Project Challenge:
When a 500-pound cornice element fell approximately 40 feet
to the sidewalk after an extremely harsh winter of heavy rains,
snow and several freeze-thaw cycles, the church looked to Klein
and Hoffman (K&H) to stabilize the north facade and
return this stone masonry landmark back to its status as the
cornerstone of the local community.
Project Solution:
K&H designed an integral lattice support system composed
of lumber and tie-rods to prevent additional pieces from falling
to the ground. It was critical that the front doors of the church
remained accessible at all times during construction.
Following the emergency stabilization, K&H proceeded with
the reconstruction of the north facade. Work included
developing detailed drawings of the facade and cornice elements
in need of replacement, reconstructing the badly deteriorated
masonry beyond the stone face, and the installation of a new
anchorage system to secure the face stone to the masonry bearing
wall behind it.
The 1950's portico was also removed to improve the aesthetics
of the church. K&H later performed an inspection and developed
a condition assessment report of the bell tower and the balance
of the building. Bell tower restoration work, including a permanent
structural stabilization system in the bell tower, is anticipated
to begin in the spring of 2007.
OWNER: Church of St. Raphael - Holy Angels
CLIENT: Diocesan Office of Worship
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