Blue Tarp is Gone, Blue Tape is Here!
Thanks to a generous (and anonymous) gift, a minor flashing problem on the roof of the Pope-Leighey House was repaired earlier in the spring of 2011. To our regulars, this meant ”farewell to the blue tarp”!
Soon after, however, work began on an important investigation of the exterior cypress siding. Wright left no specific instructions on how to care for the outside of this Usonian house. We don’t know whether he anticipated the silvery appearance of the siding as it aged, or if he wanted it to remain “new looking.” Over the structure’s 70-year lifetime, several different methods have been employed to preserve the wood, to deter insects and to moderate the visual contrast between the heavily weathered areas (where the siding is most exposed to wind, sun and rain) and the more protected areas under the eaves and carport. Recently, the appearance of insect damage and some raised grain in the wood prompted National Trust staff to pursue a detailed professional investigation of the condition of the siding and studies to determine how best to preserve the material — and Wright’s vision.
First, an assessment study was conducted by conservators at Jablonski Building Conservation, Inc.. Following upon the recommendations of that expert report, The National Trust initiated restoration of damaged exterior wood siding and soffits. That painstaking work is being performed by the experienced craftspeople of Oak Grove Restoration Company. Simultaneously, conservator Pamela Kirschner (who has worked on many Wright structures before) has been evaluating cleaning materials and methods and analyzing both documentary and material evidence for guidance as to the best preservative coating for the exterior of the house. Thanks to our “family” of fellow Usonians for sharing their experiences and experiments with us!
Visitors over the next few months will notice blue tape with cryptic markings dotting the outside of the house. That’s where test panels are being evaluated to ensure that the materials and methods that look best at first glance still look that way after prolonged exposure to the sun, wind, rain and whatever other substances man and nature dash against its walls over the cycle of the seasons.
This project is funded by Save America’s Treasures and by the Historic Sites Fund of The National Trust for Historic Preservation. The project is being managed by Elizabeth Milnarik, Ph.D., AIA, Associate Architect of The National Trust.
