BEST RESTORATION/REHABILITATION/MAINTENANCE PROJECT
US Capitol Building West
Local 1 Maryland/Virginia/District of Columbia
Signatory Contractor: Lorton Stone, LLC
The US Capitol is not just a symbol of democracy – it is a living testament to the craftsmanship, artistry, and dedication of generations past. Over the years, the Capitol has undergone numerous restoration efforts, and in December 2023, the restoration of the West Wing was completed. This achievement required extraordinary skill from BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC craftworkers.
The scope of this project was vast – encompassing the cleaning, repair, and restoration of some of the country’s most iconic stonework. The team worked tirelessly to clean and restore a variety of materials – sandstone, limestone, marble, and granite – removing years of heavy soiling, biological growth, rust and copper stains. This required specialized techniques and cleaning detergents tailored to each stone type to ensure their integrity.
The restoration involved intricate repairs, including joint preparation and repointing, mortar patching, crack repairs, and the reinstallation of large cornice pieces that shifted during an earthquake. Specialized work was done on the ornate pediment sculpture, while deteriorated stone elements, including intricately carved scrolls, acanthus leaves, and fluted columns, were replaced with newly carved pieces. Laser scanning and 3D modeling were used to ensure the new elements matched the original carvings.
In addition to
these complex repairs, the team ensured that replacement stones matched the existing materials used in the Capitol’s construction. The dedication to “like for like” restoration ensured that the building’s historic character was preserved to the highest standards.
The project required unwavering dedication and resolve, particularly when faced with challenges such as tight schedules, nighttime working hours, noise and operational restrictions, and logistical constraints. Despite these hurdles, the team’s perseverance and commitment to excellence resulted in a seamless restoration that brought the West Wing’s façade back to its original splendor.