Squares Cut Out of Colonial Stone Houses for Scaffolding: Putlog Holes

If you’ve ever noticed square-shaped holes in the walls of colonial stone houses, you might have wondered about their purpose. While they may look like missing stones or signs of deterioration, these openings actually served a crucial role in historical masonry construction. These indentations, known as putlog holes, were used to support scaffolding during the original building process. Today, they remain as fascinating architectural remnants of early construction techniques.

What Are Putlog Holes?

Putlog holes are small, square, or rectangular openings intentionally left in stone or brick walls to support scaffolding beams (known as putlogs). During the construction of colonial stone houses, workers needed a way to safely access higher sections of the walls. They would insert wooden poles or logs into these holes to create a temporary platform for masons to stand on while laying stones and applying mortar.

Once construction was complete, the putlogs were removed, leaving behind empty recesses in the stonework. While some of these holes were later filled in, many remain visible today, serving as historical markers of the original building process.

Why Were Putlog Holes Left Open?

Several reasons explain why some putlog holes were never sealed:

  1. No Structural Necessity – Once the scaffolding was removed, closing the holes wasn’t always necessary, as they did not compromise the integrity of the structure.
  2. Drainage & Ventilation – In some cases, putlog holes unintentionally provided ventilation for basements or attics and allowed moisture to escape, preventing trapped dampness inside the stone walls.
  3. Aesthetic or Practical Reasons – Some builders may have left the holes open due to time constraints or as a way to show the historical construction methods used.

Are Putlog Holes Found in Other Buildings?

Yes! Putlog holes are not unique to colonial stone houses—they can be found in historical masonry structures worldwide, including castles, cathedrals, and ancient Roman buildings. The technique was widely used before modern scaffolding systems were developed.

Should Putlog Holes Be Filled or Preserved?

For homeowners and preservationists of historic colonial homes, the decision to fill or maintain putlog holes depends on factors like:

  • Structural Integrity – If the holes pose a risk of water damage or weakening the wall, they may be filled with mortar or matching stone.
  • Historical Preservation – Many historic homes leave the putlog holes visible as a way to honor the original construction methods.
  • Aesthetic Preferences – Some homeowners may choose to keep or restore the openings for authenticity while ensuring they do not impact the home’s durability.

End Note

The squares cut out of colonial stone houses, known as putlog holes, are more than just missing stones; they tell the story of early scaffolding methods and traditional masonry techniques. These remnants of the past offer a glimpse into how colonial homes were built and why certain architectural features endure today. Whether preserved for historical value or carefully sealed for protection, putlog holes remain a distinctive mark of the craftsmanship and ingenuity of early builders.