Tudor Artisans : Cast Stone - Gate Piers & Pier Caps

About Tudor Stone/Masonary : Beyond steep gables and half-timbering, architectural stone elements denote Tudor architecture (and English architecture). These stone elements normally take the form of window surrounds and door surrounds on the exterior. Label moulds, which typically top door and window surrounds, are also requisite for an authentic Tudor effect. Stone was used heavily in England in Tudor and medieval times - due to architecture was coming from the fortification period of the early middle ages. Stone was extremely available and durable - lasting many times longer than the oak timbering. This is evident in medieval ruin structures where today only the stone elements remain. Much of Tudor architecture relies on natural products - brick and stone being primary materials. Tudor windows are extremely facinating with their complex stone mullions, steel casements, and leaded glass panels. A house design can have a mixture of elements, but stone window and door surrounds will take the design decidedly English. Today, due to huge expense of the material, limestone has been replaced with cast stone products. Cast stone can be equally strong, formed quicker, at a great cost savings in time and material. Stone is almost maintenance-free, needs no termite protection, and will last a lifetime (or two). Today's architecture is demanding natural, heavy, and authentic building materials. Tudor architecture requires these stone elements. Tudor interiors also require a significant amount of wood and stone. A Tudor house library or study should have wood walls (small panels only) and a gothic arch stone fireplace!

Date of last Modification: Aug 1, 2004 Contact: info@tudorartisans.com