Terracotta is one of the most common building materials on older Chicago brownstones. It was very popular in in the 1800s and was prized for its beauty. Original home owners often chose terracotta because it allowed builders to add elaborate details to exteriors. Unfortunately, it is also a material that is susceptible to deterioration, so professional terracotta replacement in Chicago IL is common. It is not a DIY project because technicians need to identify all damages and use specialized techniques to re-create original details.
Terracotta Has a Long History
One of the reasons that terracotta is found on so many older buildings is that it has been used by builders for centuries. The word terracotta means “fired earth” and refers to the process used to turn clay into a durable, versatile product. During the early 18th Century glazed terracotta tiles were often hung on steel frames to imitate elegant masonry walls. That look is still found on many historic Chicago buildings, but they are not usually in good shape. As a result, there is now a demand for expert terracotta replacement in Chicago IL.
It Can Be Difficult to Repair Terracotta
Chicago masonry renovation contractors are always in demand due the sheer number of older terracotta buildings that require attention. They also stay busy because the work must be done by experienced, highly trained experts. Professionals inspect buildings and then identify any needed repairs. When replacing terracotta, they use modern materials that replicate the architectural qualities of the original masonry and ensure that colors harmonize with surrounding surfaces.
Professionals Can Faithfully Restore Details
Building owners who want precise terracotta repairs and replacement often reach out to renovation specialists via sites like website domain. Company websites include a “Contact Us” option that lets customers reach experts specializing in historic building restoration. These craftsmen use unique methods to ensure that finished results faithfully replicate original surfaces. For example, specialists carefully remove significant elements, catalog their positions, and then make repairs. Technicians often work with terracotta manufacturers to create exact replicas of elements, including color molting, age distress, and variations in colors.
Chicago residents who need to restore historic terracotta building surfaces rely on masonry preservation contractors. These specialists have the training and experience to safely repair and replace older terracotta. They are also able to replicate the look of original architectural details.
