The V joint in stone masonry is a specific type of mortar joint finish characterized by its distinctive V-shape.
This type of joint is created by leaving the mortar slightly protruding from the surface of the stone. According to standard practice, the mortar is typically left to protrude around half an inch from the stone face. Once the mortar has reached the appropriate consistency (often described as thumbprint hard), it is then cut. The cut is made at a 45-degree angle starting from the middle of the joint and extending back towards the edge of the stone. This angled cut is performed on both the top and bottom edges of the mortar line within the joint. The resulting profile forms a 'V' shape that points outwards, away from the wall surface.
Creating the V Joint
The process involves careful tooling to achieve the precise angle and depth. Here's a simplified breakdown:
- Joint Preparation: Mortar is pressed into the gap between stones, ensuring it is full.
- Excess Removal: Excess mortar is removed, leaving it slightly proud (protruding). The reference specifies leaving it "around half an inch" from the stone.
- Cutting: Using a jointing tool (like a V-jointer or a tuck pointer with a straight edge), the mortar is cut at a 45-degree angle from the center of the joint back to the stone edge.
- Finishing: This cut is performed on both the top and bottom sides of the joint, "Creating a ' V ' which points out."
Key Characteristics
- Shape: Distinctive V-shape pointing outwards.
- Method: Created by cutting protruding mortar at a 45-degree angle from the center to the stone edge.
- Protrusion: Typically involves leaving mortar proud by about half an inch before cutting.
- Tooling: Requires specific tools and technique for consistency.
Purpose and Aesthetics
V joints offer both functional and aesthetic benefits in stone masonry:
- Shadow Line: The angled cut creates a sharp shadow line that highlights the individual stones and adds depth and definition to the wall surface.
- Durability: While not as weather-resistant as concave or weathered joints, the V-shape can still shed water reasonably well compared to flush or raked joints.
- Appearance: It provides a clean, crisp look that can suit various architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary.
Different joint profiles, including the V joint, significantly impact the final appearance and weather resistance of a stone wall.
| Joint Type | Profile Description | Common Application |
|---|---|---|
| V Joint | Protruding mortar cut at 45-degree angle | Highlighting stone, adding definition |
| Concave | Curved inward | Excellent weather resistance |
| Weathered | Sloped inward from top | Good weather resistance |
| Raked | Set back from stone face | Defines stones, can hold water |
| Flush | Level with stone face | Simplistic look, less weather resistant |
The V joint is often referred to simply as a V-joint, as mentioned in the reference. It's a popular choice for masons looking to give stone work a visually striking and well-defined appearance.
