Bethesda Lutheran Church in Dresser, WI, established in 1872, recently underwent a comprehensive church restoration led by Building Restoration Corporation. Our team combined precision metal fabrication with expert masonry to edify this church as a lasting religious landmark. This collaboration between our metal shop and masonry teams resulted in a project we’re truly proud of.
Bethesda Lutheran Church, with its rich history spanning over a century, required a significant restoration process to address deteriorating mortar, failing brickwork, and weather-worn architectural elements. Our work focused on stabilizing the structure, restoring masonry details, and ensuring long-term protection against moisture and environmental wear.
This project included masonry repair, steeple restoration, flashing installation, and waterproofing to preserve the church’s structural integrity and historic character.
The Restoration Process Scope of Work
The restoration encompassed three primary components:
1. Masonry Repair & Repointing
Exposure to the elements had led to mortar deterioration and brick damage. Our masonry team:
- Removed and repointed deteriorated mortar joints to reinforce structural integrity.
- Replaced damaged bricks to ensure a cohesive appearance.
- Applied water-resistant treatments to protect against future moisture issues.
2. Steeple Repair & Sheet Metal Work
The steeple, a focal point of the church’s architecture, required meticulous restoration. Our metalwork specialists:
- Fabricated and installed a new sheet metal steeple, honoring the original design while enhancing durability.
- Installed new step flashings to prevent water ingress at critical junctions.
3. Waterproofing & Structural Protection
To safeguard the church against moisture-related deterioration, we:
- Applied a high-quality masonry water repellent to the exterior surfaces.
- Upgraded flashing systems to effectively channel water away.
- Addressed areas of steel corrosion, implementing protective measures to prolong structural health.
Challenges & Solutions
Restoring a historic church demands careful planning to respect its heritage while upgrading its structural components. Key challenges included:
- Material Matching: Sourcing materials that matched the original construction to maintain historical accuracy.
- Elevated Work: Utilizing specialized equipment to safely perform steeple repairs at significant heights.
- Moisture Mitigation: Implementing solutions to address and prevent water damage, a common issue in aging structures.
Project Outcome
The successful restoration of Bethesda Lutheran Church in Dresser, WI ensures this historic place of worship continues to serve its congregation and community. The combined efforts in masonry and steeple restoration have revitalized the church’s appearance and fortified its structural integrity for future generations.
Expert Church Restoration Services
At Building Restoration Corporation, we specialize in church restoration and historic preservation, providing expert tuckpointing, brick cleaning, sealant replacement and masonry waterproofing to maintain structural integrity and protect against aging and the elements. If your building requires professional restoration, contact us to learn how we can help preserve its legacy.