SEDL / STP / STP1444-EB / STP11463S

Emergency Repairs for Historic Facades

Pulley, DM
Engineer, Wiss, Janney Elstner Associates, Inc., Twinsburg, OH
Project Engineer, Engineering Diagnostics, Inc., Cleveland, OH

Robison, EC
Professional Engineer and Architectual Historian, Kent, OH
Professor, Kent State University, Kent, OH

Pages: 15    Published: Jan 2004

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Abstract

Facade inspection and resulting interventions may alter the integrity of historic properties. Therefore, consultants must give careful consideration to historic preservation regulations and guidelines when performing facade inspections and implementing emergency and short-term repairs. Unsafe conditions identified through facade inspection should be remedied without delay to protect the public. However, the accelerated project schedule should not preclude following historic preservation procedures as some interventions may drastically alter a facade's appearance and historic significance, and severely hinder future restoration.

Mandatory historic preservation requirements may include Section 106 review for federally funded or licensed projects and local landmarks commission or architectural review board approval prior to implementing facade repairs. Enforcement levels vary between communities as do the definitions of “emergency,” “alteration,” and “ordinary maintenance.” An industry-wide guideline for emergency repairs to historic facades may safeguard building owners, consultants, and communities against undesirable delays, fines, and losses.