Choosing a Style of Masonry
There are several main styles in which stone is layed, each with its own distinctive look – and level of difficulty for the mason.
In turn, costs per meter vary depending on the stone and style selected.
As a starting point for your stone work you will need to decide on a style that you like, and you feel will be appropriate for the environment it will be layed in.
We can help you to select something that will fit your project and budget. Take a look a few of the options below to help get you started.
Dry Stack
Originally this style of stone work was erected to clear rocks from paddocks to contain stock.
It doesn’t require the use of concrete or mortar, but relies instead simply on gravity and the weight of the stone to lock into place.
More commonly used in retainer or free-standing landscape walls. Rarely used for cladding.
Fireplaces
Interior or exterior, the fireplace is a centerpiece.
Whether big or small it adds a tremendous and valuable feature to any home.
There are some regulations that must be adhered to with your fireplace, but in terms of design we can work with you to create something truly impressive and suitable to your needs.
Mortar Joint
The spacing between each stone ranges from 5mm through to, in some cases, up to 30mm.
The mortar is scratched and brushed back to give a shadowed effect that showcases each individual stone.
This is quite a popular and contemporary style.
Bagged | Pointed
A traditional style where the mortar spaces between the layed stone are pointed with render, which can be coloured to suit.
When cured, we brush back the surface to expose the sand aggregate so that it sits flush with the stone face.
Paving
Often referred to as ‘crazy paving’, the flat surface is layed in its natural form.
The gaps between the rock are pointed with mortar, cured and brushed back flush to expose the rock aggregate.
The finished product has a distinctive and stylish mosaic look.
A helpful method to get you going on the decision process is to provide your mason with a photo of some stonework that you like the look of. Or alternatively, the location of some existing work that appeals to you.