Present and Future

Why more work on the Basilica of Saint Mary?

Major restoration work began in early 1990 with the replacement of the original copper roof and saving the structure. From the 1940's on, the interior suffered devastating water damage and structural demise. A $10.5 million restoration was completed in 1998. In 2000, the building was still leaking and further investigation revealed high humidity, which caused condensation and damage on interior surfaces.

McGough Construction and Miller Dunwiddie Architects assessed the building exterior and found that the mortar joints needed re-pointing. After thorough examination, areas around the windows and old caulked repairs were failing. Masonry in the attic was saturated and church walls needed to be sealed to prevent future damage.

In 2003, repairing the masonry was the next step in the ongoing restoration. Windows were repaired and resealed, the soft brick on the bell towers interiors were lined to prevent moisture infiltration. With these discoveries a Facilities Assessment Committee was established and created a 3 year and future preventative maintenance, restoration and renovation plan for the Basilica. The restored roof is inspected annually to identify any repairs that might be needed. Annual inspections are conducted campus wide to assess needs and set priorities and budgets.

Re-Pointing Mortar Joints

For uniformity and longevity, all masonry joints in the church were re-pointed.

• Re-pointing, or "tuck pointing" is the removal of surface mortar to a depth that is at least twice the width of the joint or until sound mortar is found. The joint is then re-pointed with a compatible mortar.
• Since joints on horizontal surfaces are more prone to deterioration, they are often caulked with sealant instead. To extend the life of these joints, a common practice in traditional masonry techniques is to install a lead joint insert, essentially a "tee" shape set in a bed of sealant.

Window Improvements and Maintenance

Exterior storm windows were original and actually preceded the stained glass (interior finishes were gradually added for many years after the Basilica opened). Preservation of the stained glass involved:

• Replacement of glazing putty and perimeter sealants
• Installation of new clear plate glass exterior windows, like the one on the rose window above the main entrance

Due to the extent of this work, new clear plate glass was added, like that on the rose window above the main entrance. These clear exterior windows have several benefits:

• Extend the life of stained glass due to exterior cleaning and re-cementing
• Vent airspace between the storm and stained glass windows to protect against heat build-up that can cause buckling of the stained glass
• Allow more light through stained glass into the interior and allows stained glass to be seen from the exterior.