Effect of Freeze/Thaw Cycles on the Physical Properties of Selected Building Stones

Abstract

Effect of climatic loading on the physical properties of three different kinds of sandstone is investigated. The studied materials were used for masonry and ornamental parts of historical buildings over a long time period.The application of sandstone for building construction in the Central European region can be traced to the 14th century and ends in the 19th century, where the static function took over reinforced concrete. The samples of researched sandstones are exposed to the freeze/thaw cycles and the effect on materials performance is evaluated using measurement of several physical parameters. On the basis of obtained results, the materials behavior at real service conditions can be assessed, which is a necessary information for their practical usage in the reconstruction works on the historical monuments.