STONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Stone has been used as a construction material for thousands of years. It has long been recognized as a material of great durability and superior artistic quality, the foremost choice for buildings associated with status, power and religion.
2.0 TYPES OF STONE
Building stone, also called dimension stone, derives from one of three naturally occurring rock types:
Igneous - Hard and non-porous rock formed from the slow or quick cooling of molten magma. The best example is granite and quartzite.
Sedimentary - Soft and fairly porous rock formed from deposits of eroded pre-existing rock that settled in layers mostly on sea beds, and became compacted. The best examples are sandstone and limestone.
Metamorphic - Hard and non-porous rock formed from pre-existing rock that has been altered by intense heat or pressure. The best examples are marble and slate.
The most common stone used in building construction are:-
1. Granite
Granite, a solidified liquid igneous rock rich in silicates comprising feldspar and quartz, is the most durable stone in the modern day scenario which can be remolded and crafted to any desired architectures. Nowadays, it is used for contemporary styling and creation. Granite is also taking its place in home decors and business establishments in the form of vases, furniture etc since people are becoming aware of the versatility of this natural product. Granite is used as a building material in the form of granite tiles and granite slabs for wall cladding, roofing and flooring and a variety of other interior and exterior applications. Granite gives a warm or cool look and on the other hand can have a rough finish or a superior shinning finish, either way granite monuments or granite furniture look pleasing. Granite is one of the toughest materials available and hence durable. These products give value for money since it is nearly maintenance free.
The uniqueness of granite