Stone Arch Bridges

Tag: Quality of Construction

  • The Plaque of the Wilson Bridge

    Mortar Maintenance Part 2: In Practice

    Repointing mortar is a regular maintenance item in mortared structures such as stone arch bridges. In this post, we investigate the procedures for successfully repointing.

  • Working With Stone Part 1: Some Basics

    Here are some basic pointers on selection and placement of the stones used in a stone bridge. This is part of a series on stonework, ranging from basic selection to cutting wedges.

  • Drystack Wall

    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.

  • The Structural Significance of Solid Backing: Part 1

    Solid backing is actually a major structural component of a stone arch bridge which uses it. One of its advantages is that it provides a more consistent stiffness behind the arch.

  • Augusta/Towanda Township Line Culvert

    Butler County’s Gothic Stone Culvert

    We recently found another little-known stone arch bridge in Butler County, Kansas, north of Augusta. This culvert is unique as it features a pointed, Gothic-style arch.

  • Arch Construction

    Different Methods of Laying Arches

    There are several ways to build a stone arch. Each method has advantages and potential pitfalls, but choosing the right one for you can make stone bridge building easier.

  • Front Circle Crack

    Repairing Fill-Related Problems

    Fill-related problems in a stone arch bridge take on several forms, but often result in bulging, sliding, and failure of bridge components. These problems can be addressed.

  • Rubble Arch Detail

    Building Rubble Arches

    Stone arches made with rubble masonry are easy to construct, and can be quite strong. The key to successfully building a rubble arch is in the laying and shimming of the stones.