ABSTRACT
Faced with a dwelling where it has been established that natural stone is visible, how is the surveyor to ascertain which type of stone has been used? Furthermore, is it likely to provide a new owner with trouble-free, and hopefully handsome, walling given proper maintenance over the years to come? The surveyor’s local knowledge is vital towards providing an answer to these questions, but it is worthwhile taking a moment to consider the different types of rock that may be encountered during an inspection. Understanding their origins will assist in appreciating why building stones respond in different ways when exposed to the elements and the stresses of being incorporated in man-made structures.
