Glossary of Terms

Abrasion resistance refers to the ability of a material or surface to withstand wear, erosion, or damage caused by repeated rubbing, scraping, or frictional forces. It is a crucial property in various industrial, engineering, and consumer applications where the material is subject to continuous contact with abrasive substances or surfaces over time. The degree of abrasion resistance is determined by the material's inherent hardness, toughness, and resistance to wear and tear. Explanation: Materials or products that exhibit high abrasion resistance can endure prolonged use without significant degradation or loss of performance, ensuring their longevity and reliability in challenging environments. This property is particularly relevant in applications such as manufacturing machinery components, construction materials, protective coatings, automotive parts, and consumer products like footwear and textiles. Abrasion resistance is typically evaluated through standardized tests that simulate abrasive conditions, providing a quantitative measurement of the material's durability and wear resistance. In summary, abrasion resistance is a critical characteristic of materials that encounter abrasive forces, offering enhanced performance, longevity, and cost-effectiveness in various industrial and everyday scenarios.

A flat and non-reflective finish. An abrasive finish refers to a type of surface treatment applied to floors and various other surfaces to create a rugged and textured appearance. It involves the use of abrasive materials, such as sandpaper or abrasive pads, to mechanically abrade the surface, removing a thin layer of the material and exposing the underlying texture. The process results in a rougher surface, enhancing slip resistance and providing an appealing tactile feel. Abrasive finishes are commonly used in applications where slip resistance is crucial, such as high-traffic areas, outdoor spaces, and industrial environments. They are particularly advantageous in locations prone to wet or hazardous conditions, as they can help minimize the risk of slips and falls. The level of coarseness in the abrasive finish can be varied, offering different degrees of texture to suit specific requirements and preferences. Additionally, abrasive finishes can be applied to a wide range of materials, including concrete, stone, wood, and certain types of tiles, making them a versatile choice for floor and surface treatments. Proper maintenance and periodic reapplication may be necessary to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the abrasive finish.

Refers to the wearing qualities of stone for floors, stair treads and similar uses subjected to abrasion by foot traffic.

Percentage of moisture absorption by weight. The process by which a liquid is taken into (soaked up by) another substance and held there

The supporting wall or pier that receives the thrust of an arch; a solid stone springer at the lowest point of an arch, vault or beam

A material used to speed the setting of mortar, epoxy, and polyester resins

A treatment applied to the face of a stone to achieve a texture or finish that is distressed. Chemical treatments are more effective when applied to calcareous stones than to siliceous stone types. Recently, the use of acid and other types of chemical treatments has lessened due to environmental and disposal concerns. Chemical processes have been replaced by mechanical methods for the texturing of the stone face

Clear water-based repellents which form a film. The acrylic resins come from the polymerization of derivatives of acrylic acids, including esters of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylonitrite, and their copolymers. Acrylics resins vary from hard brittle solids, to fibrous elastomeric structures to viscous liquids, depending on the monomer used and the method of polymerization

Resins resulting from the polymerization of derivatives of acrylic acids including esters of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylonitrite, and their copolymers. They can be carried in a water or solvent solution and they are film-forming materials

Ingredients of a coating composition which are deposited following co-reaction or reaction with the substrate. Active solids are usually measured as a weight percent of the total

Stone veneer secured and supported by adhesion of an approved bonding material over an approved backing

A volcanic quartz-based stone containing a variety of colored aggregates and pumice in a quartz matrix. Quarried in Mexico and available in several colors

A variegated variety or quartz allowing colored bands or other markings (clouded, moss-like, etc.)

A man-made product fabricated to look like quarried stone. Usually composed of stone chips or fragments embedded in a matrix of mortar or thermosetting resins.

Materials that are added to mortar or grout at time of mixing to impart special properties to the mortar or grout; quantities of loose fragments of rock or mineral

A fine grained, translucent variety of gypsum, generally white in color. May be cut and carved easily with a knife or saw. The term is often incorrectly applied to fine-grained marble

Any project involving change of, or addition to, an existing building

Aluminum oxide

Complex salt or soap of aluminum and stearic acid. Used as a flattering and antisettling agent for pigments in paint and varnish, water repellents and cement additives

Temperature of the surrounding environment

A hydrate which has given up all its previously held water molecules

An usually dark-colored igneous rock consisting mostly or entirely of calcic plagioclase

A finish that replicates rusticated or distressed textures. Produced through mechanical or chemical means to simulate the naturally occurring effects of the aging process

Top stone of gable, spire, or pediment

A trim piece under a projecting stone top

A translucent white mineral found in calcium carbonate; a mineral with the same chemical formula of calcite, but the shape of the calcium carbonate crystals are different (orthorhombic). It can be found as a minority component of certain limestones and marbles. Most common form of Aragonite is Nacre (Mother of Pearl) and Mexican Marble-Onyx

A translucent, white mineral found in calcium carbonate; a mineral with the same chemical formula of calcite, but the shape of the calcium carbonate crystals are different (orthorhombic). Aragonite can be found as a minority component of certain limestones and marbles. The most common forms of Aragonite are Nacre (Mother of Pearl) and Mexican Marble-Onyx.

Stone masonry in compression, using arch and vault

A compact metamorphic rock composed mainly of clay or shale, and aluminum silicate minerals. Similar to slate in appearance and splitting properties, but usually much harder

Hydrocarbon solvents comprised of organic compounds which contain an unsaturated ring of carbon atoms, including benzene, naphthalene and their derivatives

The angle, corner, or edge produced by the meeting of two surfaces; the edge of external angle. A natural or applied line on the stone from which all the leveling and plumbing is measured.ARTIFICIAL MARBLE A man-made product that may look like natural quarried marble, sometimes composed of thermosetting resins as a matrix and fillers

A man-made product that may look like natural quarried marble, sometimes composed of fillers and thermosetting resins as a matrix.

A substitute for dimension stone made by casting selected aggregates and cement in molds

A concealed arch carrying the back lug of a wall where the exterior facing is carried by a lintel

Rough masonry built behind a facing or between two faces. Or, filling over the extrados of an arch; brickwork in spaces between structural timbers, sometimes called brick nogging

The part of a veneer wall behind the exterior facing which is designed to resist load

A flexible and compressible type of closed cell-foam polyethylene, butyl rubber, or open cell and closed cell polyurethane, rounded at surface to contact sealant. It is installed at the bottom or rear of joint and often described as a filler strip

A bench of timber or stone (may be a single block) on which stone is worked

A dense textured (aphanitic) igneous rock relatively high in iron and magnesia minerals and relatively low in silica, generally dark gray to black, and feldspathic. A general term in contradistinction to felsite, a light colored feldspathic and highly siliceous rock or similar texture and origin. The colors of basalts are very dark green to black and often sold as granites, but unlike granites, basalt contains little or no quartz or feldspars

The squared block terminating a baseboard at the opening

The lowest course or footing of a wall or pier

Stone surface finish produced with parallel tool marks

In granites and marbles a layer or sheet of the rock mass that is horizontal, commonly curved and lenticular as developed by fractures. Sometimes applied also to the surface of parting between the sheets. Or, in stratified rocks the unit layer formed by sedimentation; of variable thickness and commonly tilted or distorted by subsequent deformation; generally develops a rock cleavage, parting or jointing along the planes of stratification

A horizontal joint between stones, usually filled with mortar, lead, or sealant

Horizontal plane of sedimentary stone in the position of its original formation. In the context of stone restoration, especially with materials like limestone, a bedding plane refers to the natural, flat layers within the stone. These planes were formed when the limestone was created over millions of years as layers of sediment settled and compacted. Understanding bedding planes is important for contractors because they can impact the durability and performance of the stone. For instance, limestone may be more prone to splitting or flaking along these planes, especially if the stone was installed with the bedding plane facing the wrong direction. This can affect how you approach restoration, as improper handling or aggressive techniques might cause damage along these natural layers.

A continuous horizontal course of flat stones place in line marking a division in the wall plane. Sometimes called band course, string course, or sill course

Steps formed in quarry by removal of stone following bed joints. Or, a long seat of cubic stone

A bank of earth, such as the piled-up earth against a stone wall

A black, brown, or dark-green mica, a magnesium iron silicate

Dark colored igneous rocks defined by geologists as basalt, diabase, gabbro, diorite, and anorthosite, quarried as building stone, building facings, and specialty purposes and identified as Black Granite when sold

Staining caused by corrosive metals, oil-based putties, mastics, caulking, or sealing compounds

Mixes of different generic raw materials to form a water repellent

Regional sandstone quarried in the Catskill area of New York State and Western Pennsylvania

Clastic sedimentary stone made by fragment angular rocks bonded together. It is divided in polygenetic breccia (when it is made by fragments of rocks with different mineralogy) or monogenetic breccia (when it is made by fragments of rocks of the same mineralogy). The matrix and bonding are generally clay, calcite and silica

Calcium-bearing rock

A common crystalline form of natural calcium carbonate, CaCO3, it is the main mineral composing most limestones and geological marbles. Also called calcspar

A limestone containing not more than 5% of magnesium carbonate

A crystalline variety of limestone containing not more than 5% of magnesium carbonate

Descriptions of a white or milky-like streak occurring in stone. It is a joint plane usually wider than a glass seam and has been re-cemented by deposition of calcite in the crack and is structurally sound

Calcined limestone

A slight rising from the horizontal, to gain an actual or apparent effect of arching

A volcanic, quartz-based stone with qualities similar to adoquin, but not as dense. Quarried in Mexico

The crowning stone of a structure; differing from capital in that it is not a supporting member

The ability of masonry to store heat as a result of its mass, density and specific heat

The movement of a liquid in the interstices of a porous material, as a result of surface tension; the phenomenon responsible for dry materials sucking moisture above the normal water level

The crowning stone of a column, differing from Cap Stone in that it is a supporting member.

A salt of carbonic acid

A weak acid

A precast concrete building stone manufactured to simulate dimension stone

A substance which accelerates a chemical reaction but appears to remain unchanged itself (i.e. a hardener that accelerates the cure of synthetic resin adhesive)

Non-staining, non-hardening putty-like mastic, usually applied to stone joints with a pressure gun

A hydraulic mixture, without aggregate, consisting of a calcined mixture of clay and pulverized limestone

To bevel the junction of an exterior angle. Or, to cut away the edge where two surfaces meet in an external angle, leaving a bevel at the junction

Description of a textured stone finish, obtained by using chat sand in the gang sawing process

A small, irregularly shaped stone piece dislodged, usually from the edge, from a stone piece

A stone face worked to convex spherical shape

A stone face worked to concave spherical shape

An exterior veneer stone covering

Stone fragments that are derived from pre-existing rocks or miner

A natural mineral aggregate consisting essentially of hydrous aluminum silicate. It is plastic when sufficiently wetted, stiff when dried, and vitrified when fired to a sufficiently high temperature

A soft, low lime mortar usually used when lime was expensive and difficult to procure. Its primary usage was in remote areas for small scale buildings

The visible end of a stone laid as a bond stone

Openings at the bottom of a grout space for cleaning mortar droppings and other debris prior to grout placement

An invisible to glossy film or penetrate applied to substrates to protect, repel or resist water and hydration of minerals

Space allowed to facilitate erection of units and provide for thermal and other estimated movements in structure

The ability of a rock mass to break along natural surfaces; a surface of natural parting. Also used to refer to the plane or planes along which a stone may likely break or delaminate

Membrane that provides a separation and slip sheet between the mortar setting bed and the backing or base surface

Plane or planes along which a stone may likely break or delaminate

Rough-surfaced stones such as slates that are cleaved or separated along a natural seam are referred to as natural cleft. These types of stones were formed as a result of metamorphic foliation

A protective or decorative covering applied to the surface or impregnated into stone for such purposes as waterproofing, enhancing resistance to weathering, wear, and chemical action, or altering the app earance of the stone

A dimension stone large enough for use in paving. A term commonly used to describe paving blocks, usually granite, and generally cut to rectangular shapes

A crystalline rock composed predominately of one or more of the following minerals: calcite, dolomite, or serpentine, and capable of taking a polish

Rocks that are traded as marble but are not metamorphic rocks. (They preserve their sedimentary nature.)

A construction unit in which stone that is to be exposed in the final use is permanently bonded or joined to concealed material

Dampness of interior surfaces caused by the release of water as it cools below the dew point; the formation of frost or water when air carrying water vapor comes in contact with a cold surface, cooling the air and reducing its ability to hold moisture

A stone similar to sandstone but the rock particles are rounded or angular gravel rather than sand; an aggregate of rounded and water-worn pebbles and boulders cemented together into a coherent stone

Treatment of the stone surface with a liquid solution which is commonly brush or spray applied. Various stone consolidation processes can extend the life of stone and retard the decay process, but they cannot permanently arrest deterioration

A crust forming across the surface of sandstones and limestones which follows the contour of the surface rather than the bedding planes of the stones. The result of direct pollution. The pores of the stone are blocked by formations of recrystallized calcium sulfates

A joint that allows for dimensional changes of different parts of a structure due to shrinkage, expansion, variations in temperature, or other causes. Its purpose is to prevent development of high stresses in the structure

The horizontal top stone of a wall or similar stone construction, usually flat

A cap or covering course on top of masonry wall. Designed to shed water, protect the top and provide a finished, closed appearance to the wall. Commonly extended beyond the wall face and incorporating a drip.SEC: Single edge coping.DEC: Double edge coping

Limestone composed predominately of shells or fragments of shells loosely cemented by calcite. Coquina is course-textured and has a high porosity. The term is applied principally to a very porous rock quarried in Florida

A limestone consisting of the calcareous skeletons of corals, often containing fragments of other organisms and usually cemented by calcium carbonate

A stone forming a part of a corner or angle in a wall. Also a stone laid at the formal inauguration of the erection of a building

A molded projecting stone at the top of an entablature or facade

items which have been treated or coated to retard harmful oxidation or other corrosive action

A continuous horizontal band of stone of constant height

This is achieved by using stones of the same or approximately the same heights. Horizontal joints run on the entire length of the veneered area. Vertical joints are constantly broken so that no two joints will be over one another

French for the stone at the top of a pier supporting the lowest stone of an arch

A concave stone mold

A concave joint shaped with a tool

A break, split, fracture, fissure, separation, cleavage, or elongated narrow opening, however caused, visible without magnification to the human eye and extending from the surface into the stone, through the gra in, matrix, or vein

A U shaped metal anchor for holding two adjacent units of stone together

A multi-pointed hammer for dressing the face of stone

Depression in a coating film usually caused by air or solvent trapped in the coating, forming bubbles which break after the film has set sufficiently to prevent leveling

(Croissette, Crosset) A side lug at the upper side of an arch stone, entering a corresponding space on the adjoining stone

To dress the face of a stone by picking with a pointed tool

Fine-grained extrusive (volcanic) rock, intermediate in color and composition between basalt and rhyolite

Stone treatment on interior walls which does not extend to the ceiling often ornamented

A course or layer of impervious material which prevents vertical penetration of water by capillary action

Prevention of moisture penetration due to capillary action by the addition of one or more coatings of a compound that is impervious to water

A horizontal or vertical course or layer, usually at least six inches above the ground level, that prevents the capillary entrance of moisture from the ground or a lower course

The amount by which a horizontal member bends at the center under stress

A failure in a laminating assembly characterized by the separation or loss of adhesion between plies, such as in built-up roofing or glue-laminated timber

The optical phenomenon of relative depth perceived when viewing reflective surfaces

To bring into being a mental concept

A granular igneous rock, dark gray to black, sometimes called dolerite

A covering layer of interior stone from wall to ceiling

Stone that has been cut into geometric forms for ornamental or structural purposes. Natural building stone that has been selected, trimmed, or cut to specified shapes and sizes. Final surface treatment or finish is as specified

Granular, crystallized igneous stone composed of feldspar and hornblende

Calcium Magnesium Carbonate [CaMg(CO3)2] A calcium magnesium carbonate; a crystalline variety of limestone, containing in excess of 40 percent of magnesium carbonate as the dolomite molecule. Main mineral composing dolomitic limestones and marbles. Dolomite rocks are also referred to as dolostone

A crystalline variety of limestone, containing in excess of 49% of magnesium carbonate as the dolomite molecule

A limestone rich in magnesium carbonate, frequently somewhat crystalline in character. It is found in ledge formations in a wide variety of color tones and textures. Generally speaking, its crushing andmestone

A dolomitic limestone

splayed tenon that is shaped like a dove’s tail, broader at its end than at its base, which fits into the recess of a corresponding mortise

A molding in which interlocked triangles are used

The cutting of rough chunks of stone by hand to create a square or rectangular shape. A stone which is sold as dressed stone generally refers to stone ready for installation

The shaping and squaring, sometimes called scabbling, of blocks for storage and shipment

A recess cut into the underside of projecting stone to divert water and prevent it from running down the face of a wall or other surface of which it is a part

A molding shaped for drip

A mason’s blunt chisel for facing stone

A type of mud bed with a lesser concentration of Portland cement, which is popular for certain stone floor installations (eg in the case of “grind-in-place” installations of marble and granite floors.)

Unhealed fracture which may be a plane of weakness

Dry wall is a stone that is constructed one stone upon the other without the use of any mortar. Generally used for retaining walls

The measure of the ability of dimension stone to endure and to maintain its essential and distinctive characteristics of strength, resistance to decay and moisture, and appearance

A small, matching piece of dimension stone that is cut, finished and attached with the tightest possible joint to a floor, wall, top, or other larger piece of stone to increase its length or width or to repair or replace a missing or damaged area. Dutchmen are usually affixed in the fabrication shop with epoxy or polyester resin

A deposit or encrustation of soluble salts generally white, usually carbonates or sulfates, that may form on the surface of stone, brick, concrete or mortar when moisture moves through and evaporates from the masonry

Dull polish or matt surface

Fine, bush-hammered; interrupted parallel markings not over 3/32 in. apart; a corrugated finish; smoother near arris lines and on small surfaces

Mixture of solid particles of binder and the liquid carrier in which they are suspended but insoluble

Marble deriving decoration from fossils or shells

The process of adding color to incised lettering in stone

A manmade product composed of a blend of natural minerals and manmade agents (such as polyester, glass, epoxy, and other such ingredients). This product can give the appearance of a “stone like” surface, but it does not possess the characteristics of a natural stone. It’s range of use is limited

A horizontal, projecting group of stones immediately above a column capital. Consists of three major parts: architrave, cornice, and frieze

The curve resulting from the gradual diminishing in the diameter of the upper two-thirds of a column

A class of synthetic, thermosetting resins which produce tough, hard, chemical resistant coating and excellent adhesives

A flexible, usually thermal setting resin made by polymerization of an epoxide and used as an adhesive. They are characterized by toughness, good adhesion, corrosion, chemical resistance, and good dielectric properties. Most epoxy resins are the two-part type, which harden when blended. It is used as surface coatings, adhesives for composites and for metals, floor surfacing and wall panels, cements and mortars

The process of and setting vertical dimensional stone in place

Occurs when stone is eaten (or neutralized) by an acid. It often looks like and is mistaken for a watermark.

Peeling, swelling or scaling of stone or mineral surfaces in thin layers, caused by chemical or physical weather or by heat

Enlargement of length and bulk by reason of temperature rise or absorption of water

Phrase applied to the larger pieces of stone aggregate purposefully exposed for their color and texture in a cast slab. Can be done by casting on a slab or by application to an existing wall over epoxy or cement coat

The work involved in transforming building stone from quarry blocks to cut or finished stone. This includes primary sawing into slabs. It may also include both hand and mechanical techniques such as sawing, drilling, grinding, honing, polishing, and carving

Refers to the exposed surface of stone on the structure. Or, a horizontal belt of vertical face, often used in combination with moldings

A set of temperature and pressure conditions under which a group of metamorphic rocks is formed from pre-existing rocks (of any possible type)

The factor by which the expected weight or stress is multiplied to indicate the surplus of strength or resistance provided for safety sake

Installation of a floor or wall executed with factory-finished stone tiles or factory-finished cuts of slabs. Antonym: grind-in-place installation

A groove routed in a solid piece of stone to simulate a joint

A horizontal band of vertical face, often used in combinations with moldings

Mortar containing a high percentage of cement components. It is a sticky mortar that adheres to a trowel

A dislocation of stone strata which may interfere with natural underground drainage, or a break in the layers or bedding plane

A sharp arris formed by beveling or cutting a piece of stone

Any group of crystalline minerals, all silicates of aluminum with either, potassium, sodium, calcium or barium. An essential constituent of nearly all crystalline rocks

Limestone or quartz-based stone (sandstone) containing a high proportion of iron oxide

Loose blocks separated from ledges by natural processes and scattered through or upon the ground cover; applied also to similar transported materials, such as glacial boulders and cobblestones

A weathered stone found on top of the ground

Refers to a resilient material placed in the rear portion of a joint to function as a sealant stop

Rebate, often used as a decorative feature with moldings

A trade expression used in the fabrication of marble to indicate the filling of natural voids with color-blended cements, shellac or synthetic resins and similar materials

The powder, dual, silt-size, and sand-size material resulting from processing (usually crush tog) rock

Final surface applied to the face of dimensional stone during fabrication

An opening on a hearth, served by a chimney flue, where an open fire may be laid

Any material or combination protecting structural members and increasing their fire resistance

A term used in Europe to describe the installation of stone work

Thin slabs of stone used for flagging or paving walks, driveways, patios, etc. It is generally a fine-grained sandstone, bluestone, quartzite, or slate, but thin slabs of other stones may be used

A very rugged surface finish of certain stones (mostly mercantile granites) produced by popping the crystals on the surface of the slab or tile with a potent blow-torch. See Thermal Finish

Manufacturing process to produce specific color tones in clay units by creating a reducing atmosphere in the kiln. Or, a thin impervious material placed in mortar joints and through air spaces in masonry to prevent water penetration and provide water drainage. Also, metal or other protective material used to cover joints, tops of walls, parapet walls, or angles, as of a roof

The mottled effect obtained when certain marble varieties are sawn parallel to their natural bedding plane

Unique to the marble industry, it is cut parallel to the natural bedding plane

Flexural strength is the measurement (in units of stress, such as MPa or psi) of how much a material can bend before it becomes deformed or breaks. Engineered stone has more flexural strength than natural stone.

Dense, fine-grained, naturally occurring form of silica that fractures conchoidally

A mason’s tool, a flat board with handle on one side, used for spreading and smoothing plaster or cement

The final mortar coat applied with a float over which the neat coat is applied

Stone used as an interior pedestrian walking surface

Stone having a regular series of concave grooves

Shallow, concave, parallel grooves running vertically on the shaft of a column, pilaster, or other surface

Coarse bush-hammered finish with same characteristics as 6-cut, but with markings not more than 7/32 in. apart

Rough stones less than 750 pounds

A subordinate space between an entrance and the main interior to which it leads

A stone that may be cut freely in any direction without fracture or splitting

Flat member of the entablature occurring above the architrave and below the cornice

A depression in the bed surface of a brick, sometimes called a panel

The more important face of a building, or that containing its main entrance

Mortar applied to the entire thickness of a masonry unit

The method of finishing the interior face of masonry wall to provide space for insulation, to prevent moisture transmittance, or to provide a smooth or plane surface for finishing

An igneous granular stone composed chiefly of pyroxene, augite or diallage, and plagioclase

The exterior triangular section of a wall extending upward from the level of the eaves to the apex. Also, a member resembling the triangular end of a roof

A stone chip or spall

A machine with multiple blades used to saw rough quarry block into slabs. Also known as a frame saw

Description of the granular surface of stone resulting from gang sawing alone

A usually single diamond blade saw with a mobile rail and blade that can be repositioned along its tracks between cuts

The insertion of small splinters of stone in the mortar joints before the mortar has firmly set

(Gauging) A grinding process to make all pieces of material to be used together the same thickness

Description of a narrow glass-like streak occurring in stone. It is a joint plane that has been re-cemented by deposition of translucent crystalline calcite in the crack and is usually structurally sound

Luster or shininess, measured as light reflectance

A metamorphic rock with a banded or coarsely foliated structure, often called ’Trade Granite’. Composed essentially of silicate minerals with interlocking and visibly granular texture in which the foliation is due primarily to alternating layers, regular or irregular, of contrasting mineralogical composition

Beginning course at the grade level, generally waterproofed with a damp check or damp course

The easiest cleavage direction in a stone. Also the particles (crystals, sand grain, etc.) in a stone

A very hard, crystalline, igneous rock, gray to pink in color, composed of feldspar, quartz, and lesser amounts of dark Ferro magnesium materials. Black ’granites’ are similar to true ’granites’ in structure and texture, but are composed of different minerals

Stones having a texture characterized by particles that are apparent to the unaided eye. For sedimentary rocks: particles less than 4 inches in diameter and approximately equal in size

Composed chiefly of quartz, but may contain granite, limestone, basalt, and other rocks

Mortar that has set but not dried

Includes stones that have been metamorphosed or otherwise altered that they have assumed a distinctive greenish color owing to the presence of one or more of the following minerals: chlorite, epidote, or actinolite

A grainy conglomerate stone composed of firmly cemented fragments of quartz

Method of installation of stone floors by which all components (tiles or cuts of stone) are set on “mud” and then ground and finished in the premises

Crushed brick that is blended with clay to form new brick

A mixture of cement material and aggregate to which sufficient water is added to produce pouring consistency without segregation of the constituents

Masonry construction made with hollow units in which all or specific cores are filled with grout

The height to which grout is placed in a cell, collar joint or cavity without stopping; an increment of the total grout pour

The total height of a masonry wall to be grouted prior to the placement of additional masonry. A grout pour may consist of one or more grout lifts

Masonry construction made with solid masonry in which the interior joints and voids are filled with grout

A recommended specification for the furnishing and installation of building stone

A hydrated calcium sulfate. It is formed naturally as the result of the reaction of sulfuric acid produced by decomposition of pyrite upon the calcium carbonate of shells existing in clay; a sedimentary rock

Random pattern of superficial cracking in an exposed concrete surface. Usually surface openings of 20 mils or less

A convex semicircular molding used on exposed edges or stone units such as countertops, stair treads, and window stools

An exposed edge or molding with a semi-circular section or radii

Rock salt; sodium chloride; a sedimentary rock

A pattern where all the stone is hand cut into squares and rectangles; joints are fairly consistent. Similar to sawed-bed ashlar in appearance

Nearly vitrified clay products that have been fired at high temperatures

See Mohs Scale

The end of a stone which has been tooled to match the face of the stone. Heads are used at outside corners, windows, door jams, or any place where the veneering will be visible from the side

The vertical mortar joint between ends of masonry units. Also called a cross-joint or a vertical joint

A masonry unit that overlaps two or more adjacent wythes of masonry to tie them together. Also called a bonder

A principle stone, as in keystone or cornerstone

That part of the floor of a room made of stone on which the fire is made or above is a stove, fireplace, furnace, etc.

A hydrate which contains one-half of a molecule of water compared to one molecule of the principal element or compound forming the hydrate

A pattern of setting in which the units are laid aslant, with the direction of incline reversing in alternate courses, forming a zigzag effect

To rough form by mallet and chisel

A bonding agent of high ultimate strength used to join individual pieces of stone into pre-assembled units

A satin-smooth surface finish with little or no light reflection. Generally, a honed finish is preferred for floors or where traffic may wear off a high polish finish. It is also used on furniture tops and other surfaces. For the stones that cannot be polished, it is the only smooth finish possible

A very fine, satin smooth finish on stone. This is the last step before polishing. A super fine smooth finish with little or no gloss. Recommended for commercial floors

A group of minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, and aluminum silicates. May be present in igneous stones

A mineral formed by the combination of water and some other elements or compounds

Quicklime to which sufficient water has been added to convert the oxides to hydroxides

To harden under (or with) water

Substance which absorbs or has exhibited affinity for water

Having no affinity for or is repellent to water. The quality of beading water on a substrate

One of three principle groups of rock that make up the earth’s surface. Formed by the solidification of molten matter

One who acts as an independent sales representative in the United States, its territories and Canada for foreign suppliers

One who purchases, stocks, and distributes foreign materials in the United States, its territories and Canada, in substantial quantities and reliable quality

Applying a chemical containing stain inhibitors that penetrates below the surface of the stone

Impregnating sealer; a chemical product made of two parts: a resin (solid) and a carrier (water or mineral solvent) to penetrate the surface of a stone to reduce the natural absorbency rate of the stones it is applied to, providing that the stone’s surface tension allows the product to be absorbed by it

To cut inwardly or engrave, as in an inscription

Omission of some stones to allow for future bonding-in work

Surface decoration achieved by the insertion of lines or patterns of contrasting material

The space between installed units or between dimensional stones and the adjoining material

Steel reinforcement placed in or on mortar bed joints

The finishing of joints between courses of masonry units before the mortar has hardened

Architectural drawing detailing dimensions, location and configuration of stone units and joints related to the structure

In ashlar patterns, a piece of stone of higher rise than adjacent stones which is used to end a horizontal mortar joint at the point where it is set

A hydrous aluminum silicate mineral

A slot into the edge of stone with saw blade for insertion of anchors

In deepening a quarry, or starting to quarry downward from a horizontal surface, the first block removed from a new ledge, providing space and access for further block removal by undercutting, under drilling, or lateral shifting

The last wedge-shaped stone placed in the crown of an arch regarded as binding the whole

A furnace, oven, or heated enclosure used for burning or firing brick or clay material

Brick from one kiln that have not yet been sorted or graded for size or color variation

A brick cut diagonally to have one two-inch end and one full width end

Gabled cope stone which by its shape is also part of the wall, and may support other cope stones

The gluing of two pieces of stone together to produce an edge that can be shaped to create an aesthetic appearance for countertops

To overlap one surface with another

Method whereby walls or columns are braced in the vertical span by beams, floors or roofs, or walls in the horizontal span by columns, pilasters, buttresses or cross walls

Rubber or resins in water which coalesce to form a continuous film that imparts specific properties to Portland cement products

A general term applied to igneous rocks such as basalt and rhyolite that erupted from the earth by volcanic action

Mortar that is deficient in cement components. It is usually harsh and difficult to spread

Vertical dimension stone used on sides of a fireplace opening

A tapered head device wedged into a tapered recess in the edge of a dimensional stone unit, used for lifting purposes and hanging soffits

Holes in cut stones for lifting and supporting during setting of cut stones and sometimes for permanent support. Holes are checked for the particular Lewis (lifting device or hook) to be used

Carbon hydroxide or slaked lime that has been reduced to dry powder

Hydrated lime on plastic form ready for addition to mortar

Containing compounds which cause a chemical set in reaction with water

Sedimentary rock originated mostly by the decomposition of marine organism composed primarily of calcite or dolomite. The varieties of limestone used as dimension stone are usually well consolidated and exhibit a minimum of graining or bedding direction

A metal pin used to attach line used for alignment of masonry units

Structurally sound sections of stone that are cemented and dowelled to the back of stone wall units, to give greater strength, additional bearing surface, assist in support, or to increase joint depth

A beam placed or constructed over an opening in a wall to carry the superimposed load

A condition where one edge of a stone tile is higher than adjacent edges, making the overall surface not truly flat but rather giving it a ragged appearance. Acceptable lippage for stone tiles is not more than 1/32 of an inch - about the thickness of a credit card.

Usually refers to flagging materials. Lipping is caused when two pieces of material to be joined together are slightly warped or twisted causing one or more edges to be higher or lower than the adjoining material

A structural system or element designed to carry loads in addition to its own dead load

A small projecting member of a larger stone piece, to engage an adjoining unit or to serve as an aid in handling

Stone sill set into the jambs on each side of masonry opening

The generally recognized standard machine finish produced by the planers

Literally, badland; refers to dark-colored rock, commonly lava, in rough terrain

The structural member spanning the opening of a fireplace. Also, a shelf (usually cubic stone) which is part of the finish and above the fireplace opening

Dimensional stone fabricated, ready for installation

One who fabricates dimensional stone

A metamorphic crystalline rock composed predominantly of crystalline grains of calcite, dolomite, or serpentine, and capable of taking a polish

Rock altered in appearance, density, crystalline structure, and in some cases, mineral composition, by high temperature or intense pressure, or both. Includes slate derived from shale, quartz-based stone from quartzitic sand, and true marble from limestone

A special type of fabric or fabrics treated in a way by which the single filaments must be less than 1 “Denier”. (’Denier’ is the term used to define the diameter or fineness of a continuous or filament fiber.) For instance, fine silk is 1.25 denier. Microfiber fabrics are usually between 0.5 and 0.6 denier

In 1812 the Mohs scale of mineral hardness was devised by the German mineralogist Frederich Mohs (1773-1839), who selected the ten minerals because they were common or readily available. The scale is not a linear scale, but somewhat arbitrary. An item with a higher Mohs value can scratch an item with a lower Mohs value. A lower rated item cannot scratch a higher rated one: 1. Talc; 2. Gypsum; 3. Calcite (Most Marbles); 4. Fluorite; 5. Apatite; 6. Feldspar (Granite); 7. Quartz (Granite); 8. Topaz; 9. Corundum; 10. Diamond. Countertops with a 7+ are considered excellent, a 6 good, a 5 poor (because knives can scratch) and a 4 or below unadvisable. When sediment and grit are harder than the surface, they will scratch and harm the stone.

A mix of sand and Portland cement that gets set over the sub floor with a thickness of approximately 1” and on which stone tiles will then be set. It is meant to absorb the possible settlement movement of the building, so that the stone tiles will not crack.

The setting of the stone on the same plane as it was formed in the ground. This generally applies to all stratified materials

Lime with high clay content

This generally pertains to stones which are formed in layers in the ground. When such stones are elevated or separated along a natural seam, the remaining surface is referred to a natural cleft surface. Non-manmade finish of stone with foliation, such as slate, certain sandstones and schistose rocks. The finish is obtained by de-lamination of the layers of the stone along its foliation

Although technically a redundancy, as stone is naturally occuring by definition, the term is used to distinguish true stone from imitation materials.

A pure cement uncut by a sand admixture. Obtained by planning the stone with a planer tool in which irregular nicks have been made in the cutting edgeObtained by planning the stone with a planer tool in which irregular nicks have been made in the cutting edge

When a factory-finished tile (or whatever different cut of stone) is installed lower in relation of at least three other surrounding tiles

A dimension greater than a specified masonry dimension by the thickness of a mortar joint

Any material that will neither ignite nor actively support combustion in air at a temperature of 1.200’F when exposed to fire

Resistant to harmful oxidation or other corrosive actions because of its composition (i.e. stainless steel, bronze, copper)

Not containing iron material

A mortar with a low free-alkali content to avoid efflorescent or staining by adjacent stones migration of soluble materials

The rounded front edges of a stair tread

A glassy phase of lava, usually black

A remnant, or extra piece, from a partially cut slab. Off falls are often used for samples or additional projects

A course or unit that is set in from the course directly under it, the opposite of a projection

A stone molding with a reverse curved edge, concave above, convex below

Rough stone under 150 pounds

A variety of quartz in crystalline form of calcium carbonate. It is characterized by a structure of parallel brands each differing in color or in the degree of translucency

A crystalline from, commonly microcrystalline, of calcium carbonate deposited usually from cold water solutions. It is generally translucent and shows characteristic layering. Commercially, onyx is considered a marble because it can be polished

Rock consisting mainly of calcite, made up of largely oolites or granular particles (generally tiny fossils or fossil fragments) that have calcium coatings. A calcite-cemented calcareous stone formed of shells and shell fragments, practically non-crystalline in character it is found in massive deposits located almost entirely in Lawrence, Monroe, and Owen counties in Indiana, also in Alabama, Kansas, and Texas. This limestone is characteristically a freestone, without cleavage planes, possessing a remarkable uniformity of composition, texture and structure. It also possesses a high internal elasticity, adapting itself without damage to extreme temperature changes

The introduction into a rock of siliceous material in the form of opal, a hydrous silicate

Sedimentary rock mostly made of serpentine, gabbro, often with red alteration from formation of hematite. Binding agents can be calcite, dolomite, magnesite

Designation of any chemical compound containing carbon (some of the simple compounds of carbon, such as carbon dioxide, are frequently classified as inorganic compounds). To date, nearly one million organic compounds have been synthesized or isolated. Many occur in nature; others are produced by chemical synthesis

Rock protruding above or at ground level

Generally refers to veneer stone. To be out of wind is to have the arris of the stone not in parallel or perpendicular lines; stone which is out of wind has an irregular or rustic appearance

Waste stone, earth or other quarry material covering useful stone

A system of stacking stone on wooden pallets for shipment or storage. Stone which comes palletized is easily moved and transported by modern handling equipment. Palletized stone generally arrives at the site in better condition then non-palletized material

A single unit of fabricated stone veneer

Damp proofing by applying a coat of mortar to the back of the stone units or to the face of the back-up material

Inlay of stone floors in geometrical or other patterns consisting of two or more colors or materials

Repair compound used to fill natural voids or to replace chips and broken corners or edges in fabricated pieces of dimension stone. Mixed or selected to match the stone in color and texture

The color and texture added to a surface by time and various allies

A single unit of fabricated stone for use as an exterior paving material

A stone supporting structure or piece for a bust, column, statue, or vase

The property of a substance which permits passage of water vapor; moisture vapor transmission

A stone extending through the thickness of a wall and finished on both ends

Slabs of stone set on other stones serving as stops and arches in gardens

Primitive stone carving

In igneous rocks, the relatively large and conspicuous crystals in a finer-grain matrix or ground mass. A number denoting the degree of acidity or alkalinity; 7 is a neutral value. Acidity increases with decreasing values below 7, while alkalinity increases with increasing values above 7

A class of acid organic compounds used in the manufacture of epoxy resins, phenol formaldehyde resins, plasticizers, plastics and wood preservatives

Stone dressed using mason’s point

Solid stone support, smaller than and distinct from a column

Engaged pier of shallow depth. In classical architecture it follows the height and width of related columns with similar base sod cap. In classical architecture, it follows the height and width of related columns, with similar base and cap

In ecclesiastical architecture, a basin of stone or marble in which the challice is washed after the rite of the Eucharist

Surface resembling rock-faced produced with pitching tool

Stone having arris clearly defined, face however is roughly cut with pitching chisel used along the line which becomes the arris

Machine for planing moldings on to stone; machine used to reduce thickness and gauge stone; machine used to produce a machine finish on limestone

Tracery designs, usually simple and geometrical, cut through a thin slab of stone, as distinguished from a tracery proper, which is formed by mortared sections of molding

The lower square part of the base of a column. A square base or a lower block, as in a pedestal. The base blocks at the juncture of base-board and trim around an opening

Obtained by rough planning the surface of stone, braking or plucking out small particles to give rough texture

Tools used for splitting stone blocks

A shaped metal weight that is suspended from the lower end of a line to determine the vertical trueness

A narrow board with parallel edges having a straight line drawn through the middle and a string attached at the upper end of the line for determining a vertical plane

Chisel drawn nearly to a point

A rough, tooled surface

The final filling and finishing of mortar joints that have been raked out

The finest and smoothest finish available in stone, generally only possible on hard, dense materials. Or, a glossy finish which brings out the full color and character of the stone

A flexible, usually thermal setting resin formed by a polymerization process using a small amount of accelerator compound and used as an adhesive or to repair or fill certain stones

Plastic film sheet used for curing or as a cleavage or isolation membrane

Ratio of pore space to the total volume of material expressed as a percent

Igneous rock characterized by distinct and contrasting sizes of course and fine grained crystals. Used as a decorative building stone

A hydraulic cement product obtained by pulverizing and calcimining a properly proportioned mixture of three minerals: lime, silica, and alumina

When a factory-finished tile (or whatever different cut of stone) is installed higher in relation of at least three other surrounding tiles

Method of drawing soluble salts or stains out of stone by applying an absorbent such as clay or diatomaceous earth mixed to a paste with water or cleaning solvent

Having received its final form before introduction into a structure, as in pre-cast concrete slabs

Two or more stones combined into a single unit by use of epoxy resins, steel framing or concrete backing

An open horizontal joint below the supporting angle or hanger located at approximately every floor line and not over 15 ft. apart horizontally, and every 20-30 ft. vertically, to prevent the weight from being transmitted to the masonry below. These joints are to be caulked with a resilient non-staining material to prevent moisture penetration

One who quarries stone

The outline of the exposed face of a cross section

Machine for cutting moldings on to stone

Refers to the pulling out of stones in a veneered wall to give an effect of ruggedness. The amount each stone is pulled out can vary between ¼ inch and 1½ inches. Stones are either pulled out at the same degree at both ends or sometimes one end is pulled out leaving the other flush with the majority of veneer

The natural sulfides of certain metals. The most common is iron pyrite, which is iron disulfide, a brittle mineral that is brassy yellow in color with greenish-black streaks

Stone that has been extracted from the earth by means of man power and machines

One who extracts natural stone from a quarry

The location of an operation where a natural deposit of stone is removed from the ground

Generally a rectangular piece of rough stone as it comes from the quarry, frequently scabbed (dressed) or wire-sawed for shipment

In building stone, unselected materials within the ranges of color and texture available from the quarry that is the source

Natural moisture in stone deposits and freshly quarried stone

A molding having a profile of one-quarter of a circle

Silicon dioxide occurring in colorless and transparent or colored hexagonal crystals and also in crystalline masses. One of the most common minerals, the chief constituent of quartz-based stone and granite

A stone that may be either sedimentary in formation (as in sandstone) or metamorphic (as in quartzite)

A metamorphic sandstone consisting of quartz grains cemented with silica, but not as hard as quartzite. Geologically, it is an intermediate rock between sandstone and quartzite

A compact granular rock composed of quartz crystals, usually so firmly cemented as to make the mass homogeneous. The stone is generally quarried in stratified layers, the surfaces of which are unusually smooth, and the crushing and tensile strength are extremely high. The color range is wide. Or, a silver-gray, metamorphic sandstone formed in exceedingly hard layers. In some deposits, intrusion of minerals during the formation process created unusual shades of brown and gold

A cut brick having a nominal two-inch horizontal face dimension

Calcium oxide which is crushed limestone that has been calcined

Stones at the corner of a wall emphasized by size, projection, rustication, or by a different finish

A groove cut into the surface along an edge so as to receive another piece similarly cut

Stepping back successive courses of masonry

An angular cut on the face of stone

A stone pattern where joints are web-like

Masonry of square or rectangular stones with neither vertical nor horizontal joints continuous and installed without patterns

That in which the course heights vary in size

A course of any thickness that is continued across the entire face. All range courses need not be of the same thickness

The extent of variation of color, shade, markings, texture, veining, and other characteristics of dimension stone, usually defined by using a number of samples or a mock-up

A limestone in which a new pattern of crystalline has pervasively replaced the crystal orientation in the original clastic particles, fossils, or fossil fragments, and interstitial cement

Raking out, refilling, and finishing joints with new mortar

An additional cut that countersinks a kerf from to the back edge of another piece of stone for the purpose of additional anchor clearance. It is not a gauged cut. If used for a bearing surface, must be shimmed to allow for tolerance in the cut

Combined floor and curb used as the bottom of showers

Reversed fluted

Removing the surface of stone in place by some dressing method to clean by exposing fresh stone

A fabrication technique often called ’rodding’. Refers to the strengthening of unsound marble and limestone by cementing aluminum or stainless steel rods into grooves or channels cut into the back of a stone unit. Another method of ’reinforcement’ is the lamination of fiberglass to the back of tile units

Carving or embossing raised above a background plane, as in a bas-relief

In relation to the stone trade, a process by which a fluid (epoxy) resin is made to be absorbed by the stone it is applied to in order to fill most natural fissures, nicks and crevices. It appears to also dramatically reduce the natural absorbency rate of the many very porous stone

Work performed, including cleaning, repair, and finishing, returning the stone to its original character, finish, and condition

Stones which have multiple widths and thicknesses, used as a self-supporting wall with no back-up

A chemical admixture to mortar or grout that slows setting or hardening

To moisten mortar and re-mix after original mixing, to the proper consistency for use

Stone surface hand dressed to show a netlike or vein like raised pattern. Also, a wall built of square pieces set diagonally, with the joints showing a netlike pattern

The right angle turns of a wall, molding, or other horizontal projecting member

Stone facing with the finish appearing on both the face and the edge of the same stone; as on the corner of a building

The depth of stone between its outer face and a window or door set in an opening; the reveal is at 90 degrees to the front face

The most pronounced direction of splitting or cleavage of a stone. Rift and grain may be obscure, as in some granite, but are important in both quarrying and processing stone

Irregular shaped stones used for facing bridge abutments and fills; stones thrown together without order to form a foundation, sustain walls, or minimize soil erosion. Also used for rustic stepping stones and patios

Refers to the heights of stone, generally used in reference to veneer stone

Ground water that travels upward through a masonry wall by means of natural capillary action

Split along natural cleavage planes, describes surface finish

An integral part of the earth’s crust composed of an aggregate of grains of one or more minerals (‘stone’ is the commercial term applied to quarry products)

This is similar to split face, except that the face of the stone is pitched to a given line and plain, producing a bold appearance rather than the comparatively straight face obtained in split face

An edge that is spalted from both sides, leaving a bubbled appearance

Reinforcement of a structurally unsound marble by cementing reinforcing rods into grooves or channels cut into the back of the slab

Semi-circular arch with all stone pieces being wedge shaped

A circular stone window fitted with carved tracery

Outside cut-slab, having one side sawed and the other rough, from a block that has been gang sawed

A surface finish accomplished by the gang sawing process

A preliminary stone cutting or carving process, removing the bulk of unwanted material

A brick laid on its face with the end surface visible in the wall face. Frequently spelled rolock

Mechanically rubbed for smoother finish; may have slight scratches

Abrasive stone that is used to smooth the edges of stone tile

A product term applied to dimension stone used for building purposes, chiefly walls and foundations and consisting of irregularly shaped pieces, partly trimmed or squared, generally with one split or finished face, and selected and specified within a site range

Generally local stone, that is roughly hand dressed, and intentionally laid with high relief in relatively modest structures or rural character. Also, a grade of building limestone, characterized by coarse texture

Emphasized joints recessed or beveled which are cut or formed in stonework

Recessing the margin of cut stone so that when placed together a channel is formed at each joint

A matte-textured surface finish with no gloss, finished by application of pressure

Arenaceous sedimentary rock composed mainly of quartz with feldspar as a possible minor component. Sandstones are clastic in origin (opposed to organic or chemical) and the binding agents are mostly calcite, clay and silica. See quartz-based stone

A clean-cut edge generally achieved by cutting with a diamond blade, gang saw, or wire saw

A finish obtained from the process used in producing blocks, slabs, or other units of building stone. It varies in texture from smooth to rough, and is typically named for the type of material used in sawing, e.g. diamond sawn, sand sawn, chat sawn, and shot sawn

1. To make a veneer joint watertight with an elastic adhesive compound. 2. Application of a below surface treatment to retard staining

Rocks formed of sediments laid down in successive strata or layers. The materials of which they are formed are derived from preexisting rocks or the skeletal remains of sea creatures

Hydrous Magnesium Iron Phyllosilicate [(Mg, Fe)3 Si2 O5 (OH)4] The main mineral composing most green marbles and ophicalcite. Serpentine-based rocks are called Serpentinite. A hydrous magnesium silicate material; generally dark green in color with markings of white, light green, or black. Considered commercially as a marble because it can be polished

An experienced journeyman who installs dimension stone

A fine grain sedimentary rock formed by the compaction of clay, silt or mud. It has a finely laminated structure which causes the stone to split readily, especially on weathered surfaces. It is commonly sold as slate though shale is not as hard as slate. It may be red, black, brown or gray

Low-grade regional metamorphism of pelitic sediments of shale, mudstone or fine-grained tuff

A property of stone used to describe relative freedom from cracks, faults, voids, and similar imperfections found in untreated stone. One of the characteristics encountered in fabrication

A chip or splinter separated from the main mass of a stone

Permanent damage occurring on the crystals of true geological marble when subjected to high stress. They appear like whitish, deep marking under the surface of the stone

An organization of manufacturers serving the ceramic tile industry. Its programs include promotion of the uses of tile, improvement of product standards and quality, development of new installation methods and techniques, and publication of the annual Installation Handbook. Many of the installation techniques detailed in the handbook can be used to set stone tile

A pattern for a repetitive marking or fabricating operation

A flooring surface of marble or granite chips in a cementitious or resinous matrix, which is ground and finished after setting

Surface quality of stone, independent of color

A rough surface finish

A surface treatment applied by intense heat flamin

Dimension stone units less than 2 inches thick

A flat strip of stone projecting above the floor between the jambs of a door. Also known as a saddle

A thin modular stone, generally less than ¾ inch thick

Dimensional allowance in the fabrication process

The ability of many lighter-colored marbles to transmit light

A variety of limestone that is a precipitate from hot springs. Some varieties of travertine take a polish and are known commercially as marble. ASTM C119-03 classifies travertine in both the limestone and the marble groupings

A rustic finish produced on stone tiles by processing them in a tumbler

Rotating apparatus used to produce tumble-finish on marble, travertine and other stone tiles

A layer, seam, or narrow irregular body of mineral material different from the surrounding formation

A cut into quarried stone perpendicular to the natural bedding plane

An interior or exterior stone wall covering layer

The condition resulting when kiln temperatures are so high as to fuse grains and close pores of a clay product, making the mass impervious

One of the stones in an arch between the impost and keystone

A cavity in rock; sometimes lines or filled with either amorphous or crystalline material; common in calcareous rocks such as marble or limestone

Generally a condition experienced only in flagging or flagstone materials; very common with flagstone materials that are taken from the ground and used in their natural state. To eliminate warping in stones it would be necessary to further finish the material such as machining, sand rubbing, honing, or polishing

A sloped area or the area water will run over

Containing water soluble or water dispersible binders

A common misconception that many people have is that these whitish ’stains’ or marks are caused by water. They are actually caused by acid alone or in the water that causes the calcium in the stone to neutralize the acid. This results in a portion of the stone surface actually being dissolved. See also ’Etching’

The extra water required to assist in the crystallization process when forming a hydrate (mortar, cement, concrete, plaster, etc…) When the hydrate gives up this excess water, at ambient temperatures, the result is a surface deposit known as efflorescence or staining

A coating used to treat the surface of the substrate, preventing liquid from entering, but allowing water vapor transmission

A trade expression used in fabrication of interior marble to describe the process of filling natural voids with cements, shellac, or other materials

The artificial removal of material, or impairment of the stone surface finish, through friction or impact

Splitting of stone by driving wedges into planes of weakness

An opening for drainage in veneer joints or in the structural components supporting the veneer

The ability of a coating to flow out, spread, or penetrate a substrate

A slope to the outside of the upper part of a joint to shed water

Natural alteration by either chemical or mechanical processes due to the action of the atmosphere, surface waters, soil and other ground waters, or to temperature changes. Changes by weathering are not necessarily undesirable or harmful

One who purchases dimensional stone in all forms for resale to the trade

A warp in a semi-finished stone slab to be removed by further fabrication

The bottom section of a window frame and/or the bottom section of an exterior masonry window opening

A narrow shelf fitted across the lower part on the inside of a window opening

A sawing device consisting of one or more wire cables, running over pulleys used to cut natural stone into blocks and slabs by tension and fed slurry of an abrasive and water cuts by abrasion

A method of cutting stone by passing a twisted, multi-strand wire over the stone, and immersing the wire in a slurry of abrasive material

The ability of a coating to cover all areas of the substrate to which it is applied, including edges. Also, the effect of an electrostatic charge upon a coating and the ability of the coating to cover all exposed conductive areas