Masonry Preservation
Harbor Waterproofing Services LLC defines the standard for technical excellence in the restoration of New York's building envelopes. Our specialized teams manage comprehensive masonry preservation projects across the five boroughs, prioritizing structural stability and historic character through veteran expertise and precise execution.
Preservation Techniques
Facade Restoration
Our comprehensive facade restoration programs address both structural and aesthetic deterioration.
- Detailed masonry mapping
- Localized structural reinforcement
- Comprehensive cleaning and washing
- Efflorescence removal protocols
Brick Replacement
Precision replacement of damaged masonry units to restore structural reliability and visual cohesion.
- Selective spalled brick removal
- Matching historical mortar hardness
- Custom color-matching of units
- Proper mechanical bonding
Lintel Replacement
Stabilizing masonry openings by replacing corroded steel supports with modern durable solutions.
- Removal of oxidized steel lintels
- Installation of galvanized units
- New thru-wall flashing systems
- End-dam installation for drainage
Shelf Angle Replacement
Crucial structural maintenance for high-rise buildings requiring specialized support systems.
- Corroded angle removal
- New stainless or galvanized steel
- Installation of expansion joints
- Sealant and soft joint updates
Parapet Reconstruction
Rebuilding unstable roof perimeters to protect against wind loads and water infiltration.
- Full or partial disassembly
- Coping stone reset or replacement
- Integrated roof-to-wall flashing
- Vertical brick tie reinforcement
Corner Reconstruction
Reinforcing building corners prone to bulging and structural separation in urban settings.
- Removal of buckled masonry
- Mechanical anchor installation
- Vertical plumb alignment correction
- Quoin stone restoration
Balcony Reconstruction
Ensuring the safety and use of exterior balconies through advanced structural concrete repair.
- Structural deck patching
- Railing anchorage reinforcement
- High-performance waterproof coating
- Soffit repair and finishing
Pointing (Repointing)
Restoring mortar integrity to prevent moisture penetration and preserve the building envelope.
- Mechanical joint raking
- Custom historic mortar blending
- Deep tuckpointing techniques
- Visual character preservation
Sealant Installation
Expert application of expansion joint systems for long-term flexibility and water management.
- Joint cleaning and prep
- Precision backer rod placement
- Silicone or urethane application
- Sky-facing joint protection
Terra Cotta Restoration
Specialized care for NYC's historic ornamental terra cotta facade elements.
- Jahn mortar patching repairs
- Loose unit pinning and anchoring
- Glaze restoration treatments
- Replacement unit fabrication
Stone Restoration
Preserving limestone, brownstone, and natural stone facades using artisanal techniques.
- Dutchman stone repairs
- Natural stone unit replacement
- Consolidation of friable surfaces
- Atmospheric pollutant cleaning
Stone Veneer Installation
Providing protective and aesthetic stone layering for modern and historic envelopes.
- Secure mechanical anchoring
- Vapor barrier integration
- Mortar joint sealing
- Seismic-rated installation
Facade Cleaning
Gentle yet effective removal of NYC dirt and carbon pollutants to reveal architectural beauty.
- Low-pressure water misting
- Biodegradable chemical cleaning
- Steam cleaning applications
- Stain and paint removal
Why Preservation Matters
Proactive masonry preservation is critical for the structural integrity and long-term viability of NYC real estate. Adhering to Local Law and Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) requirements is more than just compliance—it is essential for public safety and risk mitigation. Effective water management, achieved through professional restoration and precision pointing, prevents long-term moisture decay that threatens the building envelope. By prioritizing these systems today, we protect the historic character of New York's iconic architecture while significantly extending the operational life of the building exterior.
NYC PRESERVATION EXPERTISE
Harbor Waterproofing provides specialized engineering-grade masonry preservation across New York's complex architectural landscape. We partner with architects and forensic engineers to maintain structural integrity while navigating the unique demands of historic landmark buildings. Our crews are experts in phased implementation within occupied spaces, delivering durable, code-compliant waterproofing systems and facade restoration across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
MANHATTAN
BROOKLYN
STATEN ISLAND
QUEENS
THE BRONX
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The historic facade restoration was executed with surgical precision. Harbor's crew navigated Local Law 11 complexities with ease, securing our building’s envelope while honoring its original masonry craft.
Property Manager, Manhattan Landmark
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From terra cotta repair to shelf angle replacement, Harbor’s technical depth is unmatched. They coordinated perfectly with our architectural team, delivering a phased preservation plan that saved the building from long-term decay.
Board President, Brooklyn Heights
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Masonry preservation in an occupied NYC building is a logistical hurdle. Harbor handled our repointing and parapet reconstruction without a single tenant complaint. True professionals of the NYC skyline.
Facility Director, Long Island City
Request a Site Assessment
Schedule an on-site evaluation today to identify and address any masonry or waterproofing issues before they compromise your building's structural integrity.