builderbill

Graphical Construction Glossary >> masonry. >> arches >> Types of Arches


Types Of Arches
A brief introduction to the various types of arches and their uses

Below is a list of the various types of arches. It is by no means complete but it does cover the main ones and the most commonly used names for them in English. If there is a link alongside it leads to a separate page with sketches and photographs that goes into the details of the setting out of the curves.

zhaozhou bridge
The zhaozhou bridge in China, an extraordinary and sophisticated example of a segmental masonry arch built in 605AD.




Flat Arch This appears to be the most simple arch to build but in fact it is quite tricky and they need skill to make them look good.a flat arch   Corbelled Arch Not actually a true arch. Probably the easiest one to build because it does not require any support during construction.Corbelled Arch
Triangular Arch Simple single piece stone laid together. The span is limited by the size of the available material. Triangular Arch   Semicircular Arch Known as the Roman Arch after the people that brought it to perfection. First created before the Roman times. Semicircular Arch
Bullseye Arch Also called a circular arch. Much used for windows.Bullseye Arch   Bell Arch A Roman arch sat on corbels that are imposts.Bell Arch
Islamic Arch. Also known the Moorish Arch, a defining feature of Moorish architecture.a moorish arch   Pointed Islamic Arch A pointed variation of the Moorish arch. a pointed islamic arch
Segmental Arch As shown in the introductory photo on this page, based on a segment of a circle.Segmental Arch   Gothic Arch The defining feature of the late middle ages in Europe.Gothic Arch
Foil Arches Embellishments of Gothic architecture. The one shown is a Trefoil Arch.Foil Arches   Arches based on circular arcs There are many varieties of these. This one known as the three centre arch.Arches based on circular arcs
Geometrical Arches Based on geometrical or mathematical curves. This on is an elliptical arch.Geometrica Arches   Ogee Arch Based on opposing circular arcs. Ogee Arch
Venetian Arch A variation of the bell arch.Venetian Arch   Skewed Arch An arch that is not at right angle to the wall it traverses. Most famously first used in early railway viaducts. Skewed Arch


If you didn't find exactly what you are looking for try this search tool that will search the site and the web.


"What can be added to the happiness of a man who is in health, out of debt, and has a clear conscience?
Adam Smith 1723-1790


"When we build, let us think that we build for ever."John Ruskin 1819-1900


coates hire
Hire Equipment
hafele
Furniture Fittings - Architectural Hardware - Electronic Locking Systems - Technical Hardware
BuilderBill sponsorship

BuilderBill Books


building maths
Building Maths

Stair Design
asbestos ebook
Asbestos Book

Calculator Pages.

Concrete yardage calculator

Reader's Questions.

Questions and answers.


 

 



Please Note! The information on this site is offered as a guide only!  When we are talking about areas where building regulations or safety regulations could exist,the information here could be wrong for your area.  It could be out of date!  Regulations breed faster than rabbits!
You must check your own local conditions.
Copyright © Bill Bradley 2007-2012. All rights reserved.
Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape