What is a through stone or bond stone?

A stone extending across the entire thickness of the wall to tie the two faces together, preventing the wall from splitting into two separate layers.

How many bond stones are required in rubble masonry?

At least one bond stone should be provided for every 0.5 square meter of the wall surface.

What is the maximum height of rubble masonry that can be constructed in one day?

It is generally restricted to 0.6 m to prevent fresh mortar from yielding under the weight.

What is the minimum curing period for stone masonry?

The masonry should be kept constantly moist for a minimum period of 7 days.

IS 1597

: 2000

Construction of Stone Masonry - Code of Practice, Part 1: Rubble Stone Masonry

CurrentSpecializedCode of PracticeStructural Engineering · Building Construction Practices incl. Painting, Varnishing

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This code of practice covers the selection of materials and construction guidelines for random and coursed rubble stone masonry. It provides essential rules for laying stones, providing bond stones, preparing mortar, and curing to ensure the structural integrity of stone walls.

Construction of Stone Masonry - Code of Practice, Part 1: Rubble Stone Masonry

Quick Reference Values

bond stone frequency1 per 0.5 sq.m of wall surface

maximum construction height per day0.6 m

minimum curing period7 days

breadth of face stoneNot less than its height

thickness of joints in random rubbleNot more than 20 mm

Practical Notes

Always provide through stones (bond stones) at regular intervals to tie the inner and outer wythes together and prevent delamination of the wall.

Do not use excessive mortar to fill large voids between stones; use stone chips (spalls) tightly wedged instead.

Avoid building stone masonry too high in a single day (restrict to 0.6m) to prevent the bulging of wet mortar under the self-weight of the stones.