La pedra en sec. Materials, eines i tècniques tradicionals a les illes ...

Definition
To lay securely the first stones at the
base of the terrace wall or wall which
mark the start of the slope and its
direction. In general the largest stones
are used to ensure strength and
to support the weight of the wall.
Description
Laying of foundations begins by placing
a stone at each end of the previously
excavated hole (trench), inclined
towards the interior and wedged
in place if necessary to ensure stability.
The levelling line is stretched between
the two ends of the trench and
is fastened in place at each end with
a stone or stick. It is usual to put a
small branch between the stone and
the string to separate them and to
stop the foundation stones or those
placed in each course from touching
the levelling line.
The other stones which form the foundations
are aligned following the
levelling line and are placed leaning
somewhat towards the interior. They
are wedged and the space formed by
the wall box is filled with basket-loads
of rubble.
Due to their size all of these stones
are moved using a lever (a large or
small crowbar).
In the case of walls which are not rectilinear
and hence have an interior or
exterior vault (sickle cut and double
sickle respectively according to the
terminology used by Archduke Lluis
Salvador) a levelling line is not used
but rather the master mason's eye is
relied upon.
Tools required
Levelling line, crowbar, lever, mass,
large stone hammer, two-handled
basket, triangular hoe.