Preservation Problem Solvers |
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At John Canning & Co., our reputation as leaders in architectural preservation is built on our ability to solve complex problems with creativity and precision in a trade-like manner. This month, we are excited to share insights from two significant projects that showcase our ongoing commitment to innovative problem-solving: our current work at a private Institution and one of our past restoration projects at Michigan State Capitol.
Current Project: Private Institution
Our latest project at a private institution, an architectural gem from the early 1970s, exemplifies our problem-solving resourcefulness. The building is known for its distinctive mid-century modern design and open studio space, which recently encountered a challenge when many tectum ceiling panels were damaged because of an accidental cutting incident involving a roofing project. Tectum panels manufactured by Armstrong, are a part of roof deck systems, designed for sloped ceilings with excellent acoustic properties. Made from compressed wood fiber, these panels enhance both sound quality and structural efficiency. The straight saw cuts in the panels disrupted the visual harmony of this modern space. While these saw cuts were not structurally affecting the ceiling, they did hinder the visual integrity. The damage was clearly apparent from the floor level, disrupting the aesthetic flow.
Canning was asked to assess the damage and recommend repairs without full replacement. Each tile sustained a single, straight cut, parallel to the short side, varying in length. The panel construction was mounted to the metal roof deck with cement, making their removal a major demolition task. Replacing them would involve significant costs and time, which is critical given the time-sensitive need of the space.
Since the damage was purely cosmetic, with no structural issues, we had to get creative. Our team devised a clever solution, similar to a "MacGyver" approach: we filled the cuts with a flexible adhesive quality filler, carefully smoothed it to match the texture of the tiles. While the adhesive was wet we reapplied Tectum wood fibers, followed with in-painting to blend seamlessly with the existing surface. We successfully filled and smoothed the cuts to match the original texture, seamlessly camouflaging the damage.
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View of the damage found on the ceiling tiles. |
| This photo captures the view of the ceiling. |
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This project underscores our dedication as preservation problem solvers who not only repair but also innovate. At John Canning & Co., we don’t just repair—we assess, innovate, and implement solutions that honor the original design while meeting modern needs. Our deep understanding of architectural history and material science allows us to approach each project with both precision and creativity.
Our work at this private institution is a testament to why we are trusted experts for some of the most significant architectural landmarks. We are dedicated to preserving the past and ensuring that architectural heritage remains elegant and functional for future generations. Michigan State Capitol: A Historic Restoration Achievement
In 2015, John Canning & Co. completed a major restoration project at the Michigan State Capitol, a neoclassical building designed by Elijah Myers and completed in 1878. The Capitol’s interior features elaborate stencil patterns, wood graining, faux marble, trompe l’oeil artwork, ornamental plaster, and whimsical textured plaster.
As leading plastering specialists in the U.S., we were brought in to identify the cause of the plaster failure and evaluate whether stabilization was feasible compared to the alternative demolition and replacement. We were able to effectively put into place a plan that would restore the historic fabric of the space, avoiding the need to undergo demolition. The project’s main challenge involved the Capitol’s highly decorative plaster ceilings, which were detaching from their structural supports. This posed significant safety concerns and risked the preservation of this National Landmark. Our objectives were clearly defined:
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1. Secure the ceilings to address safety concerns. 2. Protect the historic fabric from further damage.
3. Employ the least invasive methods possible. 4. Create methods to stabilize the structure from below the plaster ceiling, as access from above is not possible. |
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We devised a strategy to stabilize the ceiling while preserving as much of the original decorative finishes, avoiding demolition. The ceiling, with three coats of plaster and adorned with intricate hand-painted gold decorations, had shifted from their supports, resulting in visible stress cracks, and drooping. The plaster assembly consisted of wood lath secured to 1-inch by 3-inch furring, which was then attached to joists with cut nails. Cut nails lack the friction and grip of modern screws, leading them to back out of their original positions over time, with no way to prevent this from happening. Some nails were either completely backed out or had never been properly fastened to the wood layers. As each nail loosened, the ceiling's weight shifted to the remaining nails, creating a domino effect that caused the ceiling to droop. The failure of one cut nail increased the load on adjacent nails, leading to their failure as well. Consequently, the plaster sagged up to 5½ inches due to inadequate support.
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This photo depicts a stress crack in the ceiling. |
| This photo shows the extent of the ceiling detaching from structural supports, with a sag measuring just over 5 inches in the center, along with some visible stress cracks, while the wooden beam remains perfectly level. |
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The ceiling’s condition included pronounced drooping, stress cracks, and visible plaster deflection. To understand the full extent of the issue, we utilized a digital borescope—a sophisticated camera equipped with a light—that allowed us to inspect the hidden structural elements behind the ceiling and assess the cause of the failure. Utilizing this tool allowed us to visibly see the cut nails completely backed out by sometimes two inches or more, observing various degrees of the issue. The borescope proved to be an indispensable tool throughout the restoration. It facilitated real-time monitoring of the reattachment process and enabled precise deployment of fastenings. With the use of the borescope, we were able to map out the entire ceiling structure which allowed us to locate every furring strip and joist. This allowed us to install new fasteners at each location, which were countersunk into the plaster. |
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Here we are observing the ceiling going back into position using the borescope and looking for potential obstructions as we slowly raise up the ceiling with posts and refastening with modern screws. |
| Here we can see that the original nail missed the joist and see a modern attempt to secure the ceiling using Tapcon screws likely from an earlier restoration. |
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To address the sagging, we implemented a methodical approach involving adjustable steel posts and beams. Over several days, these supports gradually adjusted to lift the the ceiling back into its original position. Once the ceiling was properly aligned, we strategically installed high Tensile strength wood screws at specific points to provide the necessary support. The borescope played a crucial role in verifying that in real time screws and original cut nails were correctly aligned through all layers of wood, ensuring a stable and secure reattachment. It also provided verification that the cut nails would return to their respective nail hole. Since the cut nails no longer provided adequate support, the borescope was crucial since we now relied on heavy-duty screws to handle the load of the ceiling.
The successful stabilization of the ceiling not only addressed the sagging issue but also closed the stress cracks and mitigated the risk of future cracks. With the structural integrity restored, we proceeded with inpainting the original decorative elements where necessary. This comprehensive and detailed approach preserved the Capitol’s historic fabric, ensuring both safety and longevity while maintaining the aesthetic beauty of this iconic landmark. When we returned to the Michigan Capitol to assist with the rotunda restoration we confirmed that nine years later the ceiling remains stable and cracks remain undetected.
A Legacy of Problem Solving
Both our current efforts at the private institution and our past restoration work at Michigan State Capitol emphasize our commitment to solving preservation challenges with ingenuity and expertise. These projects are just a couple examples of our problem solving abilities at John Canning & Co., where we not only repair but innovate—approaching each project with a deep understanding of architectural history and materials to achieve the best possible outcomes. |
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A friendly reminder about our sponsorship of the upcoming Traditional Building Conference, scheduled for October 23-24th at the Trustees Garden, Charles H. Morris Center, Savannah, GA. This premier event features AIA registered courses by industry experts and practitioners to deliver focused, relevant education and training for architects, contractors, craftspeople, designers, building owners, and facilities managers. David Riccio, president and one of the principals of Canning, will be presenting an AIA course on October 24th on the topic of historic plaster conservation, restoration and preservation. This October, join us at the Annual Preservation Conference as we present in Rocky Mount and Tarboro. David will be presenting at the NC Preservation Annual Conference on October 17th during one of the educational sessions, that will focus on the topic of Stabilization for Beautification.
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We understand the importance in sharing our expertise and knowledge in our field. Besides the monthly newsletter and blogs we post, we also develop and share downloadable resources to help guide you in your conservation, preservation and restoration projects. Check out the Resources page and see if any of the resources can help answer some of your questions and provide a better understanding of some of the intricacies in the preservation field.
Check out our Featured Downloadable Resource below. |
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The Association for Preservation Technology (APT) is the premier cross-disciplinary organization dedicated to promoting the best technology for conserving historic structure and their settings.
APTI 2024
November 12-16, Montreal, Quebec |
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As a national nonprofit preservation organization, the National Trust for Historic Preservation works to save America's historic places and is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more or get involved. | | | The American Institute for Conservation and the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation work together to promote the preservation and protection of cultural heritage. Partner with us to further that mission. |
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