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Historic Preservation and Restoration
When it comes to structures with historic significance, the beauty of stained glass or wood-framed windows and the color of brick and natural stone are important architectural and aesthetic features. Preserving these features and others is critical to maintaining a valuable element of our culture. Unfortunately, as a result of time-related weathering, many of these structures are in need of serious repair.
Preservation and restoration requires a commitment to detail and a dedication to quality craftsmanship. Structural Preservation Systems (SPS) understands these needs and is a complete resource for those entrusted with preservation.
We work closely with owners, architects and conservators to investigate, select and locate products and materials to produce the most historically accurate repair. Additionally, before commencing work, SPS performs mock-ups and tests to ensure that the methods and schedules selected are the optimal solution. Our commitment to the project extends to adherence, as required, to the guidelines for historic structures established by the Secretary of the Interior.
Preservation of Architectural Elements
- Masonry and Stone
- Mortar
- Limestone, Sandstone, Granite and Marble
- Terra Cotta
- Brownstone and Serpentine
- Stucco
- Steel
- Timber Frames and Supports
- Carpentry and Millwork
- Wood and Metal Windows and Doors
- Weather Stripping
- Cleaning Techniques
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Checklist of Choosing a Masonry Contractor
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Related Articles
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From Eyesore to Opportunity: Adapting an Older Building for a New Use
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Applicator, Summer 2008
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It is inevitable that structures will age and outgrow their original intended function. With changes in technology and lifestyle, construction design is constantly updated to meet modern demands and older structures are left in the wake of change. Those sensitive to history may prefer to restore older structures to their former glory, however, associated costs often make this plan unrealistic. An alternate concept is adaptive reuse - a process of retrofitting buildings for new uses, which allows structures to retain their historic integrity, while providing for the occupants' modern needs.
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Unique Repair Strategies Ensure Longevity for National Landmark Lighthouse
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Revitalization e-Digest, May 2008
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About one-mile out from the shore of the Chesapeake Bay stands the nation's last operational screw-pile foundation lighthouse in its original location - Maryland's Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. The 43-foot-tall lighthouse has withstood the most tremendous weather conditions of the Bay and South River since 1875. Located about four miles from Annapolis, Md., the lighthouse is a beacon of safety for vessels traveling the bay.
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Electrochemical Treatments on Historic Steel Frame Buildings
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The American Institute of Architects, March 2008
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Corrosion is present in historic buildings which utilize iron or steel in construction and can cause a variety of failures leading to masonry damage, the loss of original fabric, and even death. Traditional repair techniques can temporarily slow the corrosion process but do not provide a long term solution for corrosion.
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Maintaining Masonry - Repair Beyond Caulk
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The Construction Specifier, February 2008
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The image of any building constructed with masonry typically conjures thoughts of a structure designed for permanence and durability - a construction so sound that it will last through many decades. After all, masonry structures dating to ancient times still stand tall in many places all over the world. Yet over time, even the most soundly designed and constructed masonry buildings require some attention. Extreme weather conditions and the general effects of time may lead to a need for masonry repair. Or, in some cases, poor building design or construction may be the cause.
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Preserving the Past: Historic Repair Requires Informed Approach
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Design Cost Data E•News, October 2007
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Whether the job calls for rehabilitating a 1920s-era high-rise structure in a city's downtown or restoring a Founding father's estate to its original luster, historic preservation projects call for a great deal of expertise.
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St. Mark's Church Historic Restoration (PDF)
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Concrete Repair Bulletin, January/February 2007
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Built in 1888, St. Mark's Church in Catonsville, MD, is a treasured place for many in the community. Generations of families have called the church home and have come to appreciate the rustic charm of the structure.
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Renovation of Baltimore's Historic Hippodrome Theater (PDF)
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Concrete Constuction, November 2004
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Dealing with unexpected job conditions midway through a project is a challenge for any contractor, especially when there's not enough time or money to make the changes. Because of its extensive experience and by using creativity and management skills, Structural Preservation Systems, Inc. (SPS), one of the specialty contractors for Baltimore's historic Hippodrome Theater renovation, was able to meet the challenge head-on.
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Encore
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Building Design and Construction, April 1, 2004
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In Baltimore, ambitious renovation and expansion projects have the spotlights shining anew on three venerable performing arts venues. Timing is everything in the theater and performing arts, as well as in building design and construction.
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Post-Tensioned Retrofitting Maintains Landmark's Aesthetics (PDF)
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Concrete International, April 2003
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When selected by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to renovate Fallingwater - one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous designs - VSL (a post-tensioning contractor) became part of a team focused on saving the ailing structure.
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Saving Fallingwater
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This Old House Magazine, January/February 2003
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Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright"s masterpiece, has been featured on a U.S. postage stamp, on the cover of Time magazine, and in perhaps a shelf-full of coffee table books. Too bad it wasn"t built properly.
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Miami's Freedom Tower Shines Again (PDF)
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Concrete International, October 1, 2002
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Late 1997 was marked by an act of mercy, embellished by a touch of irony, as members of the very community who first benefited from the Freedom Tower's benevolence stepped in to save the building. Shortly thereafter, detailed plans were unveiled to turn the Freedom Tower into a living monument to the Cuban struggle for freedom.
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