Best Practices

Restoration and
Existing Construction

Historic and existing masonry buildings have common issues that architects, engineers, conservators, contractors, and owners are often challenged with evaluating and addressing. Historic generally refers to buildings 50 years of age or greater with significance architecturally or culturally.

Thoughtfully and appropriately designed repair and restoration projects can preserve the integrity of the masonry building and continue its life for future decades. From a sustainability perspective, the greenest building is the one that already exists.

With greater knowledge of masonry material properties, wall systems, condition assessments, and best practices for repair and restoration strategies, design and construction professionals can successfully develop and implement appropriate solutions for their culturally significant and existing projects.

connect with qualified RESTORATION professionals

Put your restoration projects in the hands of qualified professionals. 

Our intensive Historic Masonry Preservation Certification Program (HMPC) teaches the traditional craft skills and contemporary repair techniques required for sensitive restoration work. 

We also offer project-specific training, like Terra Cotta Restoration and Replacement, Historic Lime Mortars, Guastavino Tile Vaults, and Concrete Repair.

Specify HMPC to be sure you have highly trained, qualified restoration professionals on your project, or contact us for project specific training opportunities. 

WEBINARS

Repair and Restoration Strategies

It’s important to prioritize repairs based on the structure’s conditions and project team goals. Strategies differ per project and can be selected from a variety of repair options.

Photo: Eric J. Nordstrom

Read our article on Historic Masonry Restoration Best Practices for information on:
  • Historic masonry materials
  • Masonry wall systems – mass, transitional, curtain/barrier, cavity
  • Condition assessment
  • Common deterioration
  • Repair and restoration options
    • Protect horizontal surfaces
    • Repair, replace, or protect steel
    • Install water management flashings
    • Stabilize or install supplemental anchorage
    • Repair or replace masonry materials
  • Qualified masons and craftworkers

Material Information

Our restoration pages contain technical information and inspiration for a variety of masonry and tile materials.

Components

Helpful Resources

Here are some commonly referenced standards and resources that you may find useful in developing appropriate repair and restoration strategies for your projects. 

For material specific resources, check out our restoration material assembly pages.

LET’S BUILD RESPONSIBLY.

Work with our multi-disciplinary team to help you deliver high-performing projects.