Help! How do I fix an old keystone back up?!

Discussion in 'Builders' Talk' started by Nix, Jun 29, 2006.

  1. Nix

    Nix New Member

    Hey all

    I'm desperately in need of some help. I have just taken off and re-rendered the front of my house and in the process, a keystone over a window came down.

    Its now in two pieces (which I can overcome once its up) but I don't know how to fix it back up. It seemed to be held up previously just by the grace of god and a breeze. I heard a rumour that lots of gripfill would do it, but I'm sceptical!

    Its three storeys up, so please be confident in your answers, lest I be sued by a poor passer-by!

    Thanks alot
    Nix
     
  2. building control

    building control New Member

    It should be tapered, so it wedges in?

    if its not you will have to mechanically fix it --not gripfill.
     
  3. Trog

    Trog New Member

    I would recommend you get hold of this stuff
    http://www.ilpa.it/eng/prodotti.php?page=product&cat=2&id=21

    you will need to pin the broken bits together with the glue and then pin the keystone in position. Use stainless steel pins.

    If you do decide to use the glue, go for the vertical as it is not as runny as the horizontal (all will become clear when you click on the link)
     
  4. bigjules

    bigjules New Member

    Isn't a keystone the lynch-pin, (literally), of a self supporting arch?
    Is it wise to glue it in with a bit of old jollop, Italian or not?
     
  5. Trog

    Trog New Member

    Yes the keystone is the lynchpin as you rightly say.
    I think the question though is why did it come out in the first place before we get into the realms of repair.
    I have however offered a method of repairing the stone and a method of preventing it falling forward if indeed that is how it came out.
    That jollop as you so eloquently put it Big Jules is top gear for stone repair and fixing.
     
  6. madidus

    madidus New Member

  7. Trog

    Trog New Member

  8. nix_nix

    nix_nix New Member

    Hey, thanks for all your replies. I think I have gotten confused as to my idea of a 'keystone' as it is definately not anything 'lynch-pin' like! It seems to be only for decoration, there is a proper brick lintel behind it and they are not connected in any way at all. I think it is made from some sort of plaster, but it is quite heavy.
    Does this make it any easier??
    Cheers!
     
  9. nix_nix

    nix_nix New Member

  10. PimperneltheScarlet

    PimperneltheScarlet New Member

    How about some good old fashioned epoxy and drill, plug and screw while the epoxy sets. Counterbore the holes in your "plaster" embelishment and fill with similar.
     
  11. gardm1nt

    gardm1nt New Member

    sounds like stucco to me.
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice