New York City contains an extraordinary concentration of historic masonry buildings -- from the brownstones and Beaux-Arts civic structures of the late nineteenth century to the terra cotta-clad commercial buildings of the early twentieth. Graciano Corporation has been trusted with restoration work on some of the city's most recognizable landmarks, and we bring that same level of attention to every historic project we take on.
Our Track Record in New York
Our work in New York has included some of the most demanding and visible restoration assignments in the country: Rockefeller Center, the New York Public Library, Grand Central Terminal's Oyster Bar, The Cloisters, Apollo Theater, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Central Synagogue, and MetLife Tower. This history gives us firsthand knowledge of the materials, working conditions, and coordination requirements that historic masonry restoration in New York demands.
What Historic Masonry Restoration Involves
Common Scope Items
- Tuckpointing and repointing with historically appropriate mortars
- Terra cotta restoration and replacement using matched units
- Brownstone and limestone repair and consolidation
- Masonry cleaning using reversible, non-destructive methods
- Ornamental detail repair and replacement
- Brick and stone unit replacement with material matching
- Stabilization and structural repair of deteriorated assemblies
- Coordination with preservation consultants and regulatory agencies
NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission and Historic Requirements
Work on New York City landmark buildings is subject to review and approval by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). We are experienced working within LPC guidelines and with the materials and methods the commission requires. Proper material analysis, reversibility, and compatibility with original construction are principles we apply as a matter of course, not as exceptions.
Why Historic Masonry Requires Specialist Expertise
Historic masonry buildings were built with materials that behave differently from modern construction. Soft lime mortars, hand-molded brick, cut stone, and ornamental terra cotta each have specific properties that must be understood before repairs are made. Using incompatible materials -- overly hard mortars, inappropriate sealers, or abrasive cleaning methods -- can cause irreversible damage that worsens the condition of the building over time. Our craftsmen are trained in period-appropriate techniques and materials selection.
Why Choose Graciano for New York Historic Masonry
- Over 100 years of masonry restoration experience, including work dating to the city's landmark era
- Proven track record on major NYC landmark and institutional projects
- Expertise in historic mortar formulation and material matching
- Experience with LPC and historic preservation review processes
- Woman-owned, WBENC-certified business
- Offices in Pittsburgh PA, New York NY, and Florida