Chumasande MatiwaneDry stone walling is a traditional building technique that has been practised around the Mediterranean for centuries. This method has gained popularity worldwide due to its distinctive characteristics. It involves constructing walls without using any mortar to hold the stones together.
Dry stone walling is mostly used as preparation for planting, as well as for windbreak and erosion prevention. They are eco-friendly, as they require no cement or mortar, reducing the carbon footprint associated with construction.
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How to build a dry stone wall
The two most common types of dry stone walls are the single dry stone wall and the double dry stone wall. When contributing one, it is important to know which one will work for your yard. Use the below as a guide to construct the best dry stone wall for your garden.
Site preparation
Before you even begin with anything building-related. Site preparation is key. Always make sure you clear and level the area where you intend to build your wall.
Mark out the frame
When building stone walls, measure the area of the frame to ensure that the wall is even, level, and built with the correct slope. The frames act as a guide to make sure you are building at the angle. You can even DIY a battered frame made of wood to be super accurate about your angles.
Dig out the foundation
Many people may assume that dry stone walls are freestanding on level ground. Depending on the intended width and height of your wall, dig a sufficiently deep hole. The foundation should consist of the largest stones.
Start with the building
Once you have collected your stones and they are ready for use, you can begin the construction process. First, sort the stones into different piles based on their sizes: large, medium, and small. Select suitable stones according to their size, shape, and strength. Carefully place the large stones in the foundation area, ensuring that each stone is large enough to bridge the gaps between two stones in the foundation layer.
Finishing the wall
Once the wall is built, it’s time to finish it. On the top layer of the wall are large stones, so they overhang the wall slightly. This helps to protect the wall from weathering and other factors.
Maintaining your wall
Dry stone walls require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition and prevent them from falling over. This may involve removing loose stones, replacing damaged stones, and cleaning the wall to prevent weathering.
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ALSO SEE: SIGNS YOUR HOME WINDOWS ARE DUE FOR REPLACEMENT
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