Reusing brownstone
So we got our brownstone facade re-done (chipped and slurried) and saved some of the larger chipped pieces of original stone thinking we could use it for something but I have no idea what. Anyone have ideas? Better still, examples to share?
So we got our brownstone facade re-done (chipped and slurried) and saved some of the larger chipped pieces of original stone thinking we could use it for something but I have no idea what. Anyone have ideas? Better still, examples to share?
I am sorry. I should clarify: some people claimed to crush the brownstone they chipped from the home. Our guy said what they actually do is buy already crushed stone to which they add mica.
Our pieces are thin.. Some almost a foot long but not very thick. So I am not sure if they can be reused in another way.
In fact, the Landmarks recommended re-facing spec calls for mixing in ground up brownstone for the final coat:
“the best brownstone patching contains actual crushed stone. Use stone removed from the area being repaired or old stone with the same qualities. The crushed stone should be ground and passed through a 16-mesh screen, and washed thoroughly.
grand army
You’ve heard right. Love that old world technique.
4inps
I’m wondering why such larger chipped pieces? How big are they?
Make sure you don’t compromise the building structure.
Dibs, that cracked me up.
Grand Army, when we were checking references and masons people said they do it. But the guy who did ours said that it’s actually really expensive to do and that it isn’t really done anymore. Instead, they add mica to the slurry.
So really? No one has used brownstone in any sort of landscaping? I was wondering if it could be used as pavers or if someone had a more useful idea.
I’ve heard that some masonry contractors will pulverize the old brownstone and add it to the cement mix for the final coat. Apparently it adds depth of color and texture — the mica in real brownstone gives the surface a very slight “sparkle” in sunlight. Anyone heard of this or know if it’s still done?
DIBS, that only works if smear something on it.
Form them into a picture of the Madonna and exhibit it at the Brooklyn Museum. 🙂