4. Replacement and consolidation techniques

The "trouser leg" or "coat rack" technique

When edge stapling is not possible, as in the case of replacing an isolated stone after cutting off the lugs, for example, sloping blind holes ("culotte" staples) can be made on the back of the stone. The "culotte" fastener is a fastener with its end inclined to penetrate the back of the plate and support it in the manner of a "coat rack".

The angle of the fastener is between 45° and 60°. Its penetration length into the slab must be at least 25 mm for 30 mm slabs and 17 mm for 20 mm slabs. A minimum of 10 mm of stone must remain at the bottom of the breeches.

The fastener is drilled or sawn into the plate, depending on whether the fastener is cylindrical or rectangular in cross-section. It is dust-free.

The fasteners to be...