Clunch
![]() |
The Orwell Clunch Pit, near Cambridge, is a medieval quarry that was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1985. |
[edit] Introduction
Clunch is a form of soft, chalky limestone rock that closely resembles chalk and shares many of its characteristics, but with lower density. It is used mainly in eastern England and Normandy.
The term is also generically applied to soft, inferior building stone that is used in place of stronger, more desirable material.
[edit] Characteristics
In its freshly quarried state, clunch is soft and holds water, which makes it easier to cut. Once dry, it hardens and becomes more difficult to cut.
Clunch was used extensively in medieval times as a building material. It was often used for chimneys, property boundary walls and small agricultural buildings.
It was not suitable for large scale use, since it would easily erode when exposed to chemicals or severe weather. Structures made from clunch had to be protected with paint, cement or stucco and could then be finished with a lime wash.
However, even when the surfaces were covered, clunch was not especially durable and could even be damaged by frost. Despite this, it was often used in certain parts of the country, since it was inexpensive and widely available.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.