Name: Historic Porch Restoration – Friendship House

Location: Lower East Side, WI, built in 1855

Challenges:
There was loose, peeling and flaking paint around the front porch and pedestals. The original columns were collapsing from the weight of the roof and needed to be rebuilt as well as the bottoms were splitting from the weight. The roof was falling due to the extreme weight on the columns. The curved dwarf walls were previously replaced with plywood and was not a good solution if left exposed to the elements. Some seams were already glued up which could cause it to expand and retain water. Pedestals in the front were deteriorating, splitting, and needed underlaying repairs to support the beams and framing of the porch itself. 

Solutions:
To kick off the project, we meticulously prepared the site using lead-safe protocols, ensuring a clean and safe work environment. Every surface— from the columns, pedestals, and curved dwarf walls— was sanded using our specialized scuff-sanding technique. 

Next, we inspected the wood with care. Damaged or weathered areas were repaired with durable epoxy to halt further erosion and enhance paint adhesion. For pieces too deteriorated to save, we replaced them with Accoya, a high-performance wood that guarantees longevity. Then we addressed the roof, we raised it to release the pressure on the new restored columns to prevent collapsing, and new bracings were built for the columns. Any splits were taken care of through elastic exterior caulk which will expand and contract with the seasons.

Once repairs were complete, we applied a peel-stop primer to create a smooth, cohesive surface, ensuring the new finish adhered flawlessly. Finally, we completed the process with two coats of Sherwin Williams Emerald paint, carefully chosen to match the original color scheme that way it blended in seamlessly to the style around it. 

Outcome:
The home’s historical character was fully preserved while improving its structural integrity and functionality. The restored columns, roof, walls and pedestals blend seamlessly with the home’s architectural style, ensuring it can stand for many more decades.