SEDL / STP / STP1180-EB / STP19630S

Deterioration and Stabilization of Berea Sandstone on the Hamilton County Courthouse

Herget, FA
Professional Engineer, ARSEE Engineers, Noblesville, IN

Crooks, RW
President, ARSEE Engineers, Noblesville, IN

Pages: 14    Published: Jan 1993

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Abstract

A rehabilitation program is underway for the 114 year old Hamilton County Courthouse (Indiana). The exterior masonry of the Courthouse is composed of Berea Sandstone and hydraulically pressed face brick. Poor details and workmanship along with improper maintenance have led to the extensive deterioration of the exterior masonry. Much of the sandstone is delaminating in thin layers and falling from the building. This is believed to have been caused by cyclical freezing of the saturated stone. Repair documents have been prepared utilizing proven methods and materials. These repairs are discussed in detail.