(May 2010) „The Wall, of course“ says Cem Uras after a moment’s thought and laughs as he answers our question as to what the interlocking stonewall system is called. He alludes to Pink Floyd’s famous rock opera of the same name. The interlocking modular system is patented and simple as child’s play. Laying out a broad spectrum of applications, Uras embraces the USA – his new home, and Turkey – his roots: „The Wall allows us to build earthquake-proof buildings“.
The principle is based on the idea of two stone blocks mounted one on top of the other and connected by a narrow tongue and groove. The upper stone has a tongue protrusion fitting into the groove of the stone below.
When the construction forms a closed figure such as a rectangle around a hearth in the garden it forms a stable connection needing no further reinforcement. Energy applied from outside is passed on to the interior of the construction enhancing stability. Construction of this type can be recycled to new forms.
The mass of the stone is sufficient to ensure stability for walls in and around private properties. „To build a wall able to withstand all forces of nature a standard industrial glue can be used to bind the stones“, says Uras. The advantage of the modular system compared to traditional masonry is the simplicity in handling making masonry accessible for the do-it-yourself builder.
Depending on use, various formats are available. Standard stones come in sizes measuring 30,5 cm x 15,2 cm x 10,2 cm with the groove at the top and the tongue at the bottom of the stone. Special end-pieces are also available as well as cladding for the end pieces, etc. The foundation is a plate in double width with a stone groove.
Photos: ANS Mermer
