Masonry Magazine August 2012 Page. 17
IT'S HARD TO
BELIEVE THAT
ANYONE CAN
IMPROVE UPON
NATURE.
Column capitals, shafts, bases, arch mouldings and the fountain area all are made of Cast Stone.
Cast stone and other materials
ARCHITECTURAL CAST STONE is an architectural precast concrete building unit intended to simulate natural cut stone and used in unit masonry applications. As per ASTM C-1364, Standard Specification for Architectural Cast Stone, units must comply with a minimum of 6,500 psi compressive strength, less than 6 percent absorption (ASTM 1194 and 1195) and 5 percent cumulative percentage weight loss or less at 300 cycles for Freeze Thaw (ASTMC666). These requirements are applicable whether the product is manufactured by dry tamp, wet cast or machine-made methods. ASTM C-1364 is referenced in the 2012 International Building Code as the definition for cast stone and is, therefore, a legally binding in jurisdictions that have adopted the building codes. Any other industry specification is for reference only as an industry recommendation.
Cast stone is made from fine and coarse aggregates, Portland cement, sand, mineral oxide color pigments, chemical admixtures and water. It is distinguished by its fine surface texture and is available in virtually any color. It can be reinforced as needed to increase the structural integrity and is made from molds with precise measurements to make it easy for the mason to install on site. Lifting inserts, anchors, kerfs and drips can be cast into the stone, which reduces labor for the mason in the field. Because of these attributes, cast stone simulates a variety of types of natural stone including, but not limited to, limestone, granite, slate, travertine or marble.
Since cast stone is a heavyweight product, it is anchored into a wall system, and used as an architectural feature, trim, ornament or veneer on commercial and residential buildings and other structures. Applications for cast stone range from the simplest windowsills to the most complicated architectural elements, including use as a masonry veneer product. It is listed under Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) Masterspec in Division 04 7200.
Architectural precast is a type of precast concrete that includes components ranging from massive panels to hand set units. Architectural precast has no ASTM designation, but relies on industry standards. A minimum strength of 5,000 psi, absorption of less than 6 percent is required with no freeze-thaw considered. Architectural precast tends to be made from course aggregates, sand, color pigment and Portland cement. The finish may show exposed aggregate and visible bug holes. It generally is specified for architectural panels, columns and large architectural elements and installed as a precast product as opposed to a masonry veneer.
Cast Stone was used in the base of the buildings, stairways, terraces and garden ornamentation.
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Indiana Cut Stone is America's leading Indiana Limestone fabricator.
Our experienced office staff and highly experienced craftsman ensure every stone we make is beautiful.
Indiana Cut Stone
Natural. Eternal Limestone
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Kevin Rainey
Indiana Cut Stone
Limestone Craftsman
READER SERVICE #173
August 2012
MASONRY 15