This
type of stonework is often
referred to as "Broken Ice" , but we just
considered it an interesting challenge.
Despite the time involved in creating something like
this, the result is worth it because what the
homeowners ended up with is something quite unique
and more of a conversation piece than simply a
patio. |
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There are many steps
involved in a job like this and it all starts with a
good foundation, which in this case was about a foot or
so of compacted aggregate. We then built the walls
which are made from Colonial Wallstone. We
parged them from the center and rear with mortar
for strength, but from the outside, they seem as if they
were simply dry-stacked, which was the look we were
after. |
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After cementing a
curved soldier course of irregular bluestone, all cut to
create both the curves and the joints, we then began
cutting and placing the individual stones - most of
which averaged three-inches in thickness - to create the
field. The homeowner's desire was to create
joints between the stones which would be no more than
1/4" to 3/8" in width. The entire field is dry
laid over a stone dust base to allow for drainage. |
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The finished job
does indeed resemble broken ice. It appears as
a large jigsaw puzzle and there's also a rather
dramatic difference between the way it looks when
it's dry and when it's wet, which also enhances
its appeal.
As patios go, it's certainly not
for the budget-minded, but if you're looking to
indulge yourself with something truly unique, then
maybe something like this might be just what you're
looking for. |
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