What causes the deterioration of stones?

The factors considered to be among the leading causes of building stone deterioration include salt crystallization, aqueous dissolution, frost damage, microbiological growth, human contact, and original construction.

What is the preservation of stone?

Preservation of stone is essential to prevent its decay. Different types of stones require different treatments. But in general stones should be made dry with the help of blow lamp and then a coating of paraffin, linseed oil, light paint, etc. is applied over the surface. This makes a protective coating over the stone.

What is the durability of stone?

Stone, in general, is considered a durable material; however, not all stones are as durable as one might anticipate. Stone durability is dependent on its composition, which can affect strength and appearance, and environmental exposure factors.

What are the classification of stones?

Based on Geology, stones or rocks are classified into three types: Igneous Rocks – Basalt, Trap, Andesite, Rhyolite, Diorite, Granite. Sedimentary Rocks – Lime stones, Dolomite and Sandstones. Metamorphic Rocks – Gneiss, Quartzite, Marble, Slate.

Why dressing of stone is required?

The dressing of stones is important so that they are dressed in suitable shapes and polished to give a smooth surface if desired. The stones are used in different types of masonry; therefore, it has to be cut and shaped to fit in the type of work needed.

How are artificial stones made?

Artificial stone, which is also called casted stone, is constructed from cement, sand , and natural aggregate such as crushed stone. it is possible to provide certain surface textures to artificial stones. Sometimes, specific pigments used to achieve certain color.

Which factors affecting the durability of stone?

Answer: Durability is based upon the stones natural physical properties, characteristics and the environmental conditions to which it will be or is subjected too. Another factor of stones durability is its Aesthetic Durability or Dimensional Stability. Cosmetic changes may occur.

Can stone be preserved?

A stone preservative is intended to prolong the life of a stone by either restoring its physical integrity or by inhibiting its decay. Its use should not change the natural appearance or architectural value of the stone. There are two principal means by which stone can be preserved.

How do you find the durability of a stone?

Crystallization test of stone is performed to determine durability in which a specimen of 50 mm diameter and 50 mm height is dipped into sodium sulphate solution for 16 to 18 hours and weighed. The change in weight indicates the decay of stone.

Is natural stone durable?

Natural stone exhibits a durability not found in other building materials. There is an emotional connection to buildings and monuments built in stone that carries a great deal of meaning due to enduring history and a legacy of mankind through the ages.

What is the disadvantage of stone?

Disadvantages of Stone- The weight of the natural stone is heavier than artificial stone, and therefore its use in the building is time-consuming. Climate and environmental changes affect the texture of the rock and cause cracking, mildew, and dandruff on the surface.

What are the 3 main rock types?

There are three kinds of rock: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Igneous rocks form when molten rock (magma or lava) cools and solidifies. Sedimentary rocks originate when particles settle out of water or air, or by precipitation of minerals from water. They accumulate in layers.

What are the main causes of stone deterioration?

Causes of stone deterioration The various natural agents such as rain, heat, etc. and chemicals deteriorate the stones with time. 1.Rain Rain water acts both physically and chemically on stones.

Why do rocks deteriorate over time?

Since wind carries dust particles, the abrasion caused by these deteriorates the stones. Expansion and contraction due to frequent temperature changes cause stone to deteriorate especially if a rock is composed of several minerals with different coefficients of linear expansion.

Why do stones decay in the rain?

When these come in contact with moisture or rain water, bacteriological process starts and the resultant micro-organism producing acids attack stones which cause decay. When different types of stones are used together mutual decay takes place.

What are the disadvantages of using limestone under sandstone?

For example when sandstone is used under limestone, the chemicals brought down from limestone by rain water to the sandstone will deteriorate it. Smokes, fumes, acids and acid fumes present in the atmosphere deteriorate the stones. Stones containing CaCO 3, MgCO 3 are affected badly.