Stone Masonary

In a very strict sense, the term masonry is used to indicate the art of building the structures in stones. But broadly speaking, the term masonry is used to indicate the art of building the structures in either stones or bricks. The former type is called the stone masonry and the latter type is called the brick masonry.

For stone masonry the following materials are required as given below:

1. Stones:

Depending upon the availability, the stones are selected. The stones to be used in the work should be hard, durable, tough and free from any defect such as shake, vent, mottle, etc.

2. Mortar:

The mortar is required to keep the stones in position. It is prepared by mixing lime or cement with sand and after adding water, it is placed in the joints. The type of mortar to be used will depend on the strength required, load coming on the structure, resistance desired for weathering  agencies, etc. The usual varieties are lime mortar, cement mortar, cement - lime mortar and lime cement mortar.

i) Cement-lime mortar:

In cement lime mortar, a portion of cement is replaced by hydrated lime. It spreads more easily under the trowel and produces a more plastic material.

ii) Lime-cement mortar:

In lime cement mortar, a portion of lime is replaced by cement. It makes the mortar stronger, more plastic and workable. Also the mortar sets earlier.

The choice of mortar and its composition will be governed by several factors like type of masonry, situation of structure, intensity of load, degree of exposure to weather, type of bond, durability desired and some other special requirements like fire resistance, insulation, rate of hardening etc.

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