a common defect on stone arch bridges. While often not overly serious, under the right conditions this cracking can indicate a major problem.

  • Waterline Deterioration

    Monitoring Stone Bridges

    Regular checking on the progress of any and all deterioration of a stone bridge can allow serious problems to be corrected early, saving future expense and trouble.

  • Buried Arch

    Understanding Mortar in Old Bridges

    The design of a stone bridge, which often reflects the era of its construction, determines how critical mortar condition is for long-term stability.

  • Wilson Bridge

    Stone Arch Bridge Rehabilitation

    Here are several methods that have been developed to repair stone bridges that consistently extend the life and usefulness of the structure.

  • NE 110th Street Double Arch Walnut River bridge

    Improving a Stone Arch Bridge’s Serviceability by Strengthening: Part 2

    Here are several ways to strengthen a stone arch bridge, ranging from distributing loads over the arch to relieving the bridge from load altogether.

  • Wolf Creek Bridge

    Improving a Stone Arch Bridge’s Serviceability by Strengthening: Part 1

    To determine how to strengthen a stone arch bridge, it helps to understand how it behaves when overloaded in order to understand the forces at play.

  • DIY stone arch culvert

    Mortarless Bridge Maintenance: Part 2

    Mortarless stone arch bridges need extra care to ensure they are not overwhelmed by foliage and that friction between stones remains high.