Bell Atwater Building

We designed and installed a ringlock scaffold to provide access to the building façades for the restoration work. A loading platform was also installed behind the scaffolding to store and handle the stone required for the work. Thanks to the modularity and high stability of the ringlock system, the scaffold adapted perfectly to the site’s specific requirements. The wide, unobstructed platforms facilitated worker movement and access to the walls.

The masonry joints throughout the building were completely removed and repointed. Repointing the stone veneer restored the façades’ uniform appearance, improved the building’s watertightness and helped protect the structure from freeze-thaw damage. This essential work will help preserve the building for many years to come while enhancing the original character and beauty of its masonry.

Because the entire building is made of stone, various repair methods were used, depending on the condition of each individual stone. All repair techniques were employed, including injection, repair mortar, and dutchman repairs. Stones that were too severely damaged were removed and replaced rather than repaired. Each piece was numbered and inspected to determine the most appropriate intervention. The new stones for the portico were shaped by our Ducharme Quarry using St. Marc stone, while the replacement stones for the façade were cut directly on site by our masons.

A section of the membrane behind the stonework was removed to correct a water infiltration issue that was damaging the stone. Two angle irons were cut and repositioned with additional spacing to prevent water from accumulating there again. The angle irons were then regalvanized before being put back in place. New anchors were also installed on the steel columns located high on one of the façades. These anchors secured the stone to the steel structure, helping limit movement and reduce the risk of cracking.