What are the different types of stone masonry?

Short Answer:

Stone masonry is a construction method that uses stones and mortar to build walls, foundations, and other structures. There are different types of stone masonry based on how the stones are shaped, arranged, and finished. The two main categories are rubble masonry and ashlar masonry, and each has several sub-types depending on the level of stone dressing and wall finish.

Rubble masonry uses irregular and rough stones, while ashlar masonry uses finely dressed and uniform stones. Each type is chosen based on appearance, strength needed, and cost. These types help in building everything from boundary walls to historical buildings and monuments.

Detailed Explanation:

Different types of stone masonry

Stone masonry is an ancient and strong method of construction where natural stones are arranged with mortar to form walls and other structures. The quality, shape, and arrangement of stones affect the strength, cost, and look of the final structure. Stone masonry is durable and resistant to weather, making it suitable for both ordinary buildings and decorative structures.

The two major types of stone masonry are:

  1. Rubble Masonry

Rubble masonry is built using undressed or roughly dressed stones, meaning the stones are not given a regular shape. These stones have uneven surfaces and are laid in random or irregular ways. This type is cheaper and faster to construct but may not look as neat as ashlar masonry.

Types of rubble masonry:

  • Random rubble masonry: The stones are used in their natural, irregular shapes without much cutting. It is the most basic and economical form. The stones are laid without any specific pattern.
  • Coursed rubble masonry: Stones are roughly dressed and arranged in somewhat level layers or courses. Each course may not be of equal height, but it looks more organized than random rubble.
  • Dry rubble masonry: Mortar is not used; stones are fitted tightly together by hand. This is used in retaining walls or rural construction.
  • Uncoursed rubble masonry: Stones are not laid in courses, but the focus is on fitting them closely without much dressing.

Rubble masonry is widely used in rural areas, compound walls, retaining walls, and places where appearance is not the main concern.

  1. Ashlar Masonry

Ashlar masonry uses well-dressed stones, which means all stones are cut into uniform size and shape. The joints between the stones are thin and even, giving the wall a clean and polished look. It is more expensive than rubble masonry but provides better appearance and strength.

Types of ashlar masonry:

  • Ashlar fine masonry: Stones are cut very accurately and placed with thin mortar joints. It gives a smooth and elegant finish.
  • Ashlar rough tooled masonry: The face of the stone is roughly tooled but the sides and beds are smooth for fitting. It gives a slightly textured look.
  • Ashlar rock-faced masonry: The front face of the stone is left rough and natural-looking, but the rest of the stone is dressed for proper joining.
  • Ashlar chamfered masonry: The edges of each stone are chamfered (beveled), creating a decorative groove in the joints.

Ashlar masonry is often used in monuments, government buildings, bridges, and temples, where appearance and precision are important.

Conclusion:

The different types of stone masonry are mainly classified into rubble masonry and ashlar masonry, each with further sub-types based on stone dressing and arrangement. Rubble masonry is rough and economical, while ashlar masonry is more refined and elegant. The choice depends on the function, budget, and look required for the structure.