Masonry Magazine November 2012 Page. 36

Words: Steve Fechino
Masonry Magazine November 2012 Page. 36

Masonry Magazine November 2012 Page. 36
NATURAL STONE
to the computer and, from there, the drawings are converted to a 3D model and then programmed as machine code into the cutter. Once the cutter is done, Indiana Cut Stone's team of skilled artisans adds any finishing touches, and the replacement piece can be installed in the missing section.

Smaller repairs
CHIPPING IS COMMON on older stone structures. To repair pits or tiny chips, special mortars and sealants are applied and then sanded, and, perhaps, painted to match the surrounding stonework once the repair has set. Restoration experts have to be careful to avoid adhesives and mortars that will degrade the surrounding limestone.

How the restorer handles damage to and repair of Indiana Limestone can make all the difference between a good job that lasts and a marginal one that does not. The Indiana Limestone Institute of America recommends that very small chips and snips be left alone, since they don't detract from the appearance of the finished work, especially if they aren't at eye level. Limestone fabricators may use specially designed limestone cements to restore large chips during manufacturing. In restoring a damaged surface, if the chip can be found, it may be possible to restore it to its place with the same thermo-setting resin adhesive, or cyanoacrylate "superglue" that the manufacturer uses. In areas not usually visible to the public, a small square void can be cut into the stone and a "Dutchman," or matching plug, can be installed to fill the void. The Dutchman is secured with thermo-setting resin.

Cracked stones should be replaced, especially if the structural integrity is suspect. If the stone is not load bearing or is impossible to remove, it also can be repaired with thermo-setting resin.

There
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The most rugged, versatile and cost effective tools of the trade. The widest variety of styles and sizes, made from the finest materials. Tools that last and last, even when used on the hardest stone. MADE TO LAST SINCE 1890 IN BARRE, VERMONT USA

TROW & HOLDEN COMPANY
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45 South Main Street Barre Vermont 05641
Toll-Free 1-800-451-4349-802-476-7221
www.trowandholden.com
Please write or call for a free catalog

November 2012 www.masoncontractors.org
ITRUST CER
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