The costs associated with stone restoration and repair depends on a number of factors specific to each individual project. Key factors to account for include: the type of stone, extent of the damage, size and complexity of the project, accessibility to the work, and more. All of which can lend to a wide range of prices depending on the project’s complexity. Restoration and conservation practices in stone masonry are crucial for preserving the aesthetic, integrity, and longevity of stone surfaces, employing methods like gentle cleaning, specialized solutions, grinding, honing, and sealing. The following considerations aid in understanding the costs associated with stone restoration however, for an accurate price naturally an analysis is required.
1) Historic Significance
In any restoration process, precaution and care are of the utmost importance. However, the level of historic significance will vary depending on the original artist, age of the stone, purpose of the piece, location, significance of the interior, and more. These qualities may affect the overall cost of the repair.
2) Type of Stone
Each stone requires a different maintenance relating to the variance of durability and based on their use application within the architecture or decoration. Typical stones found in historic interiors include: granite, marble, onyx, quartzite, limestone, and travertine, and cast stone. Each has unique characteristics that influence maintenance and restoration needs. Therefore, a practice comprehension of the materials is necessary in identifying damage, staining, aging, etc.
3) Complexity & Magnitude
The size and complexity of the project will affect the overall cost. While magnitude is relatively straight forward, complexity relates to the conservation approach and unique qualities of the stone, carving techniques, design, etc.
4) Underlying Structural Stability
The stability of the underlying structure may affect the cost of stone repair. Ensuring whether the weight bearing systems are up to date and functioning properly not only determines the security of the stone structure for use purposes but also the long-term preservation of the work. Depending on the scope, an engineer may be needed to assess the structural systems and depending on the suggestions, repairs or modifications may be required to secure the structure.
5) Type of Restoration Required/Extent of Damage
Specialized labor and materials needed to complete the project will depend on the scope. The following are general descriptions of different stone conservation projects:
a. Cleaning:
Overtime stone surfaces collect a layer of dirt and grime which can cause discoloration. This is easily rectified through a conservation program that of stone surfaces requires an understanding of the materials
b. Grinding:
When stone is damaged with scratches and imperfections. This process includes removing a layer from the surface of the stone to eliminate the damage. Since this approach is minorly invasive, it should be applied sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.
c. Honing:
Is a stone restoration process similar to grinding, albeit less invasive, which removes minor damages to achieve a matte finish.
d. Polishing:
Depending on the stone, its location, and its fragility, there are two options for polishing: chemical and mechanical. As is the case throughout the entire restoration/conservation, analysis of the stone and diagnosis determines the best approach.
e. Repair of Damages:
Areas of loss may be addressed in a variety of ways. This may require stone matching and carving to replace major losses or small infilling to support the structural integrity of the stone. Additionally depending on the location of the stone and the damage sustained, it may be possible to use faux painting or substitute material to repair. In certain cases, epoxy resins matched to the historic stones may be used to repair losses with significant effect.
6) Access
Depending on the location of the stone restoration, access may be required. If scaffolding or a lift is necessary, that will be one of the most significant costs. Getting an estimate for access is relatively simple, local representatives are readily available to visit the job site and provide a quote.
For projects located in public spaces, whether the work will take place during business or off hours.
Additionally, permits may be required depending on the work.
7) Regular Maintenance
Stone surfaces benefit from regular maintenance including routine cleaning to address staining and protect the integrity of the piece. Cleaning solutions and surface cleaning directions should be approved by stone conservators well versed in the history and material make-up of the subject. Further, periodic inspections to review the condition of the stone may be recommended by a conservator per the specific needs of the stone in order to ensure long term preservation.
Addressing restoration costs early on and maintaining regular maintenance will save money in the long-term preservation of stone.
Each restoration scope is tailored to the specific needs of the stone. For this reason, it is difficult to offer a general cost analysis. However, the following points should assist in understanding the basic cost breakdown for stone restoration. We would be happy to assist in developing an exact quote and answer any questions you may have. For inquiries of this nature, please contact Canning directly.
