Knapping
Knapped stonework was often used for important buildings constructed during Norman and Saxon periods. One example is the Norwich Guildhall, built in the 1400s. The east end (pictured above) illustrates an example of smooth, checquerboard (or diaper) flushwork of knapped flint and light limestone. The stones are square-knapped to such a degree that galetting was not required - neither was mortar. |
Knapping is a technique used to shape flint (or other stone with similar characteristics). The purpose of knapping is to split the stone and make it into flat squares or other distinct shapes for decorative purposes.
The residual flakes of stone that are created as a result of knapping are sometimes saved and used to fill spaces and protect any exposed mortar. This technique is known as galetting.
In the case of knapped flint, the technique highlights the smooth black surface of flint, which can be framed in limestone. This treatment is called flushwork. Flushwork is the decorative use of knapped flint in conjunction with dressed stone to form patterns.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Recharging Electrical Skills in Wales
Step by step collaborative solutions.
Ireland budget announcement 2025
CIOB responds with positivity, criticism and clarity.
The continued ISG fall out, where to go?
Support for ISG contractors, companies and employees.
New HES national centre for traditional building retrofit
Announced as HES publishes survey results which reveal strong support for retrofit.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Expected to become one of the largest activities in the global construction industry.
Scope determination appeals and the Building Safety Act
Process explained following release of appeals guidance.
The ECA industry focus video channel
Keeping update with the industry session by session.
Over 25 recorded informations sessions freely available.
AT Awards 2024 ceremony East London October 25th.
Revisiting the AT community at the 2023 awards evening.
The Community Housing Fund and built affordable homes
CLTN reviews the impact of the Fund and calls for extension.
The grading system of the Regulator for Social Housing
A background, an explanation and ten recent enforcements.
Construction, repair and maintenance. Book review.
Putting new life into a city with a 1900 year history.
BSRIA Briefing 2024: Sustainable Futures speakers
Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living 22 Nov.
Wall of support for post-Grenfell regulation of electricians
Call for a shake-up of the construction industry highlighted on radio.
Digital sustainability through future AEC tools
Bringing together industry and academia to meet challenges.