Martin Library York, PA

Project Background

The Witmer Group was asked to provide a formal proposal for the restoration/preservation work needed that would restore the Martin Library to its original stature.

The exterior walls were thoroughly investigated for stability and soundness, along with calculating the extent and depth of the brownstone deterioration. Upon our investigation, we found the building to be structurally sound but rapidly deteriorating in many areas. Most of the concern included repointing of the mortar in the brownstone and brick veneers, along with the major deterioration of the brownstone veneer. Weathering, age induced decline, pollutants, and acid rain had accelerated the breakdown of the veneer materials.

Photos and documentation were taken for all brick and brownstone features to enable exact matching of replacement brownstone. All veneer pieces were properly sized for potential replacement as needed. A complete face lift of the Market Street elevation was conducted and major repointing of the east and west elevations. The Market Street elevation included the replacement of 138 pieces of brownstone in 38 different profiles, shapes, and sizes. The weight of the new brownstone pieces ranged from 8 pounds to 2600 pounds. Other tasks performed included sculpturing of original stone profiles with historic mortar materials, cleaning, repointing, and installing coatings, consolidants and water repellents.

Our skilled team received the 2018 Historic York Preservation Award for our services. It was truly an honor to perform all restoration/preservation work, along with seeing the library come back to life for the York community.