chinking
Chinking in the context of dry laid stone walls refers to the use of
small stones or wedges, known as chinks, to fill gaps between larger
stones in the wall. This process helps to tighten up loose-fitting
rocks and enhance the stability of the wall.
The process of chinking a dry laid stone wall involves several steps.
First, the larger stones are carefully fit into place, held there by
gravity. Then, smaller stones or wedges, known as chinks, are driven
into the face of the wall to fill any gaps or secure loose rocks.
Safety glasses are recommended during this process to protect the eyes
from shards of stone.
It’s important to note that in a dry laid stone wall, chinks are not
just visual fillers. They should be securely placed to contribute to
the overall stability of the wall. Chinks that are merely placed to
visually fill a hole but can be easily removed do not contribute to
the wall’s stability and may fall out over time.
In some cases, chinking rocks may also be used to distribute loads
between larger facing rocks, further enhancing the stability of the
wall.
While chinking is a common practice in dry laid stone wall
construction, it’s crucial to ensure that the chinks are securely
placed and contribute to the overall stability of the wall. This will
help ensure the longevity and durability of the wall over time.
