Historic Paint Analysis Services
Uncover Hidden Period Decoration, Original Colors, and Unseen Finishes.
When working in historic buildings and structures, it isn't uncommon for there to be artistic details hidden just below the surface, covered over or otherwise original paint colors lost due to the passage of time. But knowing where to look to find these details and decoding and understanding exactly what has been found can be challenging for the uninitiated.
With decades of collective experience, John Canning & Co. has developed a reputation for exquisite workmanship, paired with incredibly high standards and the utmost professionalism, allowing our team to work on the restoration, preservation, and conservation of some of the country's most prestigious historic landmarks.
Our services are often requested by architects and owners to evaluate complex historic buildings and landmarks. We have built a reputation for being the go-to preservation problem-solvers for difficult situations in architectural arts. Our expertise, knowledge, and determination make us a perfect fit to dig deeper during investigations to uncover original campaigns for the most complex projects, in some cases uncovering 16 layers of paint/decoration.
We conduct a thorough analysis of all architectural finishes, especially paint through a variety of processes and techniques. Mechanical and chemical investigation reveals hidden layers; scientific analysis of layers and substrate is used to define original colors and finishes; and historical research of original documents, specifications, and period photographs contributes to confirming the patterns that have been revealed.
Our Historic Paint Analysis Process
1. Archival Research
We begin with thorough archival research, utilizing both primary and secondary sources such as historical documents, photographs, original specifications, and even oral interviews. This research helps to understand the historical context of the structure, guiding our analysis and ensuring that our findings are aligned with the building's history and significance.
2. Scientific Analysis of Samples
Next, we perform a detailed scientific analysis of paint samples. Using advanced equipment like microscopes, we examine the layers of paint to uncover the original colors and finishes used, providing us with crucial insights into the building’s past. This step is essential for revealing hidden layers and features that may not be visible to the naked eye.
3. On-Site Visual Inspection and Exposures
A key part of our process involves an on-site visual inspection and exposures. We examine the building in its current context to understand how the paint finishes correlate with other elements of the structure. This phase helps us identify additional finishes, details, including original decoration, and features that may not have been apparent during the analysis of samples alone. While laboratory analysis allows us to see the number of layers of overpaint and the significant color, an in-situ investigation and exposures can reveal the hand of the original artist, such as freehand details, stenciling, or faux finishes such as faux bois (woodgraining) or faux marbres (marblizing).
4. Interpretation & Report
Finally, we interpret our findings within the full context of the building's history, offering not just raw data but actionable insights. Our comprehensive report includes recommended next steps for architectural restoration or preservation efforts, ensuring that the findings are utilized effectively to maintain the authenticity and integrity of the structure.
We have found that many companies will conduct a paint analysis, run a report, and hand those findings over to the client without much context in terms of how those findings should be put into action.
At John Canning & Co., we pride ourselves on our ability to interpret our analysis in the context of the complete structure and its historic fabric. Understanding how colors work together, the role of light and shadow, and other components of the setting is critical to effectively putting the results of a paint analysis into action. Without this interpretation, the report is simply data, which can be difficult to act upon.
Who Is a Historic Paint Analysis For?
It can sometimes be difficult to know when it makes sense to undertake a historic paint and finish analysis. While no two situations are ever exactly the same, below are some common signs or reasons that building owners and architects might consider a paint analysis:
- You are planning work on a historic building in a region or location where other owners/architects have uncovered hidden or lost paintwork in the past.
- You have discovered hidden or covered-over artwork elsewhere on the property.
- Other work (for example, plasterwork or remodeling) has led to the discovery of decorative components.
- You have stumbled upon primary sources or other documentation alluding to, describing, or depicting various decorative elements not currently visible.
When Should I Do a Historic Paint Analysis?
A historic paint color analysis can be conducted at any point, but for the best results we recommend that it be completed as early as possible, ideally before any other structural or decorative work has begun. This will reduce the risk of damaging or destroying potential decorative elements hidden under the surface.
What’s the Cost of a Historic Paint Analysis?
The exact cost of a full analysis will vary depending on the volume of samples to be studied, the types of substrates involved, and a number of other factors. For that reason, it can be difficult to say what is “typical.” The best way to get an accurate picture of what costs would be involved with your project is to contact us directly.
Our Specialties
In addition to historic paint analysis and restoration, we specialize in a number of other complementary services, including:
Selected Projects
We carefully conserved and restored all aspects of the Luzerne County Courthouses historic fabric: marble, metal, plaster, paint, and mural artwork.
Our conservation team investigated and restored the decorative treatments of the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
John Canning Co. revealed original colors and decoration with an historic paint analysis, performed wood conservation at the Connecticut State House.
Our team of artisans were the restoration consultants and specialty contractors for the historic Stadium Theatre decoration and finishes.
Our team's historic paint analysis and interpretation defined the original colors and finishes of the State Theatre in Bay City, Michigan.
Our artisans were entrusted with the restoration and conservation of historic decorative painting and gilding originally designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Consider Historic Paint Analysis for My Building?
If you're restoring a historic building or uncovering lost design features, paint analysis helps identify original colors and finishes, preserving authenticity while guiding .
What is a Historic Paint Analysis?
A historic paint analysis is a detailed examination of the layers and colors of paint on historical buildings, helping to uncover original decorative elements, and providing insight into the history and evolution of the building’s design.
What Makes John Canning & Co. the Best Historic Paint Analysis Company?
John Canning & Co. is renowned for its decades of experience in historic restoration, providing in-depth, scientifically-backed paint analysis to uncover hidden period finishes. Our expert team combines archival research, on-site inspections, and advanced lab techniques to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Trusted by architects and preservationists throughout the United States, we’ve worked on some of the country’s most prestigious historical landmarks.
Can a Historic Paint Analysis Be Used for Small-Scale Restorations?
Yes, even smaller projects can benefit from historic paint analysis to ensure authenticity and accuracy in restoration or renovation work.
How Long Does a Historic Paint Analysis Take?
The duration of a historic paint analysis depends on the complexity of the project and the number of samples involved. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a several weeks to complete the analysis and deliver the report
