Windows

Above: Brick storefront repair examples

contractor will understand how to

address specific issues including proper cutting techniques, finding appropriate matching brick or stone units for replacement, formulating a correct mortar mix, and tooling of mortar correctly. • When repair is required, all measures should be taken to preserve existing materials. Where significant repair or replacement is necessary, use historic photographs to guide the restoration of piers, facades, parapets, cornices and decorative details. For significant projects, it is strongly recommended to consult an architect with proven experience in historic architecture.

When repair or replacement is not supported by documentation, there should be no attempt to create architectural elements that are not true to your building—or create a false

history. Instead, these new elements can be designed as a simple and contemporary element that does not detract from the original architectural features. • Clean brick and stone using only nonabrasive methods as prescribed by best practices. • Do not paint masonry buildings. Paint can actually trap moisture in the wall and create an on-going maintenance issue, which if not managed, could cause damage that is expensive to repair. In an instance where painting is unavoidable, use a breathable paint product designed for masonry.

See also the Preservation Brief on Repointing Mortar Joints in Historic Masonry Buildings, Dangers of Abrasive Cleaning to Historic Buildings, then contact the KNA Design Committee for more information.