WHAT IS A DRY STONE WALL?

Dry stone walls are walls made of stone without cement or mortar. This traditional technique originated before cement was invented. It has continued to be used because it does not need the cost of the cement and, more important, such walls last longer than cement walls if the ground is soft or the foundations move. If the wall has been well made, the stones will move but still stay together.

Dry stone walls are an important and attractive part of the landscape. They follow the form of the land and lead the eye. They often feature in paintings and photographs.

In all cases it is essential to find a skilled person since the life of a wall is very dependent on the skill of the waller.

Good quality stone work should last 100-150 years with a minimum of maintenance. Failure of works within 5 years is frequent, often the result of cheap tendering and a subsequent emphasis on speed rather than quality.

The difference between good and bad work in walling is possibly greater than any other skill.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

· Dry stone walls are a haven for wildlife and offer shelter to farm animals.

· A dry stone wall constructed correctly will last indefinitely.

· Dry stone walls that separate farms from common land are called 'march walls'.

· One of the earliest recorded dry stone walls was discovered in 2000BC.

Approximately 1 tonne of stone equals 1 metre of wall length.