An older masonry term for the joint or interstice left between fitted stones in a wall. Masons fill this deliberate gap with mortar to bond the stones together and seal the structure against water intrusion. The practice ensures structural integrity by distributing loads evenly across the irregular faces of natural stone.
Pack the abreuvoir completely with mortar before setting the next course.
While rarely used on active job sites, restoration masons still encounter this term in historic building specifications.
Related terms
Coursing joint
The horizontal layer of mortar sitting between two courses of masonry.
Grout
A fluid mixture of cement, sand, and water used to fill gaps in masonry and tile work.
Wythe
A continuous vertical section of a masonry wall that is one unit thick.
Bond
The overlapping pattern of bricks or stones laid in a wall.