How to Build a Stone Bridge

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Dig two level places on either side of the stream for stone bridge footings.
Dig two level places on either side of the stream for stone bridge footings.
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Make sure the piers are leveled so no wedging is necessary, to make the stone bridge as stable as possible.
Make sure the piers are leveled so no wedging is necessary, to make the stone bridge as stable as possible.
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Lift the bridge stone into place with a boom or a ratchet hoist.
Lift the bridge stone into place with a boom or a ratchet hoist.
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You stone bridge will be higher than the path leading to it. Build the path up with tamped soil to level out the intersection, if you like.
You stone bridge will be higher than the path leading to it. Build the path up with tamped soil to level out the intersection, if you like.
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“Stone Primer,” by Charles McRaven is the essential guide for homeowners interested in diy stonework, from winding garden paths to fireplaces and stone retaining walls.
“Stone Primer,” by Charles McRaven is the essential guide for homeowners interested in diy stonework, from winding garden paths to fireplaces and stone retaining walls.

Stone Primer (Storey Publishing, 2007), by Charles McRaven, presents basic techniques of stonework and dozens of projects for inspiration and practical guidance. Designs for the home include structural masonry and accents like fireplaces and countertops, while landscaping uses include retaining walls, stone bridges, and even stone sheds and water features. The following project is from chapter 11, “Water Features and Footbridges.”

This bridge is a slab of stone laid across the stream, supported on stones at each end. These support stones are embedded in the bank to form a level base for the slab. Necessarily, the slab must be thick and heavy to carry foot traffic. This means you’ll need some help or equipment to place this stone.

1. Dig two level places 36 inches long and 6 inches below grade on each side of the stream, parallel within 24 inches of each other.

2. Lay 6 inch stones on these leveled “steps” along the stream. These form the foundation for the main stone slab and should be leveled so that no wedging is necessary.

3. Lay one big stone across and pry it into place with the bar. You will probably need a boom or tractor bucket for this job. Lacking this, you can set up a tripod of 2×6 framing lumber with a ratchet hoist to handle the big stone. The stone can be moved to the location on wooden rollers, if necessary, but should be lifted into place.

  • Published on Sep 16, 2015
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