stone masonry - folsom, ca - Call (916) 571-0908
Stones are strong construction materials and just like bricks and concrete blocks, they are used in walls, foundations, and other masonry works. Like any other building block, stones require a binding element i.e. mortar. There are 2 major categories of stone masonry: Ashlar and Rubble masonry. Skillful masons know how to arrange stones into polygonal designs so as to enhance the beauty of a structure. We provide all masonry services involving stones and other types of construction materials. Call us today at 916-571-0908 if you want a free estimate or for any inquiry.
Rubble Masonry These are types of stones which come in irregular shapes and sizes. There are hammered to eliminate sharp edges. They can either be coursed or non-coursed. Coursed stones are used in both residential and commercial buildings while the non-coursed designs are used in garages, foundations, labor quarters, and compound walls. In square rubble masonry, Stones with straight sides and bed are used in construction. The shape of the stones is square and they are dressed into straight cut finishes. The construction involves courses of different depths. Ashlar Masonry Ashlar masonry stones are shaped into desirable sizes and shapes as per the requirements of a project. The height of the stones may vary from 250-300 millimeters while the length must not go beyond their tripled height. Shaping ashlar masonry is known as dressing which must not necessarily produce accurate sides and edges. The facing side in most cases is the one that requires careful dressing. The ashlar stones require less mortar as compared to when rubble stones are used. The intensity of dressing determines the type of ashlar masonry applied e.g. ashlar rock, ashlar rough, ashlar chamfered, ashlar facing, and so on. Call us at 916-571-0908 for free estimates. |
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Stone Masonry Construction Tips
- Stone dressing is done according to the requirements
- Stones are placed on natural beds
- The distance of using through stones is within 1.5 m
- Backing and facing sides are placed carefully and leveled with wood templates
- The stones need to be wet before placement to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the mortar
- Stones without defects are the best for building durable structures
- The verticalness of a stone structure must be inspected using a plumb-bob
- Consistent vertical joints must be avoided
- The height of the stone masonry needs to raised in uniform
- Stones must be installed below trusses, beams, and sills
- Stone chips and mortar form the heart of masonry
- Thicker mortar joints must be avoided
- The proportions of mortar constituents (cement and sand) must be accurate
- Masonry units built on previous day must be cleaned first and loose debris swept away
- Enough time for curing should be allowed (2 or 3 weeks)
Stone Masonry Benefits
If you haven’t thought about stones for your next building, the following benefits should give you reasons to apply stone masonry.
Cost-Effectiveness
If you want to reduce electricity bills and maintenance expenses of your building, you need to use stone masonry for you next permanent structure. The beauty and durability of stones make them cost-efficient in the long run.
Longevity
These building materials have been proven to last throughout history. Investing in stones ensures that you don’t just fall for the passing trends which crumble sooner or later. Stones are tough and last a lifetime.
Beauty
Some popular landmarks on earth are constructed in stones e.g. Taj Mahal in Accra and the Egyptian pyramids. These structures have been there since time immemorial and have historical and international influences. The time-tested elegance of stones can be used to improve the landscape design of any property through the help of the topnotch masonry contractors.
Safety
Stones do not burn, curve, or melt. They are some of the safest and long-lasting materials of construction. They are highly tolerant to any temperature and that is why everything in a stone building may burn but the stones remain intact. They are the best options for fireplaces and chimneys and any other space on earth.
Eco-Efficiency
Choosing stones for buildings is choosing a sustainable environment. Since they last forever, they reduce the amount of landfill. Stones do not rust and as such don’t have to be painted unless for aesthetic purposes. They demand very minimal maintenance. When combined with appropriate insulation, stone houses reduce energy bills involved in heating and cooling, thereby saving energy.
Whether you are remodeling a fireplace, driveway, retaining wall, or chimney, you should consider stone masonry because of it various modern, historical, and timeless benefits. We look forward to hearing from you concerning your next construction project. Contact our expert stone masons at 916-571-0908.