Back to our roots The Stone Federation delves into the
hisotry of using stonework and masonry within building structures Natural Stone has a vast array of applica-
tions, each one requiring a different approach to achieve the desired result. It is this bespoke aspect of natural stone that allows the craft of stonemasonry to continue. No two pieces are ever the same, so you can be certain that your property is completely unique. What’s more, stone adds value to your property by providing a timeless elegance and a feeling of luxury that is instantly noticeable to any potential buyers. In an age of pre-cast, generic construction materials and finishes, expertly worked natural stone allows you to add beautifully unique touches to your home. From bespoke natural stone fireplaces through to personalised carv- ings on your porch, the choice really is yours. With handcrafted natural stone, you are not
YORK MINSTER
The crafts of stonework & masonry are some of the earliest trades in civilisations’ history and have always played a well-respected part within the natural stone industry. Some of our planet’s most impressive structures are stone monuments dating back many hundreds of years. It is the skilled work of expert craftsman, combined with a naturally durable material that means we can still enjoy these monuments today. In an age where machines now take the
place of humans in a multitude of functions, the art of a skilled stonemason is still holding its own. While the impressive technology of mod- ern day stone carving machinery allows for some breathtaking products on a grand scale, the art of a hand carved stone feature has not lost its place within the industry. Many of the basic tools used by stonework
and masonry professionals have endured the test of time, which means the tool belt of a 21st stonemason would not look greatly dissimilar to that of his counterpart many hundreds of years ago. For many homeowners this tradition and heritage gives them an invaluable peace of mind.
just investing in the skills of an expert craftsman, but also in the inherent durability of the material itself. Natural stone is a beautiful, durable natu- ral material, with impressive resistance to the ele- ments as well as the wear and tear of everyday life. You only need look around any of Great Britain’s major cities and you will see an array of century’s old natural stone buildings, monu- ments and carvings. As a Homeowner, this is ultimately the aim of any new build or renova- tion project, to combine practicality and dura- bility with aesthetic appeal. As the Federation for the natural Stone indus-
try, they are involved in various competitions and industry awards, one of which is the UK Masonry Skills Challenge. This years' competi- tion had over 30 young stonemasons from across the United Kingdom enter for their chance to be crowned the best young stonema- son. The standard of entries was as high as ever, proving that the crafts of stonework and masonry are as strong as ever. Stonework & Masonry also received recog-
nition in the 2012 Natural Stone Awards in the Craftsmanship category. Entries ranged from restoration work on parts of York Minster through to a natural stone mosaic at the entrance to Hereford Cathedral. As the Award judges commented, the
masonry work shown in the entries displayed the possibilities that natural stone affords for “highly visually pleasing end results with a prac- ticality fit for purpose.” Unlike some trades, stonework and masonry
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selfbuilder & homemaker
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