Above, an example of a drystane dyke in need of some repair. Note the smooth-faced construction from the base to a point about two-thirds of the dyke's height comprising smaller stones built as a double wall tapered inwards. This is known as the double. The spaces between the two outer walls is filled with small stones known as hearting. About the mid point in height, at regular intervals, longer stones are fitted spanning both leaves and sometimes projecting a short distance. These are names "throughbands" Above the double a row of flat stones is placed to cap the double wall. These are known as "coverbands". The top of the wall is finished with larger stones laid vertically so the top is at the same level. These are called "copes". All the stones are keyed firmly in place using wsmall wedge-shaped pieces of stone called "pins".

Traditionally, no mortar is used in the construction, and the wall remains flexible enough to tolerate small amounts of ground movement. In recent times, some farmers have taken to secure the copes with mortar. Although this does strengthen the top of the wall to resist livestock contact,teh lack of flexibility can result in the lower parts of the wall falling out due to the copes acting as a lintol spanning over a weak part of the wall.