At Dream Construction NYC, as we work on brownstone projects in Brooklyn, we come across a lot of questions from our clients who want to understand the brownstone repair and brownstone restoration projects that are being done in their homes. As you are renovating your home, it is usual and even suggested that you get involved in your brownstone home projects to be more familiar with the steps and to make sure you are getting quality work delivered to you. Here are top 10 questions that we usually come across at Dream Construction NYC from our clients and our answers for them:
What are The Common Issues Found In A Brownstone That Needs Restoration Or Repair?
Some of the common issues found in a brownstone that needs repair are damaged masonry, water damage, cracks or holes in brownstone facades or brownstone stoops, and deteriorated or damaged cornices. Some repair work might also be needed in ironworks such as stoop railings, fences, and window grills. For brownstones to be fully restored, large sections of the brownstone facades or stoops are usually damaged or the entire facade or stoops have not been worked on for decades.
How are Brownstone Facades And Brownstone Stoops Repaired Or Restored At A High Level?
For Brownstone facade and brownstone stoop restoration work, the entire damaged layer of the brownstone is removed or chipped off to get to the solidstone that exists under the brownstone. Following this, there is a two-step stucco application where a scratch coat is added for binding purposes followed by new layers of brownstone layers. For brownstone
repair work such as facade repair or brownstone stoop repair work, which is a spot target treatment, a lot of patchwork is involved. The damaged areas are chipped off and new layers are added which requires extra attention to detail to match the brownstone color and texture.
What is a Typical Timeline For A Brownstone Repair Or Restoration Job?
The typical timeline for a total brownstone restoration particularly for facade restoration takes up to 6 – 9 months whereas for stoop restoration takes about 2-4 months. However, for repair work, the timeline is much shorter depending on the scope of the repair project.
What are Some Of The Benefits Of Restoring A Brownstone Compared To Replacing It And Vice Versa?
Restoring a brownstone facade or brownstone stoop is a time-consuming and costly project but it will renew the charm and beauty of the building. It will also make your
brownstone long-lasting and as a result, will require less upkeep over the years. It will also increase the value of your brownstone home. Brownstone repair work however is a spot treatment at an affordable price point. If you pick a good enough contractor who can match the color and the textures during the patchwork of the damaged section, it will not be obvious that the patchwork has been done and the result is a seamless brownstone layer. If you want to choose an affordable option, especially for brownstones without big damages or deterioration, brownstone repair work is suggested rather than a full and complete restoration.
Can the Brownstone Restoration Or Repair Project Be Done In Phases?
Yes, brownstone restoration or repair projects can be done in phases.
How Will The Entryway Be Accessed During Stoop Projects?
The stoop area will be inaccessible for small periods in the restoration process. It is recommended that you use the ground floor gate underneath the stoop during these periods.
What Work Is Involved In Repainting A Cornice?
For Brownstone cornice work, the cornice is usually scraped for all paint that was previously there. Then the repairs are done after which the entire cornice is primed and painted.
How are Brownstone Buildings Washed And Cleaned?
Brownstone buildings are typically washed and cleaned through power washing. For older or weak brownstones, hand washing is a better and safer alternative method. But when dealing with some stubborn stains in the brownstones, a diluted muriatic acid solution can be used to spot and treat the stains.
What Should I Do With Deteriorating And Rusty Ironworks In My Stoop Rail, Fence, Or Windows?
The intricate and detailed brownstone ironworks that exist in stoop railings, fences, and windows in brownstones need to be regularly maintained so that they don’t become too deteriorated. If ironworks become rusted enough the old paint needs to be stripped off completely, have sanding done, and primers and fresh coats of paint need to be applied.
How Can I Budget For My Brownstone Project?
A brownstone project estimate may involve costs for material, labor, permits, and unexpected costs. We suggest reaching out to Dream Construction NYC to get free project estimates and prioritize important repairs first. Dream Construction NYC provides reasonable affordable price points for brownstone projects.