Restoration Update - Spring 2005
In the Spring, with nicer weather work was a lot easier. We even had snow
on Christmas Day '04 - the first time in recorded Louisiana History! So
the warmer weather was much welcomed. During the spring, the damaged sills
(large support beams) were replaced or reinforced by framing carpenters.
All floor and ceiling joists (smaller support beams) were installed.
A sample of the original brick mortar was
sent to a Washington, D.C.-based laboratory to determine the exact ratio of
components of mortar (primarily Mississippi River silt).
Masonry specialist determined a plan for re-pointing the brick walls and columns
of the basement (first) level of the home and for repairing the brick walls on
the second level (interior & exterior) which were damaged by falling beams from
the attic. Also it was determined that the 3 chimneys of the house will be
reinstituted, since they had previously been replaced with gas heaters in an
early 1900s renovation.
Norman began working on repairing the brick
courtyard to the rear of the main house, which was previously covered by the
kitchen. Since this wing was demolished and the top layer of soil was
removed, much of the original brickwork was uncovered.
A designed was also completed for the
Norman-truss roof system to be installed later in the year. At the same
time off-site, finishing carpenters began working on doors, windows, shutters,
moldings other fine trim work that can be installed at a later time after the
roof is in place.
Furniture restorers began working on some of the
damaged furniture pieces that could be salvaged.
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