The key to the successful rehabilitation of wooden storefronts
is a careful evaluation of existing physical conditions. Moisture,
vandalism, insect attack, and lack of maintenance can all contribute
to the deterioration of wooden storefronts.
 Rather than replace an entire wooden storefront, a new wooden component can be pieced-in, as seen in this column base. Photo: NPS files. |
Paint failure should
not be mistakenly interpreted as a sign that the wood is in poor
condition and therefore irreparable. Wood is frequently in sound
physical condition beneath unsightly paint. An ice pick or awl
may be used to test wood for soundness--decayed wood that is jabbed
will lift up in short irregular pieces; sound wood will separate
in long fibrous splinters.
Repair and Replacement of Wood
Storefronts showing signs of physical deterioration can often
be repaired using simple methods. Partially decayed wood can be
patched, built up, chemically treated or consolidated and then
painted to achieve a sound condition, good appearance, and greatly
extended life.
To repair wood showing signs of rot, it is advisable to dry the
wood; carefully apply a fungicide such as pentachlorophenol (a
highly toxic substance) to all decayed areas; then treat with
2 or 3 applications of boiled linseed oil (24 hours between applications).
Afterward, fill cracks and holes with putty; caulk the joints
between the various wooden members; and finally prime and paint
the surface.
Partially decayed wood may also be strengthened and stabilized
by consolidation, using semirigid epoxies which saturate porous
decayed wood and then harden. The consolidated wood can then be
filled with a semirigid epoxy patching compound, sanded and painted.
More information on epoxies can be found in the publication "Epoxies
for Wood Repairs in Historic Buildings," cited in the bibliography.
Where components of wood storefronts are so badly deteriorated
that they cannot be stabilized, it is possible to replace the
deteriorated parts with new pieces. These techniques
all require skill and some expense, but are recommended in cases
where decorative elements, such as brackets or pilasters, are
involved. In some cases, missing edges can be filled and rebuilt
using wood putty or epoxy compounds. When the epoxy cures, it
can be sanded smooth and painted to achieve a durable and waterproof
repair.
"Rehabilitating Historic Storefronts" an Historic Preservation Brief
