Masonry is one of the oldest forms of craftsmanship still used today. It is a great way to add elegance and sophistication to any building. With its durability and longevity, it is popular with countless homeowners. Many different types of stone masonry are used in construction. Let’s look at some of the types of stone masonry so you can make an educated decision for your next project.
What are the Types of Stone Masonry?
Although there is a wide range of different masonry techniques, stone masonry is divided into two main types: rubble masonry and ashlar masonry. Each of these categories has its own subtypes. Understanding the basic techniques will help you better understand your next construction project and help you communicate with your masonry contractor about which design and method you prefer.
Rubble Masonry
Rubble masonry uses rough, undressed stones that look like building rubble. This style is most commonly used in rustic homes and buildings. If you prefer the antique, traditional look, then this is perfect for you. Rubble masonry also comes in a few different subtypes:
Random Rubble Masonry
Random rubble masonry uses stones with rough shaping, or stones that haven’t had any shaping done to them. The stones are carefully laid out to distribute the weight over a wide area while avoiding long vertical joints at the same time. This gives the structure both an organized and pieced-together look at the same time.
Squared Rubble Masonry
This masonry technique is slightly more polished than random rubble masonry. The raw stones are hammered to square off the corners and give them a more uniform look. Square rubble masonry can be done in many different ways. The rocks can be laid in a straight horizontal pattern or more random arrangement without any defined joints.
Ashlar Masonry
The other main type of stone masonry construction is ashlar masonry. It uses dressed stones that are laid in place with mortar or cement. The stones used are precut and dressed with specific height and surface measurements. This allows you to have more control over the size and location of the joints. The subtypes of ashlar masonry include:
Fine Masonry
Each stone is shaped finely to create uniform rectangular stones that have perfect joints on all sides. This style is more labor-intensive and expensive.
Rough-Tooled Masonry
Similar to fine masonry, the sides are finely shaped to create even joints. However, the faces of the stones remain rough to create more texture.
Quarry-Faced Masonry
In this style, a strip is chiseled around the perimeter of each stone to create an even joint. At the same time, the rough face of the stone gives it a natural look.
Contact Del Prete Masonry Today!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: commercial masonry, masonry contractor, Masonry repair