Husted Hall Exterior Rehabilitation

An evaluation of the exterior envelope of Husted Hall identified areas of distress and deterioration of many of its trim components, especially the terracotta components at the roof cornice level and architrave and pediment of the primary entry temple front. These terracotta elements had been subject to significant amounts of moisture related degradation primarily attributable to the detailing and component assembly that allowed for significant amounts of water to penetrate these systems and damage the terracotta through freeze/thaw action.

This deterioration was leading to failures that threatened the safety of pedestrians below. This project was undertaken to remove and replace these deteriorating terracotta elements while protecting and stabilizing adjacent terracotta components. The project team worked together to develop potential solutions and experimented with replacement materials. Ultimately, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) was selected. The selection of GFRC and the use of molds made directly from original terracotta elements was creative and appropriate for the project and was supported by New York State OPRHP. The design and construction of the GFRC elements was performed in a manner that enhances the appearance, accuracy of detail, longevity, and safety of new components and adjacent original elements. The end result matches color, texture, details, profiles, and layout of the original building elements.