Hello, all stone enthusiasts!
Here’s Lewyn from Natural by Design back again to share some more dry-stone walling expertise with you. Today’s focus is on a common issue many dry-stone wall owners face – repairs. If your dry-stone wall is starting to show signs of wear and tear, here’s how you can go about fixing it:
- **Sorting Your Stones**: The first step entails stripping out the damaged part of the wall. While you’re doing this, be sure to separate the stones into three categories – footing stones, walling stones, and top stones.
- **Assessing Your Footings**: Look at the state of the existing footings. If they’re filled with dirt or structurally compromised, you may need to dig them out and reinstall. Always ensure you dig down to the clay layer to provide a stable foundation.
- **Building Support Frames**: Construct A-shaped frames at the sides of the damaged area. These will help keep the shape of the wall during repairs. Secure these frames with building pins and cable ties to reduce movement.
- **Using a String Line**: String lines tied to both support frames at different heights will guide the wall construction. The first line near the base determines the height of the footing.
- **Constructing the Wall**: Begin rebuilding your wall, using the largest stones for the footing. As you layer the stones, adjust the string line height accordingly. Ensure the stones run lengthways into the wall for additional strength, and avoid placing consecutive stones with vertical joints.
- **Filling the Wall**: As you progress, fill the inside of the wall with smaller stones, or ‘infill’. Ensuring a tight fit with minimal movement of these stones will contribute to the strength of your repaired wall.
- **Completing the Wall**: Once the wall section is rebuilt, finish off the top layer with the topstones you set aside initially.
Remember that while basic repairs can be done following this guide, some damages may require professional intervention. Should you need our expert services or want to learn advanced insights on dry-stone walling, visit our website at Natural by Design. We offer consultations and professional services,
Happy repairing!
Best wishes,
Lewyn
Natural By Design
www.naturalbydesign.co.uk
Natalie, Studio: