Drexel University Main Building

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Client: Gilbane Building Company

Design Team:

• Architect: Vitetta
• Structural Engineer: Macintosh Engineering

This project encompassed the comprehensive restoration of three architecturally significant buildings on Drexel University’s campus: the Main Building, Randell Hall, and Curtis Hall. The work focused on preserving historic masonry and architectural elements while improving the performance and longevity of the building envelopes.

Key Services Delivered:

• Masonry Restoration:
  • Full repointing of terra cotta and granite joints, and partial repointing of brick and limestone across all elevations.
  • Repair of structural and non-structural cracks in terra cotta, stone, and brick using injection, patching, and pinning techniques.
  • Replacement of missing or spalled masonry units with cast stone Dutchman repairs and composite patch materials.
• Sealant Replacement:
  • Removal and replacement of perimeter sealants at all windows and joints between dissimilar materials.
  • Installation of new sealants around architectural cramps and at base joints to ensure watertight conditions.
• Specialty Cleaning:
  • General masonry cleaning across all elevations.
  • Targeted cleaning of terra cotta surfaces to remove biological growth, efflorescence, and legacy anti-bird treatments.
• Copper Cresting Restoration (Randell Hall):
  • Repair of cracks and open joints in the lion cresting.
  • Application of waterproofing to the rear face only, preserving the historic copper finish.
• Historic Window Restoration (Main Building Auditorium):
  • Restoration of wood windows including paint stripping, priming, painting, glazing putty replacement, and sash realignment.
  • Repair of decorative wood elements and replacement of ferrous anchors with stainless steel.
• Architectural Enhancements:
  • Repair and repainting of metal and wood panels beneath windows.
  • Re-tooling of granite base elements and installation of new flashing and drainage systems at parapet walls.

This restoration project reflects a commitment to architectural preservation, technical precision, and long-term building stewardship, reinforcing Drexel University’s historic campus identity.

Article: Main Building Being Repaired, Cleaned Under Scaffolding