Terra Cotta Restoration for Commercial Buildings
As the leading expert in terra cotta restoration, Bond Façade Services is committed to preserving the grandeur and historical significance of commercial assets.
Terra Cotta Façade Services in Milwaukee
Terra cotta, an enriched molded clay, has been used as building material primarily during the 19th century up to the 1940s as either load-bearing capacity material or as a decorative veneer. The surface of terra cotta units can be finished with a glaze or no glaze, which simulates a variety of natural stone finishes. Typically, terra cotta is hollow cast to reduce its overall weight. In addition, internal webbing enhances load-bearing capacity and provides a point for an anchoring system.
- Cleaning and Surface Restoration
- Crack and Spall Repair
- Repointing and Rebuilding
- Color Matching and Stain Removal
- Waterproofing and Sealant Application
- Anchorage and Structural Reinforcement
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Replication and Custom Fabrication
The Battle Against Moisture
Terra cotta is particularly susceptible to moisture-related issues. Over time, prolonged exposure to moisture causes cracking, spalling and erosion, compromising the structural integrity and visual allure of terra cotta façades. We implement modern waterproofing techniques, advanced sealants and breathable coatings to shield terra cotta from the damaging effects of moisture. Our techniques allow humidity to be released, rather than trapped.
Spalling and Cracking Repair
Terra cotta restoration addresses localized spalling and cracking through specialized patching materials and localized replacement when necessary. When pieces are required to be replaced, the terra cotta is removed and shipped out to the manufacturer for reproduction, and typically takes several weeks for the return of the newly constructed pieces. The newly crafted pieces are installed using stainless steel anchoring and modern flashing techniques, ensuring the restoration's longevity and preventing premature failure.
Terra Cotta Restoration: Ambassador Hotel Milwaukee
2308 W Wisconsin Ave,
Milwaukee, WI 53233
Bond Façade Services worked on the historic Ambassador Hotel in Milwaukee. The hotel is an iconic historic hotel that boasts a distinctive Art Deco architectural style. Built in 1927, the Ambassador Hotel showcases the characteristic features of Art Deco design, which was popular during the 1920s and 1930s. The façade of the hotel features geometric patterns, bold lines, and decorative motifs, all of which are typical of the Art Deco movement. Bond Façade Services’ historic building restoration aided in maintaining the building’s beauty.
View MoreTerra Cotta Restoration: Milwaukee's Cudahy Tower
925 E. Wells St,
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Bond Façade Services helped maintain the notable Cudahy Tower apartment building in downtown Milwaukee, across the street from the Milwaukee Art Museum. Recognizable by its' white glaze brick and terra cotta ornamentation, it is a staple on the Milwaukee lakefront. Developed in 1907 by the historical Milwaukee figure Patrick Cudahy, the Cudahy Tower apartment building is one of the city's most notable structures from its time. Later, his two sons added an adjacent apartment tower, further enhancing its significance.
The Cudahy Tower boasts a beautiful neoclassical architectural style that utilizes its large scale and simplicity to grab the attention of passing Milwaukee residents as well as making it feel like home to the many that occupy it's units. Bond Façade Services’ historic building restoration aided in maintaining the building’s beauty.
View More
