Historic Structures - Preservation and Restoration

When it comes to structures with historic significance, the beauty of stained glass or wood-framed windows and the color of brick and natural stone are important architectural and aesthetic features. Preserving these features and others is critical to maintaining a valuable element of our culture. Unfortunately, as a result of time-related weathering, many of these structures are in need of serious repair.

Preservation and restoration requires a commitment to detail and a dedication to quality craftsmanship. Structural Preservation Systems (SPS) understands these needs and is a complete resource for those entrusted with preservation.

We work closely with owners, architects and conservators to investigate, select and locate products and materials to produce the most historically accurate repair. Additionally, before commencing work, SPS performs mock-ups and tests to ensure that the methods and schedules selected are the optimal solution. Our commitment to the project extends to adherence, as required, to the guidelines for historic structures established by the Secretary of the Interior.

Visit our Historic Case Study page for additional project reports.

Wood and Custom Millwork Shop

Our custom millwork shop can take care of all your wood repair, restoration and preservation needs ... as well as create new custom wood products for any project. If it's made of wood, we can restore it! Or replicate it!

Here's just a sample of the types of wood elements we can repair, restore or preserve ... or build from scratch:

Windows & Doors
Columns & Pilasters
Decorative Molding
Balustrades & Banisters

Call 800-899-2902 or use the contact form to find out how we can help you with your next wood project.

From Eyesore to Opportunity: Adapting an Older Building for a New Use

Applicator, Summer 2008

It is inevitable that structures will age and outgrow their original intended function. With changes in technology and lifestyle, construction design is constantly updated to meet modern demands and older structures are left in the wake of change. Those sensitive to history may prefer to restore older structures to their former glory, however, associated costs often make this plan unrealistic. An alternate concept is adaptive reuse - a process of retrofitting buildings for new uses, which allows structures to retain their historic integrity, while providing for the occupants' modern needs.

Revitalization e-Digest, May 2008

About one-mile out from the shore of the Chesapeake Bay stands the nation's last operational screw-pile foundation lighthouse in its original location - Maryland's Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. The 43-foot-tall lighthouse has withstood the most tremendous weather conditions of the Bay and South River since 1875. Located about four miles from Annapolis, Md., the lighthouse is a beacon of safety for vessels traveling the bay.

The American Institute of Architects, March 2008

Corrosion is present in historic buildings which utilize iron or steel in construction and can cause a variety of failures leading to masonry damage, the loss of original fabric, and even death. Traditional repair techniques can temporarily slow the corrosion process but do not provide a long term solution for corrosion.

The Construction Specifier, February 2008

The image of any building constructed with masonry typically conjures thoughts of a structure designed for permanence and durability - a construction so sound that it will last through many decades. After all, masonry structures dating to ancient times still stand tall in many places all over the world. Yet over time, even the most soundly designed and constructed masonry buildings require some attention. Extreme weather conditions and the general effects of time may lead to a need for masonry repair. Or, in some cases, poor building design or construction may be the cause.

Design Cost Data E•News, October 2007

Whether the job calls for rehabilitating a 1920s-era high-rise structure in a city's downtown or restoring a Founding father's estate to its original luster, historic preservation projects call for a great deal of expertise.

Concrete Repair Bulletin, January/February 2007

Built in 1888, St. Mark's Church in Catonsville, MD, is a treasured place for many in the community. Generations of families have called the church home and have come to appreciate the rustic charm of the structure.

Concrete Constuction, November 2004

Dealing with unexpected job conditions midway through a project is a challenge for any contractor, especially when there's not enough time or money to make the changes. Because of its extensive experience and by using creativity and management skills, Structural Preservation Systems, Inc. (SPS), one of the specialty contractors for Baltimore's historic Hippodrome Theater renovation, was able to meet the challenge head-on.

Concrete International, April 2003

When selected by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to renovate Fallingwater - one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous designs - VSL (a post-tensioning contractor) became part of a team focused on saving the ailing structure.

Southeast Construction Magazine, February 2002

A stately Miami tower, once a beacon of hope for more than a half-million Cuban refugees, inched toward the verge of collapse before its rescue by an immigrant family and team of restoration experts.

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Historic Structures - Preservation and Restoration

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