Do you follow historic preservation guidelines and standards?

ESI is experienced in executing masonry restoration and waterproofing projects that comply with recognized historic preservation guidelines and standards. For commercial, institutional, municipal, and condominium properties in Massachusetts and the New England region, this typically involves adherence to standards such as the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and relevant local or state historic commission requirements.

Meeting these guidelines helps preserve historic and architectural value while ensuring that any interventions are sensitive to original materials, methods, and appearance. ESI’s approach incorporates careful evaluation, mock-ups or test panels when appropriate, and coordination with consultants or historic commissions when a project demands. We focus on using suitable materials—such as compatible mortars for repointing historic brick or stone, and replacement units that match the original in composition, texture, and color. Proper installation detailing is critical, especially considering New England’s challenging climate, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture conditions, which can accelerate deterioration if inappropriate repair techniques or incompatible products are used.

Our restoration planning process frequently involves non-destructive investigation, thorough inspection, and documentation of existing conditions. This supports correct diagnosis of deterioration causes, informs material selection, and ensures repairs will not compromise structural integrity, waterproofing performance, or the building’s historic significance. ESI’s team is also attentive to long-term maintenance and protection, helping property stakeholders plan for sustainable stewardship of historic assets over time.

Whether the project involves a historic institutional campus, a municipal building, or a multi-unit condominium with century-old masonry, ESI is committed to restoration methods that uphold industry-recognized preservation standards and the unique needs of New England’s weather-exposed structures.