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Hanover, Md. — Jan. 29, 2016 — More than 20 specifiers from leading restoration design firms in the New York City area recently participated in a hands-on AIA-credited workshop from Cathedral Stone Products, Inc., hosted by West New York Restoration Products of CT in the Bronx.
“Quality results on masonry restoration projects depend on proper system design, quality materials, as well as knowledge of restoration techniques. That’s why we put so much emphasis on specifying, training, and applicator certification,” said Joe Sette, CEO, Cathedral Stone Products.
The half-day workshop included an in-depth overview by Director of Sales Steven Cortazzo that detailed common problems of aging stone and masonry.
“In the New York area, we see a lot of deteriorating structures, and discoloration and staining of concrete and soft stone such as limestone, terra cotta, and marble. We see masonry with fractures, displacement, bond separation, and voids, and facades that need pinning or reinforcement.
"Cathedral Stone Products offers the systems approach to remediate all of the challenges a restoration project may present with the prime objective to restore the integrity of materials and the underlying value of the real estate,” he said.
Cortazzo emphasized that restoration is generally less expensive than replacement if at least 50 percent of the original stone or masonry structure remains — and it may be the best or only option over large areas or where access is difficult or limited.
The company’s systems were instrumental in restoring such landmarks as the Empire State Building, the Javits Center, the Washington Monument, Ellis Island, and the U.S. Capitol.
During the workshop, participants applied Cathedral Stone’s restoration mortars to actual stone replicas.
Workshop participants also watched Cathedral Stone Products Technical Advisory Team members Ken Saul and Dan Perakes demonstrate specialized cleaning and paint removal products, and learned how moldable mortars can replicate complex architectural details such as lion heads and finials.
In addition, Opus Architecture principal Michelle Quartin demonstrated how artisans can replicate the tone and texture of natural stone, or restore the look of discolored or weather-stained stone or masonry façades using color-matched coatings and painting techniques. The in-depth workshop qualified for continuing education credits from the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
For more information about Cathedral Stone products, visit www.cathedralstone.com.
