Dry Stone Walls
Dry Stone Walls
Why dry stone walls...
Dry stone construction combines beauty with function and durability in a way that cannot be achieved with any other material or construction method. Dry stone is one of the oldest construction techniques.
Dry stone construction has been a successful building technique throughout the ages because of it's unique range of benefits. Wallers need a minimum of tools to erect structures that are remarkably durable, yet, if damaged, are easily repaired. They resist fire, water, and insects. If correctly designed, they are earthquake resistant. The work does not deplete natural resources and aesthetically compliments and enhances the landscape. Dry stone construction is an environmentally friendly technique using locally available, natural materials with a lower environmental impact and energy cost than concrete products, treated timber or plastics. Dry stone work is also completely and repeatedly recyclable.
Dry stone wall structures, also referred to as dry stack, have many advantages over mortared walls. Walls without mortar rely on the skill of the craftsmen and the forces of gravity and frictional resistance. They have a slight flexibility that allows them to conform to foundation settlement without damage. Because the sides slope slightly inward, ground movement locks the structure more tightly together. Importantly, a stiff concrete footing is not needed, saving labour and materials expense. Dry stone walls can be built on ground where no post can be driven and where no hedge can grow and they have built in drainage.
When constructed properly and maintained, dry stone walling work is extremely durable. Many dry stone walls have stood for 200 years and look like standing for another century. A well built wall should last well over 100 years, given a small amount of maintenance.
JRM Stonework, based in Adelaide, South Australia, specialises in dry stone, whether it be new construction or repair work: stairways, paths, free-standing and retaining dry stone walls, arches, pillars water and artistic features, bridges, restoring/rebuilding historic structures. JRM Stonework's clients are assured of the same attention to detail and quality of work, whatever size their project, whether large or small. Developing and maintaning a good relationship with the client is of great importance to the success of any project and central to the ethic of JRM Stonework.
New Work
New Work
Repairs / Restoration
Repairs / Restoration
Whether your dry stone wall is 5 years old or 180 years old, JRM Stonework have the skills and experience to conserve, repair or restore it.
