SOLUTION

After a thorough investigation of the exterior terra cotta, windows, plaza, and roofing, including materials testing conducted in WJE's in-house laboratory, it was determined that a significant portion of the building facade and plaza was in disrepair. In total, nearly 7,000 terra cotta units were removed and replaced; another 2,000 terra cotta units were removed and reused; and 4,000 units were repaired in place. In combination with the terra cotta work, nearly 7,500 lineal feet of shelf angle repairs and new structural supports were added. To blend the new with the old, the entire terra cotta facade and plaza were restoration cleaned. The original windows had been previously replaced in the early 1990s and were known for water infiltration. WJE developed a historically sensitive repair solution of sealant to maintain the appearance of the existing windows while improving the window performance. The slate and granite plaza that encompasses the city block around the building was also in disrepair. Plaza repairs included concrete structural repairs, repointing, isolated slate and granite replacement, and restoration of the eight bronze, historic lamp posts. All of the roof levels on the building also were removed and replaced, and a new building lighting system was installed.