The No.1 Rule in Historical Masonry Restoration is always expect the unexpected…..

by Gillian Lancaster | Jul 29, 2023 | Dallas Fort Worth Area, Historic Restoration

Expecting the Unexpected in Historical Masonry Restoration: The No.1 Rule

Introduction:

Historical masonry buildings are an important part of our architectural heritage and need to be preserved for future generations to appreciate. However, when it comes to restoring these structures, there is one rule that always holds true: expect the unexpected. From hidden construction flaws to unforeseen structural damage, there are countless surprises that can arise during a restoration project. As structural engineers and architects, it is essential to be well-prepared and well-informed to minimize the risks of these surprises and ensure the success of historical masonry restoration projects.

Be Thorough in Your Inspection

Before diving into a restoration project, it is crucial to conduct a thorough investigation of the historical masonry structure to identify any underlying issues and potential challenges. This includes assessing the overall construction, analyzing the material properties, evaluating the foundation, and examining the condition of the walls, roofs, and other key architectural features. By conducting a comprehensive inspection, you can better understand the building’s unique history, design, and structural integrity, allowing you to prepare for any surprises that may come your way.

Establish a Clear Plan of Action

Once you have conducted a thorough inspection, the next step is to develop a clear plan of action that outlines the scope of the restoration project, timelines, and budget. This plan should include details such as the type of materials to be used, the approach to restore the building’s structural integrity, and the necessary permits required for the project. Having a clear plan of action provides a roadmap for the restoration process, reduces the likelihood of unexpected challenges, and ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page.

Be Prepared to Adapt and Revise the Plan

As the restoration process unfolds, it is common to encounter unexpected challenges or complications that require adjustments to the plan of action. It is essential to be flexible and adapt to these changing circumstances to avoid costly delays or safety issues. For example, if a hidden structural issue is discovered during the restoration process, the approach to restoring the structure’s integrity may need to be revised. By being prepared to adapt and revise the plan, you can ensure that the project stays on track and is completed successfully.

Work with an Experienced Professional Team

Perhaps the most critical factor in a successful historical masonry restoration project is working with an experienced and qualified team of professionals. This includes structural engineers, architects, contractors, and historical experts who have a deep understanding of masonry construction and restoration. They can help you identify potential challenges from the outset, develop a comprehensive plan of action, and implement practical solutions that ensure the restoration project is completed safely and meets the necessary regulatory and compliance standards.

Recognize the Historical Significance of the Project

Finally, it is essential to recognize the historical significance of the restoration project and the value in preserving the building for future generations. Historical masonry structures often have a unique story that calls for a respectful approach to the restoration process. This involves working with historic preservationists, experts in the building’s architectural style, and other stakeholders who are invested in the project’s success. By recognizing and respecting the historical significance of the project, you can approach the restoration process with care and sensitivity.

Conclusion:

Historical masonry restoration requires a combination of technical expertise, careful planning, and a reverence for the historical significance of the project. The No.1 rule for success in these projects is to expect the unexpected and be prepared to adapt when needed. By conducting a comprehensive inspection, developing a clear plan of action, working with an experienced professional team, and respecting the building’s history, you can ensure that these treasures of our architectural heritage are preserved for future generations to enjoy. As structural engineers , architects, and consultants it is our responsibility to approach these projects with care, attention to detail and reverence for the building’s rich history.

Brick is a classic building material that has been used for centuries

by AlandMel | Sep 21, 2022 | Brick Repair

Brick is a classic building material that has been used for centuries. It is known for its durability and strength, but even brick can succumb to the elements over time. If you have brick walls or brickwork on your home, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of damage. Cracks, chips, and missing mortar are all indications that brick repair may be necessary.

There are a few different methods that can be used to repair brickwork. Mortar can be used to fill in cracks and gaps, and new bricks can be laid to replace damaged ones. In some cases, brick veneer may be the best option to give your home a fresh look. Regardless of the repair method you choose, it is important to work with a qualified brick mason to ensure that the job is done correctly. With proper care and maintenance, your brickwork will last for many years to come.

Over time, the brick on a house can start to show signs of wear and tear. brick masonry repair is a process of repairing brickwork that has been damaged by weathering, age, or structural instability. The first step in brick repair is to assess the damage and determine the best course of corrective action. Once the damage has been assessed, the brick masonry repair process can begin. This typically involves removing the damaged brick and replacing it with new brick. In some cases, brick masonry repair may also involve reinforcing the existing brickwork with steel rods or other support structures. Regardless of the scope of the project, brick masonry repair is a complex process that should only be carried out by experienced professionals.

If you have questions about brick repair or would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact us today. We would be happy to discuss your options and help you choose the best solution for your home.

Historic masonry is a vulnerable construction material that can be made more resilient.

by AlandMel | Sep 14, 2022 | Historic Restoration

Historic masonry is a vulnerable construction material that can be made more resilient. Historic buildings and structures are often repaired or strengthened to make them withstand the elements, but this process does not always take into account their historic aspects – which could cause even further damage in some cases! The good news? We have found ways of improving these vulnerabilities so they don’t pose as much risk when it comes time for rehabilitation efforts; all while preserving what makes each building unique.

Masonry is a popular choice for construction due to its durability and aesthetic appeal, but it is not without its vulnerabilities.

For example, masonry is susceptible to weathering and can be damaged by freeze-thaw cycles, high winds, or even earthquakes. In addition, historic masonry buildings are often located in urban areas where they are subject to pollution and other environmental factors.

All of these factors can contribute to the deterioration of masonry, and if left unaddressed, this deterioration can lead to structural problems that put the building at risk of collapse.

Fortunately, there are ways to improve the resilience of masonry so that it can better withstand the elements and the effects of time. One way to do this is by using weather-resistant mortar, which can help to protect masonry from weathering.

In addition, masonry can be strengthened through the use of reinforcement techniques such as lateral restraint anchors. These techniques help to keep masonry intact during periods of high winds or earthquakes, and can prevent the building from collapsing.

Finally, it is important to regularly clean and repair masonry to prevent further deterioration. By taking these steps, we can help to preserve the historic character of masonry buildings while also making them more resilient to the elements.

Historic Restoration in Bonham Texas

by Al | Mar 23, 2022 | Bonham, Dallas Fort Worth Area, Historic Restoration, Leaning brickwork

Historic restoration in Bonham? Alan Pettingale’s business card says it all: “A brick building only has one life.” That is especially true of historic buildings that achieve iconic status in local communities. “When you lose one of those, you lose heritage,” says Pettingale. “You are not going to be able to put that backup.” Fittingly enough, Pettingale was sharing his expertise at an informal meeting held at Texcel Exploration, located in a historic building on the south side of the Bonham Square that has been restored by David and Teresa Stapp.

There is an art to properly repairing historic masonry structures and Pettingale is something of an artist. For more than 30 years, he has been designing and implementing a wide range of masonry stabilization and restoration strategies.

Maintaining historic downtowns requires a somewhat unique skill set — unique in Texas, anyway. Pettingale is from England, where the art of remedial masonry stabilization has been practiced for centuries. The oldest structure he has worked on was the York Wall in Yorkshire built almost 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Examples of Pettingale’s masonry expertise in North Texas include Heard-Craig House in McKinney and First Christian Church in Bonham.

So, what does a masonry expert with a deep appreciation for historic structures notice first when he looks at downtown Bonham?

I’m concerned when I walk around the square and see the exposed walls,” Pettingale states, referring to flank walls that were never meant to be exposed to the elements.

If one building collapses, it exposes two flank walls.

People think, ‘Ah, I’ll just slap a bit of mortar on it,’ but it is a bit more complicated than that,” says Pettingale.

To understand how these buildings can be stabilized, it requires a working knowledge of how they were put together in the first place. Concrete wasn’t readily available until the late 1800s, therefore a lime-based mortar, similar to the mortar used extensively by the Romans, is commonly found in Texas structures built 1850-1880. Lime-based mortar, while not as hard as Portland cement, has important characteristics that provide advantages when working with natural stone and other softer building materials often found in historic structures.

Pettingale has been applying his knowledge of historic masonry restoration, when called upon, for the past 14 years in Bonham. Most recently, he has been offering advice as City of Bonham officials and concerned building owners consider devising a comprehensive plan that would ensure public safety in a high-traffic area dominated by historic structures. Locals remember the building that fell 36 hours before a crowd would have been gathered in that exact location during Heritage Day Celebration in 2013.

When one building becomes unstable or actually falls, it can have a detrimental effect on the surrounding buildings.

“When these structures are all intact and tight, they all support each other,” explained Pettingale. “Basically, we are working with a set of dominoes.”

Since the structures are all dependent on each other, it is important to educate owners of the buildings regarding what should be a common goal to preserve their investment and protect the public. A consensus is growing to form a Downtown Bonham Association to address this concern.

“Once the owners of buildings on the square understand the significance of a sound and reasonable project such as this, an effect will be caused to produce a movement that is vital to the preservation of the heritage of Bonham,” David Stapp predicted.

“I think this is a project that should be explored if it will preserve and implement safety to the historical buildings on the square,” added Teresa Stapp.

As this discussion gains momentum, look for Bonham City Council to consider tools at its disposal to ensure public safety.

Pettingale says it is fairly easy to spot any one of a handful of telltale signs that indicate a deteriorating historic masonry structure presents a danger to the public. With the advent of high resolution aerial photography, documenting that danger is relatively easy. Pettingale offered to work with a local engineering student who wants to specialize in remedial masonry stabilization.

Historic restoration in Bonham? “They could use me as a resource,” remarked Pettingale.

Historic Restoration in Windom, Texas

by Al | Mar 23, 2022 | Brick Repair, Historic Restoration, Leaning brickwork, Lintel Repair, Windom

Historic restoration is vital to preserve America’s heritage! A group of historic masonry experts, led by Alan Pettingale of Specialized Masonry Restoration, Mckinney, Texas, restored the front wall of this historic bank. With new hand cut stone sills and new lintels were installed and new brickwork was replaced using the original stone footings surrounding the main entrance. New front windows were also installed. The owner gutted much of the interior, removing some modern upgrades, with plans to restore it as closely as possible to the original structure. The most fascinating interior bank vault still contains a huge safe that remains locked, and the combination has been lost over the years. The contents remain a mystery but the owner hopes to find a safe expert who can open it.

Those in Windom regularly enjoyed seeing the restoration, which of course has seen its ups and downs, some weather related. Historic restoration requires sympathetic knowledge and repair techniques.