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News and Insights on the Masonry Repair and Maintenance of Institutional, Commercial, and Condominium Buildings in
Eastern Massachusetts
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In this issue, our
Case Study article describes Abbot's recent
completion of a multi-phase restoration project of a 4-story brick and concrete building for a local condominium association. By executing the project in phases, the owner can optimize cash flow over the entire timeline of the project. In our
Masonry 101 article, we describe what a "light well" is and its attributes.
We trust that you will benefit from the information provided in this publication. If you have any comments or questions, or would like an estimate on a masonry repair project, we can be reached at 617-445-0274 or www.abbotbuilding.com.
Sincerely,
Michael Norman, President
Abbot Building Restoration Company, Inc.
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Case Study
Abbot Completes Multi-Phase Masonry Restoration Project for Local Condominium Association
Abbot recently completed a multi-phase masonry project at a four-story brick and concrete condominium building at 1871-1875 Commonwealth Avenue located at the corner of Chestnut Hill Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue in Brighton, MA. The condominium is situated in the new Brighton Historic District, which requires
compliance with all of the District's historic guidelines.
Phases 1/1A - 2012-2013
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1871-1875 Commonwealth Avenue, Brighton, MA
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Abbot completed the initial phases of the project back in 2012
focusing on the Chestnut Hill Avenue side of the building where repointing, stone repair, brick replacement, and caulking of the windows were performed, along with
major structural repairs to several damaged stucco porches in the rear of the building.
Over the next few years, Abbot sequenced a series of repairs to various elevations around the building to bring the entire structure up to current guidelines. The phased approach allowed the building owner to optimize cash flow over the entire timeline of the project.
Phase 2 -- 2014
The next phase of the project took place in 2014 where Abbot performed miscellaneous repointing of the brick façade, and caulking of the windows and fire escape connections on the left elevation, the rear alley and the courtyard areas.
Phase 3 -- 2015
In early 2015, Abbot repointed the brick façade and caulked the windows on the Commonwealth Avenue side including the entrance porticos. In this phase, Abbot also replaced damaged brick with matching brick and made minor repairs to the stonework.
Phase 4 - Fall 2015
Then in the Fall 2015, Abbot performed repointing, caulking, and brick replacement at the light well section in the center of the building, the rear area way on the Commonwealth Avenue side, and the wall next to the chimney.
Phase 5 - Fall 2016
Finally, in the Fall 2016, Abbot wire brushed and painted the fire escapes at the rear elevations beyond the light wells, and performed masonry repairs to the right rear wall.
Roof Inspection/Repair Contract
Abbot has established a long-term relationship with the building owner that currently includes an ongoing maintenance contract. The contract calls for Abbot to periodically examine the roof of the building and repair any defects to assure that the roof is well prepared for extreme winter weather conditions.
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Masonry 101
What is a "Light Well"
In our Case Study article, we mention that Abbot performed repairs in the "light well" section in the center of the building. Daylight is an essential part of daily life, and has a significant impact on health. Light wells can be used in buildings to bring daylight into interior areas that would be otherwise unreachable.
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Light wells allow light and air to reach what would otherwise be a dark or unventilated area in the center of a multi-story building.
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In architecture, a light well (also known as an air shaft) is an unroofed external space provided within the volume of a large building to allow light and air to reach what would otherwise be a dark or unventilated area. Light wells may be lined with glazed bricks to increase the reflection of sunlight within the space.
Light wells serve to reduce the necessity for electric lighting, add a central space within the building, and provide an internal open space for windows to give an illusion of having a view outside.
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Abbot Building Restoration Co., Inc.
28 Allerton Street, Boston, MA 02119
Tel: 617-445-0274 · Fax: 617-445-0277
www.abbotbuilding.com
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