Natural Stones of Spain Episode 2: Durability & Usage
Kevin Moses
Episode 2: Durability & Usage
Stone Durability
According to Bell (1993), the durability of a building stone is a measure of its ability to resist weathering and therefore retain its original size, shape and strength and appearance over an extensive period of time. As-built heritage materials resist decay differently, special attention is needed if constructions are intended to last for long periods of time. The specific resistant characteristic of each type of stone is determined by its petrophysical properties such as Density, Water absorption, Porosity accessible to water/Hg percentage, percentage of Microporosity etc.
The Spain Houses
Traditionally, Spanish homes were built with adobe or mud-brick which is durable and also extremely heavy. These houses have red-tiled roofs and clean stucco walls.
Monterey, Mission style, Moorish are the terms used for building styles in Spain.
(Spanish - Moorish Architecture)
The Roofs
The iconic barrel roof tiles are typically found in earthy and warm colours. Traditionally, these roofs were made from terracotta clay and slate due to their ability to withstand intense heat. Terracotta and slate roofs remain exceptionally durable, equivalent to these days concrete ones, with an added advantage of being environment friendly.
(Spanish - Slate Roof House)
The Stucco walls
The clean and sturdy walls support the red tile roof. The walls cover other materials of building from natural elements, which are often in white and creamy columns.
(The Stucco Walls of Spanish House)
Wood Support Beams
It is an exposure of wooden beam support with a farmhouse style. It is a key element in Spanish architecture. These wooden beams support the roof.
Simple Embellishments
It is the controlled use of ornamentation. They adorn the large expanses of exterior walls.
Arches and Curves
Spanish homes are rectilinear in nature due to the common practice of adding to existing structures. Spanish design elements highlight arches and curves. Smooth archway entryways, cylindrical turrets are all common practices.
Other Elements of Spanish Architecture
Arcades, Courtyards and Patios, Ornamental ironwork, Balconies, Tower Chimneys are the other elements of Spain’s architecture.
