Stone masons have used stone to create timeless buildings across Canada and the United States, each unique to the types of stone common to their geographic region.

LISTEN...Part 1

Characteristics of Stone Masonry:

• Coursing Pattern: As walls are built up, the rows or "courses" of stone are laid in patterns, such as squared, random and polygonal.
• Stone Shape: A masonry wall may have stones that have been 'squared' - cut to a square shape and laid in courses. A 'rubble' stone wall will look more natural, with randomly sized stones. A 'riverstone' wall will have rocks that have been rounded by the flow of water. An 'ashlar' stone is one that has been shaped to flat faces, much like a brick.
• Arches: The stone arch is one of the most iconic and strongest structures created by stone masons. The arches may be elliptical, circular or pointed, like a Gothic arch on a church.
• Mortar: Sand, lime and water mixed together will create 'mortar', a thick paste that is applied between courses of stones to seal the joints and to adhere the structure together. Modern mortar mixes may have additives to extend the workability time or for different climates. A wall without mortar is called "dry laid".

LISTEN...Part 2

Important Considerations for Stone Masonry:

• Stone foundations may need to have mortar replaced or repaired - this is called 'pointing' and involves clearing out the old mortar and filling in with new.
• It is possible to have stone walls rebuilt and repaired by a qualified stone mason.
• The types of stone used in local buildings will depend on what types have been quarried or removed from the ground. Different geographies will produce stones of varied colour and hardness. Sourcing stone for a repair or replacement will require research into local quarries.