The University will begin construction on the deteriorating mortar on the exterior stone walls of the University Chapel's bell tower this summer, starting in early June and continuing until the following December.
The deterioration of the mortar is not an "imminent danger, but it does need to be addressed now," said historical preservation project manager Jody Lahendro.
Despite the fact that there is no immediate danger, in accordance with the current building code, a wooden safety fence is being erected 15 feet around the perimeter of the bell tower to ensure pedestrian safety, according to a press release from project manager Lynn Rush.
The effort, named the Chapel Bell Tower Roofing and Masonry Repair Project, will include repairs to the mortar on the stone exterior walls of the tower, as well as roof and ventilation repairs, Rush said.
"There are a lot of moisture problems right now," Rush explained.
To ensure the historic integrity of the building, which was originally designed in 1883, the construction plans are being prepared with consultation from an architectural preservation firm, as well as a historic preservation masonry contractor, according to the release.
"We recognize the chapel is a significant, important and historic aspect to the University, and we will ensure that the historic character of the building was understood, respected and then restored as we do the repair work," Lahendro said.
While some of the mortar will be replaced without removing the stones, a few of the stones at the top will be taken out, he said. After those stones are removed, they will be numbered, catalogued and then stored until they are returned to their positions with new mortar.
"The critical thing will be matching the existing mortar color and texture as closely as possible," Rush said.
The current binding in the mortar at the top of the bell tower is "losing binding power," Lahendro said, as the lime has become soluble due to rain exposure. This caused the lime to be brought to the surface and then deposited on the outside of the stone, leaving a white residue, Lahendro said. These stones will be cleaned after they are removed, he added.
Despite the expected six-month duration of the construction, Rush said it will not interfere with wedding reservations or use of the chapel.
"The chapel will still be operational and weddings will still be going on," Rush said.
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